Dryer Not Heating? 8 Common Causes & DIY Fixes (2025 Guide)
Is your dryer not heating properly, leaving clothes damp and extending drying cycles? This frustrating problem affects over 35% of Canadian households annually, but many heating issues can be resolved without expensive professional repairs.
At JK Appliances Toronto, we've diagnosed thousands of dryer heating problems across the GTA. Here's our expert troubleshooting guide to help you get your dryer working efficiently again.
Quick Answer: Is your dryer not heating and leaving clothes damp? This comprehensive guide covers 8 common causes and proven solutions for gas and electric dryers, helping you save money on unnecessary repairs. This is a common issue that can usually be resolved with proper troubleshooting. If the problem persists, professional diagnosis is recommended.
Quick Diagnosis: Signs Your Dryer Isn't Heating
Immediate Warning Signs:
- Clothes still damp after full cycle
- Dryer drum spins but no heat
- Takes multiple cycles to dry clothes
- No warm air from exhaust vent
- Error codes related to temperature
- Clothes not warm at cycle end
Safety First: Always unplug your dryer and turn off gas supply (for gas dryers) before performing any troubleshooting.
Cause 1: Clogged Lint Filter & Dryer Vent (75% of Cases)
The Problem: Lint buildup is the #1 reason dryers stop heating properly. Blocked airflow triggers safety mechanisms that shut off heat to prevent fires.
DIY Solution Steps:
- Remove and clean lint filter thoroughly with warm water
- Check exhaust vent outside - should have strong airflow when dryer runs
- Disconnect dryer vent hose and remove lint buildup
- Use dryer vent cleaning kit for deep cleaning
- Inspect entire vent path for obstructions
Professional Tip: Clean your lint filter after every load and have vents professionally cleaned annually.
Cause 2: Faulty Heating Element (Electric Dryers)
The Problem: Electric dryer heating elements burn out over time, completely stopping heat production.
How to Test Heating Element:
- Locate heating element housing (usually rear of dryer)
- Check for visible breaks in coil
- Test continuity with multimeter (should show 10-50 ohms)
- Look for white residue indicating element failure
Replacement Cost: $150-$300 including labor at JK Appliances Toronto.
Cause 3: Gas Supply Issues (Gas Dryers)
The Problem: Gas dryers require proper gas flow and ignition to generate heat.
Gas Dryer Troubleshooting:
- Check gas supply valve is fully open
- Verify pilot light or igniter operation
- Listen for gas valve clicking during cycle
- Ensure proper ventilation for combustion air
- Check gas line connections for leaks (soap bubble test)
Safety Warning: Gas appliance repairs require certified technicians. Contact JK Appliances for safe gas dryer service.
Cause 4: Blown Thermal Fuse
The Problem: Thermal fuses protect your dryer from overheating by cutting power when temperatures exceed safe limits.
Thermal Fuse Testing:
- Locate thermal fuse (usually on exhaust duct)
- Test for continuity with multimeter
- Check for burn marks or melted appearance
- Replace if blown (typically $15-30 part)
Root Cause Fix: Always address underlying airflow issues that caused thermal fuse to blow.
Cause 5: Defective Door Latch or Switch
The Problem: Faulty door mechanisms prevent dryer from starting heating cycle properly.
Door Issue Diagnosis:
- Ensure door closes completely and latches securely
- Test door switch by pressing manually
- Check for lint buildup in latch mechanism
- Inspect door seal alignment
- Listen for clicking sound when door closes
Quick Fix: Clean door latch area and realign if necessary.
Cause 6: Faulty Control Board or Timer
The Problem: Electronic controls regulate heating cycles. Malfunctions can prevent heat activation.
Control Board Symptoms:
- Digital display errors
- Inconsistent heating patterns
- Cycles stopping prematurely
- Temperature settings not working
- Unusual cycle behavior
Professional Repair Needed: Control board diagnosis requires specialized equipment available at JK Appliances.
Cause 7: Bad Temperature Sensors
The Problem: Temperature sensors monitor heat levels and can malfunction, causing heating issues.
Sensor Testing:
- Locate temperature sensors (cycling thermostat, high-limit thermostat)
- Test resistance with multimeter at room temperature
- Check for proper mounting and connections
- Look for corrosion or damage
Replacement Indicators: Infinite resistance or very low resistance readings.
Cause 8: Inadequate Power Supply (Electric Dryers)
The Problem: Electric dryers require 240V power. Partial power loss affects heating while allowing drum rotation.
Power Supply Check:
- Verify 240V at outlet with voltmeter
- Check circuit breaker hasn't partially tripped
- Inspect power cord connections
- Test both legs of 240V supply
- Look for loose connections at terminal block
Electrical Safety: High-voltage repairs require licensed electricians.
