24/7/365 Emergency

Dryer Not Heating?

Why isn't my dryer heating up? Common causes, what you can check, and when to call technicians.

6-Month Warranty

24/7/365

Emergency

Service-call pricing

All tiers applied to the cost of the repair when work is done.

Standard
Most appliances + brands
$99
Luxury
High-end (Sub-Zero, Wolf, Miele, BlueStar, Thermador, etc.)
$125
Commercial
Walk-in coolers, commercial laundry, restaurant equipment
$175

Warranty: 6-month parts, 6-month labor. Technician quotes the repair on-site before any work.

Request Service

Appliance Down? Instant SMS & Email Confirmation.

Submit below — you get an instant SMS + email confirming we've received your request. Our dispatcher locks in your tech's exact arrival time within 1 business hour. Live tracking link in every message.

Book a Service

Most jobs scheduled same-day or next-day.

Required fields marked *. Free estimates.

No payment required. You'll get an SMS + email confirmation as soon as our dispatcher reviews — usually within 1 business hour.

Common causes of dryer not heating

Clogged Lint Filter and Vent

importantCan DIY check

A full lint filter or a blocked vent hose prevents airflow, causing the dryer to overheat and shut off the heating element. This is the most common cause of a dryer not heating.

Faulty Heating Element

importantPro recommended

The heating element is responsible for generating heat. If it burns out or breaks, the dryer will tumble but produce no heat.

Defective Thermostat or Thermal Fuse

importantPro recommended

These safety components regulate temperature. If the thermostat fails, it may not signal the heating element to turn on. A blown thermal fuse indicates an overheating issue and will prevent the heater from working.

Problem with the Timer or Control Board

importantPro recommended

The timer or electronic control board manages all dryer functions, including the heating cycle. A malfunction here can prevent the heat from engaging.

Bi-Metal (High-Limit) Thermostat Failure

importantPro recommended

This safety device is designed to shut off the heat if the dryer gets too hot. If it fails in the open position, it will prevent the heating element from receiving power.

Quick checks you can run safely

  1. 1

    Check the Lint Filter

    Locate the lint filter (usually inside the door or on top of the dryer drum). Remove all accumulated lint and ensure it's clean. A clogged filter severely restricts airflow.

  2. 2

    Inspect the Dryer Vent Hose

    Check the flexible hose behind the dryer that vents to the outside. Ensure it's not kinked, crushed, or blocked with lint. Disconnect it (if accessible and safe) and check for obstructions.

    Safety: Ensure the dryer is unplugged before disconnecting the vent hose.
  3. 3

    Verify Dryer Settings

    Make sure the dryer is not set to an air-only or no-heat cycle. Check the settings knob or control panel for accidental selection of a non-heat option.

  4. 4

    Test with a Different Cycle

    Try running the dryer on a different heat setting or cycle to see if the issue persists across all settings. This can help rule out a simple setting error.

  5. 5

    Listen for the Heating Element

    During a heated cycle, you should hear a faint humming sound when the heating element is active. If you don't hear it, the element may not be receiving power or may be faulty.

When to call a pro right away

  • Burning smell or smoke from the dryer.

    This indicates a serious overheating issue or a component failure that could pose a fire risk. Do not operate the dryer.

  • The dryer is completely dead - no lights, no sound, no tumbling.

    This could be an electrical supply issue (like a tripped breaker or faulty outlet) or a problem with the main power cord or internal wiring that requires professional electrical diagnosis.

  • You suspect a gas leak (rotten egg smell).

    Natural gas or propane leaks are extremely dangerous and can cause explosions or asphyxiation. Immediately leave the area and call for professional service.

  • After performing basic checks, the dryer still doesn't heat.

    Internal components like the heating element, thermostat, thermal fuse, or control board likely require professional diagnosis and repair. Attempting internal repairs without proper knowledge can be dangerous and void warranties.

Need help diagnosing this?

transparent service-call pricing (applied to repair). Same-day service available.

Typical repair time once diagnosed: 75 minutes

Related issues we fix

This page provides general diagnostic guidance for dryer not heating. Specific causes and repairs vary by appliance brand, model, and condition. For accurate diagnosis, contact a licensed appliance repair technician. Repairs involving refrigerant systems, gas lines, or high-voltage circuits require certified professionals — DIY attempts on these systems may be illegal and dangerous.

How our repair process works

Five steps from your first call to the warranty receipt. No surprises.

  1. 1

    Inspection

    Your technician examines the appliance, listens to your description, and notes the model + serial for parts lookup. Visual + audio-based diagnostics first — non-invasive.

  2. 2

    Diagnostics

    Targeted tests on the failing subsystem (compressor, control board, heating element, motor, etc.) to identify the exact root cause. You get a clear explanation, not jargon.

  3. 3

    Fix decision

    Up-front estimate before any work begins: cost, parts, and the realistic likelihood of success vs. recommending replacement on an old or uneconomical unit. You decide.

  4. 4

    Operational test

    After the repair we run the appliance through its normal cycle on-site — never "it should work now, call us if it doesn't." You sign off when it's actually working.

  5. 5

    Warranty + consultation

    Receipt with warranty terms in writing. Plus a quick walkthrough of how to extend the appliance's life (filter cleaning, drain maintenance, etc.) — included free.

What our customers say

Excellent4.8Verified Google Reviews
View all on Google
Sherri D'Alessandro

Sherri D'Alessandro

5 months ago
Google

Such a great company! They went above and beyond, very professional, and I will be recommending them to all my clients, friends and family!

Kevin Dvorscak

Kevin Dvorscak

9 months ago
Google

Sean was very knowledgeable and professional. He saved the day! Our dryer was no longer heating. He came out the same day and diagnosed a burnt out heating coil. He was able to get it replaced and back up and running in about an hour! Thanks again!

Bonnie Hall

Bonnie Hall

9 months ago
Google

Sean was efficient and considerate. Got our icemaker working, but also explained to me how to fix it, if it freezes. He was very knowledgeable in all things appliances any make and model!!!

Alfred Mapp

Alfred Mapp

a year ago
Google

I can't say enough about the service I received from Sean at STAR Appliance Repair fixing my dishwasher. Sean diagnosed the problem, available parts, and completed the service the following day all while giving me step by step instructions so I was aware of t…

Gidget Rao

Gidget Rao

6 years ago
Google

Our Samsung french door refrigerator had been icing up on the inside. Took a chance on this local repair company and what a blessing they were. I only had to wait 24 hours from the first call to have a repairman come to our home. I called on a Thursday to s…

Hours of Operation(all times EDT)

Mon8am–6pm EDT
Tue8am–6pm EDT
Wed8am–6pm EDT
Thu8am–6pm EDT
Fri8am–6pm EDT
Sat9am–4pm EDT
SunClosed
24/7/365 Emergency Service — live dispatcher answers around the clock. Emergency response within 4 hours in most service areas. When your appliance is down, we move fast.
Same-Business-Day Response Available — call before noon for priority scheduling in your service area.
Weekend Service Available— we work Saturday and Sunday for operators who can't wait until Monday.
Office hours: Mon–Fri 7:30am–4:30pm EDT. Emergency dispatch available 24/7/365.

Appliance Down? Instant SMS & Email Confirmation.

Star Appliance Repair same-day available. Tech arrival time confirmed within 1 business hour.