Dryer is turning the drum but there is no heat to dry the clothes. This fault can be caused by a multitude of different components that may have failed. It can also be the result of a clogged dryer vent hose. Follow the steps in order below to fix your dryer that will not heat. NOTE: If you live in an older home, you may have a fuse box. Check to be sure the issue you are having is not being caused by a blown fuse.
Clothes Dryer Troubleshooting:
1. CHECK DRYER CONTROLS
Check that the dryer is not on “AIR FLUFF” mode.
If your dryer is on the correct setting then move to step 2.
2. CHECK AIR FLOW/VENT
Check to be sure dryer vent hose is not clogged and restricting airflow. If so, how to clean dryer vent hose.
If your dryer vent hose is not clogged and the dryer is able to properly vent out the air move to step 3.
3. CHECK POWER
Be sure you know how to use a multimeter to check for power before attempting this.
Remove power by unplugging the dryer cord from the wall.
Check for 220/240V across the two hot legs.
Check for 110/120V from neutral to each hot leg.
If you have the correct power voltage going to your dryer then move to step 4.
4. CHECK COMPONENTS
Remove power by unplugging the dryer cord from the wall before testing for continuity.
Thermal fuse – check for continuity
Thermal cutoff – check for continuity
Heating element – check for continuity
Operating thermostat – check for continuity
High limit thermostat – check for continuity
How to use a multimeter to check for continuity
When you check continuity on the above parts, remove a wire from the part so you do not read back through a different path.
If everything above has tested OK, then look for the wiring diagram that should be inside the control panel or find your service manual. This will tell you if certain contacts should be open or closed during different drying cycle settings.
Note: The troubleshooting method above will work on all electric dryers. Maytag, Whirlpool, Samsung, GE, LG, Roper, Frigidaire, Kenmore, Bosch, Hotpoint, Haier, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux…
Written by Keith Schneerer
Certified Appliance Tech · Founder, RemoveAndReplace.com
Keith has spent 30+ years repairing machines, starting as a military mechanic and later maintaining food processing equipment before moving into appliance repair. He founded RemoveAndReplace.com to share field-tested repair advice.
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Cassie,
Have you checked the control board for loose wire harnesses or burnt areas? If everything you have described that you have done was replaced correctly, check the control board.
-RR
My Samsung dryer is not heating and it shuts itself off after a few minutes. I have replaced the thermostat, fuse , element and the cord. I have also cleaned out the lint from everywhere and checked the fuse box. What could still be the issue here?
Michael,
Have you tested with a meter that you are getting 240V, or assuming that since the breaker is 240V? Would also throw in there to look at all wires in dryer and trace each one to see if there is wire issue.
-RR
It has 240 volts coming in. It does have 2 breakers (locked together). Wires are connected. I tested the timer and found no faults. Venting system clear. At the end of my rope. Any more advice?
Michael Fall,
Have you checked what the voltage is coming into your dryer? Also, it may be that your breaker is faulty or it has 2 breakers for the dryer. Two 110V breakers instead of one 220V or 240V breaker. Have you made sure the venting system is clean and clear? Have you tested or checked to be sure all wiring harnesses are connected to the controls? A loose wire can cause your issue also. Let us know and we can assist further if needed.
-RR
I have an Estate dryer model # 1106072010. I have replaced the high limit thermostat, cycling thermostat, heating element, and the thermal fuse. It still will not heat. What should I do next?
Max,
If you have tested every single part that allows your dryer to heat, but it is still not heating, you may have a wiring issue. Check all wiring and if applicable make sure wiring harnesses are tight and secure. Have you checked the thermal fuse at the back of your dryer? Are you getting the proper voltage to the dryer? Could there be an issue with the electrical plug? Is the control panel and timer working properly? Check the wiring behind the knob and display to be sure all wires are secure.
-RR