When to Call JK Appliances Toronto
Professional Service Required For:
- Gas dryer repairs (safety concerns)
- Electrical issues with 240V systems
- Control board replacements
- Multiple simultaneous problems
- Warranty considerations
- Repeated thermal fuse failures
Why Choose JK Appliances:
- Same-day service in Toronto & GTA
- Gas appliance certified technicians
- All major brands serviced
- 90-day repair warranty
- Transparent, upfront pricing
Dryer Maintenance Tips to Prevent Heating Problems
After Every Load:
- Clean lint filter completely
- Check for unusual noises or smells
- Ensure proper door closure
Monthly Maintenance:
- Inspect exhaust vent outside
- Clean around dryer area
- Check vent hose connections
- Wipe down door seal
Annual Professional Service:
- Complete vent cleaning
- Safety inspection
- Gas line testing (gas dryers)
- Electrical connection check
Cost
Common Questions People Ask
Q: Is it normal for my dryer to heating? 8 common causes & diy fixes (2025 guide)? No, this is not normal behavior and indicates an underlying issue that should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
Q: Can I fix this dryer problem myself? Some basic issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, but complex problems require professional diagnosis to avoid safety risks and warranty issues.
Q: How much does professional dryer repair cost in Toronto? Repair costs typically range from $150-$400 depending on the specific issue and parts needed. Our technicians provide free estimates before any work begins.
Q: How long does dryer repair take? Most repairs are completed within 1-2 hours during a single visit. Some cases may require ordering specialty parts with a follow-up appointment.
Q: Should I repair or replace my dryer? If your dryer is less than 8 years old and repair costs are under 50% of replacement cost, repair is usually the better value. Our technicians can help you make the right decision.
Q: Do you offer same-day dryer repair in Toronto? Yes! We offer same-day and emergency repair services throughout Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area for urgent issues.
Q: What brands of dryer do you repair? We service all major brands including Bosch, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, GE, Maytag, Frigidaire, Miele, and more.
Q: Is dryer repair covered by warranty? Many dryer issues are covered under manufacturer warranty. We can help verify your warranty status and handle claim processing.
Comparison: DIY vs Professional Repair
DIY Repair Costs:
- Lint filter cleaning: Free
- Thermal fuse replacement: $15-30
- Vent cleaning kit: $25-50
- Basic tools: $50-100
Professional Repair Costs in Toronto:
- Diagnostic fee: $89-120
- Heating element replacement: $150-300
- Thermal fuse service: $120-180
- Complete tune-up: $150-250
Frequently Asked Questions About Dryer Not Heating
Q: Why does my dryer start then stop heating? A: A dryer that starts heating but stops indicates thermal fuse activation due to overheating from blocked vents, a cycling thermostat cutting off heat when detecting unsafe temperatures, or a failing heating element that works intermittently. Check your lint filter and exhaust vent first—this is the most common cause. If venting is clear, test the thermal fuse for continuity. Never bypass the thermal fuse as this creates serious fire hazards and voids all warranties.
Q: Can I bypass a thermal fuse temporarily? A: Absolutely not. Never bypass thermal fuses or any safety devices. The thermal fuse is a critical fire prevention component that blows when your dryer overheats to prevent house fires. Bypassing it creates extreme fire hazards, violates electrical codes, voids all warranties, and could result in insurance claim denials if a fire occurs. Always replace blown thermal fuses and fix the underlying airflow problem that caused it to blow.
Q: How often should dryer vents be cleaned? A: Annual professional cleaning is the minimum recommendation for average households. However, clean your vent every 6 months if you have a family of 4+, do laundry daily, have pets, dry heavy items like towels and bedding frequently, or have a vent run longer than 15 feet. Toronto's lint-heavy winter clothing increases buildup. Signs you need immediate cleaning include clothes taking 2+ cycles to dry, dryer exterior getting very hot, burning smell, or weak airflow from the outside vent.
Q: Is it worth repairing an old dryer that won't heat? A: Yes, if repair costs are under 50% of replacement cost and your dryer is under 10 years old. Dryer heating element replacement typically costs $150-300 in Toronto, while a new quality dryer costs $600-1200. For a 5-year-old dryer, repair makes financial sense. However, if your dryer is 12+ years old and requires multiple expensive repairs (over $400), replacement may be moreeconomical. Consider energy efficiency improvements in newer models when deciding.
