RP Appliance Tech Services
  1. Home
  2. Clothes Dryer Repair
  3. Dryer problem
Dryer problem

Dryer Not Heating? Three Parts to Check First.

A dryer that runs but doesn't heat is one of the most common service calls and one of the fastest fixes. Three parts cause 90% of these — and which one depends on whether you have gas or electric.

Common causes

What's actually wrong

Electric: heating element

Most common cause on electric dryers. Element burns out — open circuit. Quick test with a multimeter.

Gas: igniter

Most common cause on gas dryers. Glow-bar igniter weakens or fails. Cheap part, quick swap.

Thermal fuse

Both gas and electric. Triggered by a clogged vent overheating the unit. Once it pops, no heat. Always replace AND clear the vent.

Cycling thermostat

Less common but happens. Won't allow the dryer to call for heat.

Gas: flame sensor

Specific to gas dryers — detects ignition. When it fails, dryer runs but won't heat.

Before you call

Quick checks you can do

  • Confirm it's electric or gas. Different parts.
  • Check the lint screen and inspect the wall vent for blockage. Restricted airflow trips the thermal fuse.
  • On electric dryers, test heating element continuity with a multimeter (or call us).
  • On gas dryers, listen for the igniter clicking and look for the orange glow at startup.
When to call us

Heating elements, igniters, and thermal fuses are all $20-40 parts. The labor and proper diagnosis is what matters — we'll get the right part on the first visit.

Call (631) 316-1756
Brands we service

Common on these brands