Dryer Turns On But No Heat? Reset The Circuit Breaker First

Is your dryer spinning but failing to heat up and dry your clothes? That soggy, wet laundry can be frustrating when you need something dried in a hurry. While a malfunctioning dryer often requires professional repair, there is one quick fix you can try yourself first - resetting the circuit breaker. Often the issue is simply a tripped breaker interrupting power to the dryer. Before calling for service, take a few minutes to locate the circuit breaker panel and reset the switch. This simple step resolves many "dryer turns on but no heat" complaints, saving homeowners time, stress and money.

Resetting the circuit breaker is just one potential solution for a dryer that runs but doesn't heat. Several other common problems can also prevent warm air from circulating to dry clothes. Issues like a faulty heating element, clogged vent, broken thermostat or defective timer can interfere with the drying process. Diagnosing the specific problem takes some troubleshooting know-how.

Why Your Dryer Might Not Be Heating

Faulty Heating Element

Electric dryers rely on a heating element to raise the air temperature inside the drum. This cylindrical part is typically made of coiled metal wires that heat up when electrical current passes through. As it gets hot, the surrounding air warms as well. Over time, the heating element can burn out, causing no heat issues.

Warning signs of a broken heating element include the dryer powering on but failing to heat up at all. You may notice the drum is spinning normally, but air remains cool. Testing the element with a multimeter can confirm if it is no longer functioning. Remove the back panel to access the element wires. Check for continuity across its terminals. No continuity means the heating element needs replacement.

Thermal Fuse Tripped

Another safety component that can interrupt heat is the thermal fuse. This protective device is designed to blow and break the heating element circuit when temperatures exceed safe limits. If the dryer overheats due to restricted airflow or other issues, the thermal fuse sacrifices itself to prevent a fire hazard.

A tripped thermal fuse shuts off the heating element circuit until replaced. Warning signs include heat ceasing suddenly during a cycle. Testing it with a multimeter will reveal if continuity is broken. Thermal fuses are not resettable - the part must be replaced. Be sure to address what caused overheating before installing a new fuse.

Clogged Airflow

For effective, even drying, air must circulate freely through the dryer, heating element and vent system. Lint and debris buildup in ductwork, clogging the airflow, is a prime suspect when heat problems arise. Excess lint in ducts and vents prevents moist air from escaping efficiently. The heating element keeps working to reach the set temperature, but air can't circulate to dry the clothes.

To maintain airflow, clean lint from the ductwork, vent hood and exhaust pipe regularly. Disconnect sections to thoroughly remove built up lint. Ensure venting leads outdoors, not into spaces inside walls or attics. Avoid crushing or kinking flexible ducts. Regular duct cleaning and vent maintenance prevents restrict airflow issues affecting heat.

Gas Valve Malfunction (Gas Dryers)

Gas dryers rely on combustion to generate heat. This process requires a gas supply line, burner assembly and gas valve to regulate gas flow. The gas valve has an electric coil that opens when energized, allowing gas through to the burner. If the valve or coil fail, the burner cannot ignite to produce warm air.

Warning signs of a gas valve problem include the igniter glowing but no flame ignition. The valve may not be opening fully to allow gas to flow. Carefully inspect the valve and coils for damage. Check for power to the valve during the dryer start-up. The gas valve may need adjustment or replacement to resolve no heat issues.

Broken Thermostat

The thermostat controls dryer temperature, telling the heating element when to cycle on and off. This part monitors air temperature and adjusts heat to maintain the selected setting. If the thermostat malfunctions, it cannot properly regulate heating. A broken thermostat fails to send power to activate the heating element, meaning no heat.

Testing the thermostat with a multimeter can isolate defects. Check for continuity across its terminals. If the thermostat's switch fails to close when hot, replacement is required. A broken thermostat provides inaccurate temperature readings and no heat regulation.

Bad Timer

Mechanical dryers use a timer to advance through drying cycles, activating different components like the heating element. An issue with the timer motor could prevent power from reaching the element. The timer may fail to engage heat at the right stage of the program, meaning warm air never flows.

Warning signs of a bad timer include cycles ending early or failure to heat up on any setting. Testing with a multimeter can reveal if the timer motor or contacts are malfunctioning. Try advancing the timer manually to check if it switches on the heat circuit. If the mechanical timer is defective, replacing it should restore proper operation.

Reset The Circuit Breaker

Before diving into extensive dryer troubleshooting, attempt the quick circuit breaker reset first. Here are the steps:

• Locate the main circuit breaker panel, usually in the basement, garage or laundry room.
• Open the metal door and identify the breaker controlling the dryer circuit. It may be labeled.
• Flip the dryer's breaker switch fully to the Off position, then back On.
• If the breaker stays in the On position, power is restored to the dryer.
• If the breaker immediately trips again, contact an electrician to diagnose the issue.

Resetting or replacing the circuit breaker restores electricity to the dryer, which resolves many no heat complaints. Keep in mind that a tripped breaker is often a symptom of a larger electrical issue that requires professional assessment for safety.

Other Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Before delving into heating system diagnostics and repairs, there are a few basic checks to perform in case the problem is minor:

• Ensure the dryer is plugged in fully and the outlet is energized.
• Inspect the power cord for damage or loose connections.
• Check the drive belt and drum rollers spin smoothly.
• Thoroughly clean lint from the filter screen before each load.
• Clear any items blocking airflow in the drum.

Taking a few minutes to do these quick checks could reveal an easy fix and save you time and hassle.

Preventing Future "No Heat" Issues

With proper maintenance and care, you can avoid many no heat dryer troubles:

• Clean the exhaust system regularly - Lint buildup is a leading cause of airflow restrictions and overheating.
• Avoid overstuffing the drum - Overloading reduces airflow and strains components.
• Give adequate clearance - Allow at least 12 inches behind and around the dryer for ventilation.
• Upgrade ducts - Replace plastic or foil ducts with rigid metal to prevent crushing.

Preventative dryer maintenance saves money and frustration over time. Be diligent about cleaning lint from the filter, ducts and vent hood to maximize performance.

When To Call A Repair Technician

While many no heat issues stem from minor fixes, complex repairs are best left to qualified professionals:

• For gas line, burner or igniter repairs, call a technician to avoid gas leaks.
• If you suspect electrical issues or overheating risks, have an appliance expert assess it.
• When troubleshooting steps fail to resolve the no heat problem, professional service can diagnose and repair the specific issue.

Technicians have specialized tools, diagnostic skills and parts knowledge to efficiently restore your dryer's heating function. For your safety, trust gas valve or electrical repairs to licensed professionals.

When your dryer fails to heat up, resist the urge to immediately call for service. First, try resetting the circuit breaker in case a tripped switch is interrupting power. Check for clogged vents, defective parts or gas valve issues if resetting the breaker doesn't work. With some diligent troubleshooting, many homeowners can find and resolve the problem themselves.

However, complex electrical or gas-related repairs are best handled by trained appliance technicians to avoid safety risks. Know your limits on DIY dryer repairs. Resetting the circuit breaker is an easy first step that saves time and money when the dryer runs but doesn't heat up.