Q: How can I tell if my dryer heating element is bad? A: Signs of a failed heating element include the drum spinning normally but producing no heat whatsoever, no warm air from the exhaust vent, clothes completely cold after a full cycle, and no visible glow from the heating element when viewed through vent opening (electric dryers). To confirm, disconnect power and test the heating element for continuity with a multimeter—it should read 10-50 ohms. Infinite resistance or visible breaks in the coil indicate element failure requiring replacement.
Q: Why does my electric dryer drum spin but not heat? A: When an electric dryer drum spins normally but produces no heat, the 240V power supply has likely lost one leg of power. Electric dryers need both 120V legs (total 240V) to heat—one leg powers the motor and controls (making the drum spin), while both legs together power the heating element. Check if a circuit breaker has partially tripped, inspect the dryer power cord for damage, and test the outlet with a voltmeter to verify both 120V legs are present.
Q: How much does it cost to fix a dryer that's not heating in Toronto? A: DIY repairs range from free (cleaning lint filter/vents) to $30 (thermal fuse replacement). Professional repairs in Toronto cost $120-180 for thermal fuse service, $150-300 for heating element replacement (electric), $180-350 for gas valve/igniter replacement (gas dryers), $89-120 for diagnostics (usually waived with repair), and $150-250 for complete tune-up service. Most heating issues are resolved for $150-250 total including parts and labor.
Q: Can a clogged dryer vent cause no heat? A: Yes, severely clogged vents trigger safety mechanisms that shut off heat to prevent fires and overheating. When airflow is restricted, internal temperatures spike rapidly, causing the thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat to cut power to the heating element. Even partial blockages reduce heating efficiency by 30-50%. Clean your lint filter after every load and have vents professionally cleaned annually—this resolves 75% of all dryer heating problems.
Q: Why does my gas dryer take forever to dry but makes clicking sounds? A: Clicking sounds indicate the gas valve solenoids are engaging, but if drying takes excessive time, either gas isn't flowing properly or the igniter/flame sensor has failed. Check that the gas supply valve is fully open, verify the dryer's gas connection is secure, listen/look for a visible flame through the vent area during heating cycles, and check for error codes. Gas igniter failure is common—the igniter glows but fails to ignite gas, causing the clicking you hear. This requires professional replacement.
Q: Will cleaning my lint trap fix a dryer that's not heating? A: Cleaning the lint trap alone may not fully fix heating issues, but it's always the critical first step. While the lint filter itself rarely causes complete heat loss, it's part of the larger airflow system. You must also clean the exhaust vent hose, check the outside vent opening for blockages, and ensure proper airflow throughout the entire vent system. If comprehensive vent cleaning doesn't restore heat, the issue is likely a failed component like the heating element, thermal fuse, or gas igniter.
Q: Can I diagnose dryer heating problems myself or do I need a professional? A: Basic troubleshooting like cleaning vents, checking the lint filter, verifying the gas supply is open (gas dryers), and testing for warm air from the vent can be done safely as DIY. Testing thermal fuses andcycling thermostats with a multimeter is safe if power is disconnected. However, heating element replacement, gas component repairs, 240V electrical work, and control board diagnosis require professional service due to safety concerns and specialized equipment needs. When in doubt, call a certified technician.
Q: How do I know if my dryer thermal fuse is blown? A: A blown thermal fuse causes complete and permanent heat loss—the dryer drum will spin normally but produce zero heat on any setting. To test, disconnect power, remove the thermal fuse (usually located on the exhaust duct or blower housing), and use a multimeter set to continuity/resistance. A good fuse shows continuity (0 ohms), while a blown fuse shows infinite resistance (no continuity). Thermal fuses are one-time-use safety devices that cannot be reset—once blown, they must be replaced.
Emergency Dryer Repair Toronto
Service Areas:
- Downtown Toronto
- North York
- Scarborough
- Etobicoke
- Mississauga
- Brampton
- Markham
- Richmond Hill
- Vaughan
- Ajax
- Oakville
- Burlington
- Milton
Emergency Appliance Repair Toronto
24/7 Emergency Service: When your appliances stop working, JK Appliances offers emergency repair service throughout Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.
Contact Us:
- Phone: +1 6475608966
- Book Now: Book Now
- Email: services@jkappliancesrepair.com
- Address: 1234 Main St, Toronto, Ontario, M1A 2B3
Expert Tips & Pro Insights
💡 Pro Tip: Regular maintenance can prevent 80% of appliance problems. Follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and care.
⚠️ Safety Warning: Always disconnect power before attempting any repairs or inspections. If you smell gas, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
🔧 Technician Insight: Many issues that seem complex often have simple solutions. Start with basic troubleshooting before assuming the worst.
📞 When to Call a Professional: If you encounter electrical components, gas lines, refrigerant systems, or if basic troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, it's time to call an expert.
