When your dryer stops heating, laundry day can quickly turn into a headache. But don’t panic just yet—many heating issues can be diagnosed and even fixed at home with minimal tools and a bit of know-how. Here’s what you need to check before you pick up the phone and call a technician.
What You Might Need:
- Screwdriver (Philips or flat-head)
- Flashlight
- Vacuum or lint brush
- Multimeter (optional but helpful)
- Gloves (for hot or dusty components)
Can you fix it yourself?
In many cases—yes. But if these steps don’t work or you’re uncomfortable with electrical components, it’s best to contact a dryer repair technician.
1. Check the Power Supply (Especially if It’s an Electric Dryer)
The issue:
Electric dryers require a full 240V to produce heat, even though they can still spin on 120V. If one breaker trips, the drum turns but doesn’t heat.
How to fix it:
Head to your circuit breaker panel and check if the dryer’s breaker is fully engaged. Flip it off and back on to reset. Still nothing? Try another outlet (if it’s a compact dryer) or test with a multimeter. If you smell burning or hear humming, call a technician.
2. Clean Out the Lint Filter—Properly
The issue:
Lint buildup restricts airflow. With limited ventilation, the dryer overheats and shuts off the heating element to prevent fires.
How to fix it:
Remove the lint screen and clean it thoroughly. Then, take a vacuum or lint brush and clean inside the slot where the screen sits. Do this after every load—seriously. Also check for waxy buildup if you use dryer sheets.
3. Inspect the Dryer Vent Hose
The issue:
If the vent hose behind your dryer is crushed, blocked, or full of lint, it can’t expel hot air. That can cause the dryer to overheat and cut off the heat.
How to fix it:
Pull the dryer away from the wall and inspect the hose. If it’s kinked, straighten it. Detach it and look inside—use a vacuum or dryer vent brush to clear debris. If it’s more than 8 feet long, consider shortening it to improve airflow.
4. Double-Check Your Dryer Settings
The issue:
Yes, it sounds obvious—but selecting a no-heat cycle like “Fluff Air” or “Cool Down” will leave your clothes cold, no matter how long it runs.
How to fix it:
Switch to a timed dry or high-heat cycle. Also make sure the temperature selector isn’t stuck or broken. Some digital dryers have a child lock or delay mode—disable those if needed.
5. Let the Dryer Cool Down
The issue:
Dryers have built-in thermal overload protection. If it overheats, it may temporarily disable heating.
How to fix it:
Unplug the dryer and let it cool for 30 minutes. Then plug it back in and run a short cycle. If heat returns, the issue was likely a temporary sensor shutdown. If this happens repeatedly, clean the vents or call a technician to check internal sensors.
6. Inspect the Door Seal and Latch
The issue:
If the door doesn’t close properly, the dryer might run but won’t heat—this is a safety feature.
How to fix it:
Open the door and inspect the rubber seal. If it’s cracked, loose, or dirty, clean it or consider replacing it. Also check the latch: it should click securely when you shut the door. A loose latch can signal to the dryer that the door is still open.
7. Try a Hard Reset (Power Cycle)
The issue:
Glitches in the control board or sensors may prevent heating, especially after a power surge.
How to fix it:
Unplug the dryer for 5 to 10 minutes. This resets the internal computer. When you plug it back in, choose a standard high-heat cycle and see if heating resumes. If the issue persists, the problem could be electronic—and that’s a job for a technician.
When You Should Call a Pro
If none of these steps solve the issue, or you notice signs like a burning smell, strange noises, or visible damage, don’t take chances. You could be dealing with a broken heating element, thermal fuse, or control board—repairs that require professional tools and expertise.
For fast, reliable dryer repair in Staten Island, reach out to certified local technicians who can fix the issue safely and efficiently.