ApplianceErrors.com

Dryer Runs But Won't Heat: Causes and Fixes

A dryer that tumbles but won't heat usually has a blown thermal fuse, a failed heating element (electric) or igniter/gas valve (gas), or — on electric dryers — only one of the two 240V breaker legs tripped. A restricted vent is the root cause behind most blown thermal fuses, so always clean the duct run.

What to Check First

  1. 1

    Electric: check BOTH breaker legs — one tripped leg lets the drum turn but kills the heater.

  2. 2

    Clean the full vent run, lint screen, and exterior hood — restriction trips the thermal cutoff and blows the fuse.

  3. 3

    Test the thermal fuse for continuity (back panel, on the blower housing) — it's a one-time device that must be replaced if blown.

  4. 4

    Electric: measure the heating element for continuity; a broken coil = no heat.

  5. 5

    Gas: listen for the igniter glowing and the gas valve clicking — a weak igniter won't open the valve.

Error Codes for This Problem, by Brand

If your dryer is showing an error code along with this symptom, find your brand below — each code links to its full fix guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dryer running but not getting hot? +
On electric dryers, a single tripped 240V breaker leg is a classic cause — the motor runs on 120V but the heater needs both legs. Otherwise: a blown thermal fuse (from vent restriction), a failed heating element, or on gas models a bad igniter.
Will a clogged vent stop my dryer from heating? +
Yes — a restricted vent overheats the dryer and trips the thermal cutoff, which can blow the thermal fuse and cut heat entirely. Clean the full duct run, then replace the fuse if blown.
← All Symptoms All Dryer Error Codes →