A dryer that tumbles but doesn't heat is one of the most frustrating appliance problems. Your clothes come out damp after a full cycle, or the dryer runs forever without actually drying anything. The good news? Most dryer heating problems are caused by a few common parts that are relatively easy and inexpensive to replace.
The heating element is a coil that heats up when electricity flows through it. Over time, the coil can break or burn out, especially if the dryer overheats due to restricted airflow. If your electric dryer runs but produces no heat at all, this is the most likely culprit.
The thermal fuse is a one-time safety device that blows if the dryer overheats. Once blown, it cuts power to the heating element permanently until replaced. This is often caused by a clogged vent restricting airflow.
These thermostats regulate dryer temperature. When they fail, the dryer may not heat at all or may overheat.
Gas dryers use solenoid coils to open gas valves. If one or more solenoids fail, the gas valve won't open properly and the dryer won't heat.
The igniter lights the gas in a gas dryer. If it's weak or broken, it won't ignite the gas and the dryer won't heat.
A severely clogged vent can cause the dryer to overheat and shut down, or prevent proper heating. Always check and clean your vent first.
We stock OEM and premium aftermarket heating parts for all major dryer brands: Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, GE, Samsung, LG, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kenmore, and more.
Need a replacement instead of a repair?
Sometimes the repair cost isn’t worth it. XPart Supply carries Certified Pre-Owned washers and dryers that have been inspected, repaired, cleaned, and tested — available for local pickup or in-town delivery in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and Hamilton.
View Certified Pre-Owned AppliancesDIY parts typically cost $15-$80 depending on what's needed. A heating element runs $30-$60, thermal fuse $10-$20, thermostat $15-$30, gas igniter $30-$50. Professional repair costs $150-$300+ including labor.
Yes, but it won't dry your clothes. You can use it as an expensive clothes tumbler, but you're better off fixing it or using a laundromat until repaired.
Thermal fuses blow due to overheating, which is almost always caused by restricted airflow from a clogged lint filter, clogged vent, or crimped vent hose. Clean your entire vent system before replacing the fuse or it will blow again.
Most heating elements last 8-12 years with normal use. Frequent overheating from poor airflow, hard water deposits, or power surges can shorten element life.
Absolutely - if your dryer is less than 12 years old and otherwise working well, replacing heating components is far more cost-effective than buying a new dryer ($600-$1,200+).
