Blown thermal fuse
A one-time safety fuse cuts the heat when the dryer overheats, often because of a restricted exhaust.
Appliance problem guide
Dryer Not Heating
A dryer that tumbles but stays cold usually has a heat source or safety part that has failed, often after overheating.
Short answer
Clean the lint screen, check that the exhaust flap outside opens, and on an electric dryer make sure both breakers for the dryer are on. If it still runs cold, a thermal fuse, heating element, igniter or gas valve part likely needs a technician.
For homeowners with a broken washer, dryer, oven, stove, cooktop or freezer. Not for refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, commercial appliances, parts orders or phone-only quotes.
What is usually behind it
Likely causes
Most no-heat problems are caused by a safety part doing its job. Finding out why it tripped matters as much as replacing it.
Failed heating element
On electric dryers, the coil can break and stop heating entirely.
Igniter or gas valve coils
On gas dryers, a weak igniter or failing valve coils stop the burner from lighting.
Half the power on an electric dryer
Electric dryers use a double breaker. If one side trips, the drum can turn while the heat stays off.
Safe first checks
What you can safely check first
- Clean the lint screen
- Check that the outside exhaust flap opens and blows air when the dryer runs
- Make sure the dryer is set to a heated cycle
- On an electric dryer, check both halves of the double breaker
- On a gas dryer, confirm the gas valve behind the dryer is open
Safety: gas and electrical work
If you smell gas, do not switch anything on or off and do not use a phone near the appliance. Leave the house and call the gas utility or 911 from outside.
Unplug the dryer before moving it. Do not open the cabinet or bypass a thermal fuse; it is there to prevent fires.
When to call
When to call a technician
Call if the dryer still runs cold after the lint screen, exhaust and breakers are checked. Mention whether it is gas or electric and whether it overheated before it stopped heating.
Related services
Services that cover this problem
Start with dryer repair, part of washer and dryer repair.
Dryer Repair
Gas and electric dryers that will not heat, will not start or dry slowly.
Washer and Dryer Repair
Washers that will not drain or spin, and dryers that will not heat or start.
Markets and areas
Calling from your market
- Washer and Dryer in Birmingham, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Tuscaloosa, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Huntsville, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Mobile, AL
Markets
Regional areas
Overheating often blows the thermal fuse. The usual root cause is a clogged exhaust duct or lint buildup, so the airflow should be checked when the fuse is replaced.
Yes. A failed cycling thermostat or a control problem can affect some heat settings. A technician can test the thermostats and controls.
Not necessarily, but any gas smell is a reason to get everyone out first. Otherwise, a no-heat gas dryer usually has an igniter or valve part that needs replacing.
Next step
Still not working after the safe checks?
Call to describe what the appliance is doing and get connected with an independent local provider.