Common Reasons Your Dryer Isn’t Heating and How to Fix Them

Kris EscuetaFebruary 13, 20250

A dryer that isn’t heating can be frustrating, especially when you expect warm air to dry your clothes efficiently. Fortunately, there are a few common reasons behind this issue, and many of them are straightforward to troubleshoot without calling a technician.

Possible Causes for a Dryer Not Heating

1. Incorrect Settings: Double-check your dryer’s controls. Some settings, like “Air Dry” or “Delicate,” are designed to skip the heating element to protect fabrics. Ensure you’ve selected the correct cycle for the load.

2. Power Supply Issues: Electric dryers require a steady 240-volt power supply to operate the heating element. A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse could result in insufficient power, leaving the dryer unable to heat.

3. Lint Blockages: Lint buildup in the dryer or its venting system can restrict airflow, which might cause overheating. Overheating can, in turn, trigger the thermal fuse to blow or create other operational problems.

4. Blown Thermal Fuse: This safety feature cuts power to the heating circuit in electric dryers or the motor circuit in gas dryers if the appliance overheats. A blown thermal fuse will prevent the dryer from heating.

5. Malfunctioning Thermostat: The thermostat regulates the dryer’s temperature. If it’s not working properly, the dryer may fail to reach or maintain the desired heat level.

6. Heating Element Issues (Electric Models): The heating element may be damaged or burned out. When this happens, it won’t generate the heat needed for drying.

7. Igniter Problems (Gas Models): A faulty igniter may not glow, or it may not be strong enough to ignite the gas. This prevents the dryer from producing heat.

8. Defective Gas Valve Solenoids (Gas Models): These solenoids control the flow of gas to the burner. If they fail, the gas won’t ignite, and the dryer will stay cool.

9. Gas Supply Problems (Gas Models): Issues like a disconnected, kinked, or damaged gas line, or even a gas leak, can disrupt the dryer’s ability to heat.

10. Faulty Flame Sensor (Gas Models): The flame sensor ensures that the burner ignites properly. If it’s dirty or malfunctioning, it may shut off the gas prematurely, preventing heat production.

Staying Safe While Troubleshooting

Before attempting any maintenance or repairs, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Follow these precautions to minimize risks:

Disconnect Power: Unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker before working on the appliance. This eliminates the risk of electric shock.
Cool Down First: Allow the dryer to cool completely if it has recently been used.
Shut Off the Gas Supply: For gas dryers, ensure the gas line is closed to prevent leaks.
Work Slowly and Carefully: Take your time to avoid injuries or accidental damage.
Maintain a Clean Workspace: Keep your work area free from clutter, and ensure it’s well-lit.
Keep Others Away: Make sure children and pets are not in the work area.
Dry Hands Only: Never handle electrical components with wet hands.

Check Your User Manual: Refer to the appliance’s manual for specific troubleshooting or replacement instructions.
Document Connections: Take photos or make notes of wiring connections before disassembling anything. This will make reassembly easier.
Handle Parts Gently: Avoid using excessive force to prevent damage or injury.
Wear Protective Gear: Use insulated gloves to shield your hands from sharp edges and debris.
Avoid Live Voltage Testing: If you need to check electrical components, use a multimeter only if you’re confident in your ability to prevent short circuits.

How to Troubleshoot a Samsung Dryer That Cools Instead of Heats

1. Check the Dryer’s Settings

Ensure the settings match the type of load.
Verify the dryer is not set to “air dry” or another non-heating mode.
Adjust the settings and restart the cycle.

2. Check the Power Supply (Electric Models)

Confirm the dryer is plugged into a 240-volt outlet.
Inspect the plug and cord for damage like fraying or burn marks.
Check the electrical panel for tripped breakers; reset if needed.
Remove the back panel and inspect the terminal block for damage.
Test the voltage using a multimeter:
- L1 to L2: Look for 240V.
- L1 to Neutral and L2 to Neutral: Look for 120V each.
Contact an electrician if voltage readings are incorrect.

3. Inspect the Lint Filter

Remove the lint filter and clean it thoroughly with a soft brush or water.
Shine a flashlight into the lint trap housing and vacuum any debris.
Reinsert the clean, dry filter.

4. Check the Dryer Vent

Disconnect the vent hose and inspect it for blockages or kinks.
Clean the vent and hose using a vacuum or vent brush.
Inspect the external vent for obstructions and remove debris.
Reconnect the hose and run a test cycle to confirm airflow.

5. Test the Thermal Fuse

Disconnect the dryer from power.
Locate the thermal fuse, typically on the back panel or blower housing.
Remove the wires from the fuse terminals.
Test the fuse with a multimeter:
- A reading near 0 indicates the fuse is functional.
- Replace the fuse if the reading is infinite (“OL”).

6. Check the Heating Element (Electric Models)

Disconnect the dryer from power.
Remove the back or front panel to access the heating element.
Inspect the element for visible damage like breaks or burn marks.
Test the heating element with a multimeter:
- A resistance reading of 10–50 Ohms indicates functionality.
- Replace the element if the reading is 0 or infinite.

7. Test the Cycling Thermostat

Disconnect the dryer from power.
Locate the cycling thermostat and detach its wires.
Test the bias heater terminals for resistance according to manufacturer specifications.
Check continuity on the thermostat terminals:
- Replace the thermostat if it shows no continuity or incorrect resistance.

8. Test the Gas Valve Solenoids (Gas Models)

Unplug the dryer and locate the solenoids on the burner assembly.
Disconnect the wires and test resistance:
- Two-prong coil: 1,000–1,300 Ohms.
- Three-prong coil: 1,000–1,300 Ohms (prongs 1 & 2) and 500–600 Ohms (prongs 1 & 3).
Replace solenoids if readings are incorrect.

9. Test the Igniter (Gas Models)

Ensure the gas supply is on and the line is clear.
Inspect the igniter for visible damage like cracks or discoloration.
Test the igniter with a multimeter for 120V AC during a heating cycle.
Observe if the igniter glows. Replace it if it doesn’t function correctly.

10. Test the Flame Sensor (Gas Models)

Unplug the dryer and locate the flame sensor near the burner assembly.
Disconnect the wires and test for continuity with a multimeter:
- A beeping sound indicates functionality.
- Replace the flame sensor if it lacks continuity.

Preventative Maintenance Tips for Your Dryer

Regular maintenance can help prevent heating issues and extend your dryer’s lifespan. Here are some tips to keep it in optimal condition:

Clean the Lint Trap After Every Load: A clogged lint trap can restrict airflow and lead to overheating, which may damage the dryer’s components.
Inspect and Clean the Vent System: Every few months, check the dryer vent hose and exterior vent cap for lint buildup. Use a vacuum or dryer vent cleaning kit to remove obstructions.
Avoid Overloading the Dryer: Overloading can strain the motor and heating system, leading to uneven drying and potential malfunctions.
Use the Right Dryer Settings: Match the cycle to your laundry load. Avoid using high heat unnecessarily, as it can wear out the heating element over time.
Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance: A professional technician can perform a comprehensive check of your dryer to identify and address potential issues before they become significant problems.

If your dryer isn’t heating, you don’t need to panic—or immediately call for help. With a little know-how, many common issues can be identified and resolved right at home. From checking simple settings to inspecting parts like thermal fuses or heating elements, a bit of troubleshooting can save time and money.

Of course, safety comes first. Always unplug the dryer and follow precautions before diving into repairs. And if you hit a snag or feel unsure, reaching out to a qualified technician is always a smart move.

Remember, a little care and attention can help keep your dryer reliable for years to come. Why let your laundry pile up when the fix might be just a quick check away?