Why Is My Dryer Not Heating?
Table of Contents
It’s a frustration many have encountered – you load your wet laundry, set the dryer, and… nothing. No comforting warmth, just cool air. A dryer without heat is just a spinning machine with a fan. Sure, it will eventually dry your clothes, but it will take a whole lot longer to do so without heat. While lint buildup is the most common culprit for a dryer not heating properly, various internal components could also be at fault.
Reasons Why Your Dryer Is Not Heating and How To Fix Them
Though the dryer might seem like a basic appliance, modern ones have numerous elements working together. If any of these components falter, your dryer may lose its ability to produce heat, leaving you with damp clothes.
Dryer Is Set to ‘Eco-Mode’
Today’s eco-conscious world brings energy-saving modes even to dryers. If your dryer isn’t heating as expected, check if it’s set to Eco-Mode. This energy-efficient setting reduces power, potentially leading to cooler drying cycles. Perhaps someone in your home switched the setting without you realizing it. Since this reason is so simple, it’s a good place to start.
Circuit Breaker Tripped
Electrical surges or other issues can trip the circuit breaker, causing your dryer to lose power. If your dryer is plugged in but doesn’t turn on, it’s worth looking at your breaker box. To reset your breaker, flip the switch to “off” and then back to “on.”
Thermostat or Thermal Fuse is Broken
The thermostat and the thermal fuse ensure your dryer heats safely and efficiently. A malfunction in either could be the reason for the cool air. These safety components monitor and regulate temperature, preventing potential fire hazards. Many modern dryers won’t heat if these components aren’t working. If you suspect this to be the issue, contacting an appliance technician is best.
Heating Element is Broken
Your dryer’s heating element is the real star of the show. Without it, there’s no heat. It’s as simple as that. This component isn’t about safety; it’s purely for heating. If it fails, you’ll likely need a replacement to get things warmed up again.
The Lint Trap is Clogged
One of the simplest yet overlooked issues is a clogged lint trap. A full trap can hinder airflow and diminish the efficiency of the heating element. Always ensure you’re clearing out that lint after every cycle.
Dryer Vent is Clogged
A clogged vent is the most common reason for a dryer not heating. As lint accumulates over time, it can block the vent, leading to inefficient drying and potential safety hazards. Not only can this prevent proper heating, but it can also increase the risk of fires.
Schedule a Dryer Vent Inspection & Cleaning With The Mad Hatter
A clogged dryer vent is not something to be taken lightly. By scheduling a dryer vent inspection and cleaning with The Mad Hatter, you can determine if your dryer isn’t heating because the dryer vent is clogged. Dryer vents should be inspected at least once a year, so this is a good practice to get into, even if it’s not the cause of your faulty dryer.
FAQ About Why A Dryer Won't Heat
How do I know if my dryer thermal fuse is blown?
If your dryer suddenly stops running or doesn’t produce any heat, a blown thermal fuse might be the culprit. To confirm, you can test the fuse with a multimeter for continuity. If it doesn’t have continuity, it’s blown and needs replacement.
Why is my dryer blowing cold air?
Several reasons could cause a dryer to blow cold air, including a set ‘Eco-Mode’, a tripped circuit breaker, a malfunctioning thermostat or thermal fuse, a broken heating element, or a clogged lint trap or dryer vent.
Will a dryer still run if the thermal fuse is blown?
Most dryers will not run if the thermal fuse is blown. The fuse acts as a safety device, preventing the dryer from operating if temperatures get dangerously high. If the fuse is blown, the dryer might turn on but won’t heat or run its cycle.
How do I know if my dryer has a bad heating element?
If your dryer is turning on and spinning but not producing any heat, a faulty heating element could be the reason. You can check this by visually inspecting the element for any breakage or damage or by using a multimeter to test it for continuity.
What to do if my dryer vent is clogged?
If you suspect a clogged dryer vent, first clean out the lint trap. If the issue persists, consider scheduling a dryer vent inspection and cleaning with professionals like The Mad Hatter. A clogged vent can pose a fire hazard, so it’s essential to address it promptly.