Dryer Not Heating? Safe Checks Before You Call
Short answerA dryer that runs but won't heat often has one of two breakers tripped on an electric model, a closed gas valve on a gas model, an air-only cycle selected, or a clogged vent. Check those first. Failed heating parts need a technician. If you smell gas, leave and call from outside.
Safety first
- If you smell gas, do not touch the dryer. Leave and call 911 or the gas company from outside.
- Unplug the dryer or turn off the breakers before cleaning behind it. On a gas dryer, do not move it or touch the gas line; have a professional do that cleaning. Do not open the cabinet or the drum panels.
- Clean the lint filter before and after each cycle, and do not run a dryer that smells hot or scorched. Lint and blocked vents are a fire risk.
Likely causes
| Cause | How to tell | What fixes it |
|---|---|---|
| One breaker tripped (electric) | The drum turns, but there is no heat. Electric dryers use two breakers, one for the motor and one for the heater. | Turn both breakers fully off, then on, once. |
| Gas valve closed (gas) | The drum turns but there is no heat. The handle is not parallel to the pipe. | If the handle was recently moved and you do not smell gas, have a technician or plumber confirm the supply. Do not disconnect anything. |
| Air-only cycle selected | The dial is on Air Only or Air Fluff. | Choose a heated cycle. |
| Clogged lint screen or vent | It heats a little but clothes take a long time, or the outside flap stays shut. | Clean the screen and vent. If you cannot reach it, have a professional clean it. |
| Failed heating part or safety device | The breakers, cycle and vent are all fine, but it is cold after 5 minutes. | A technician tests the heating element or gas burner parts, and the thermostats. |
Why this is a job for a professional
- An empty, heated timed cycle is still cold after 5 minutes.
- A breaker trips again, or you notice a burning smell.
- Gas or vent connections need work.
- Ask: what failed, and did overheating cause it? Did you check airflow through the whole vent? Is it worth fixing at this age? What is the total price?
What it costs to have fixed
Appliance Repair is estimated at $90 to $460 nationally. See your state
Common questions
Why is my dryer not getting hot?
On electric dryers, one of the two breakers may be tripped, so the drum turns with no heat. On gas dryers, check that the valve handle runs parallel to the pipe. Also make sure no air-only cycle is selected.
How do I test if my dryer is heating?
Whirlpool suggests running a heated timed cycle with the dryer empty for 5 minutes, then opening the door and feeling inside.
How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
Whirlpool says every one to two years, or as needed. USFA says to clean the lint filter before and after each cycle, and to make sure the vent is not crushed or restricted.
Why does my dryer heat but take so long to dry?
Whirlpool says long dry times on a dryer that is heating most likely come from a vent problem or restricted airflow. It says the vent must be cleaned every one to two years or as needed, and a professional vent cleaning service can inspect it for blockages. Source
Related repairs
- Dishwasher Not Draining? How to Fix It Yourself
- Refrigerator Not Cooling? What to Check First
- Washing Machine Not Draining? How to Fix It
Last verified 2026-11-01
Sources
- Whirlpool: Dryer Is Not Heating — Two breakers on a 30 amp circuit, 240 volt supply, gas valve position, Air Only cycle, the 5 minute heat test, and cleaning the vent every one to two years
- U.S. Fire Administration: Clothes Dryer Fire Safety — Cleaning the lint filter before and after each cycle, checking the vent is not crushed or restricted, the outdoor vent cover opening, and professional service
- Wisconsin Public Service Commission: Natural Gas Consumer Safety — Leaving and calling from a safe distance if you smell gas
General information, not professional advice. Conditions, codes and prices vary. Turn off power, gas or water before any work, and hire a licensed professional when in doubt. Cost figures are our estimates, not quotes.