What to Do If Your Dryer Doesn’t Heat Up?
The Problem

A clothes dryer that spins but doesn’t heat up is practically useless — the laundry stays damp no matter how long the cycle runs. I faced this situation once when even after two full cycles, my clothes were still wet. At first, I thought the heating element had burned out completely. But after carefully checking the manual, I realized that the issue could be caused by a range of simple, fixable problems.

Common Reasons Why a Dryer Loses Heat

Wrong cycle setting – Air-only or delicate cycles may not use heat.

Clogged lint filter – A blocked filter restricts airflow and prevents proper heating.

Obstructed vent hose – If hot air can’t escape, the dryer overheats and stops heating.

Tripped circuit breaker – Many dryers require two breakers, and one may have tripped.

Faulty heating element or thermostat – If damaged, they prevent heat production.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Verify the Cycle Settings

The manual recommends checking the program first. I realized mine was set to “Air Fluff,” which uses no heat at all. Switching to the correct cycle solved part of the problem.

2. Clean the Lint Filter

I pulled out the lint filter and found it packed with debris. Following the manual’s cleaning steps, I washed and dried it before putting it back. This immediately improved performance.

3. Check the Vent Hose

The manual explained that lint can accumulate in the vent hose. I disconnected it and discovered it was almost completely blocked. After cleaning, hot air flowed freely again.

4. Reset the Circuit Breaker

The dryer’s drum still turned but produced no heat. According to the manual, this can happen if one breaker trips. I reset the breaker, and the heating returned.

5. Inspect Heating Components

If none of the above works, the manual notes that the heating element or thermostat may be faulty. These usually require professional service.

My Experience

At first, I thought my dryer was beyond repair, but after following the manual’s instructions, I discovered the problem was nothing more than a clogged vent and the wrong cycle selection. Once I fixed both, the dryer heated up normally again, saving me from calling a technician.

FAQ

Why is my dryer running but not heating?
– Usually because of clogged vents, wrong settings, or a tripped breaker.

Can I fix this myself?
– Yes, by cleaning the filter, checking the hose, and resetting the breaker.

When should I call a technician?
– If the heating element or thermostat is broken, professional repair is required.