General owner-safe guideUpdated July 2026

Dryer not heating

The drum turns but clothes stay cold or damp.

Start hereStop immediately if you smell gas or burning.

Try these checks in order

Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.

  1. 1

    Check the cycle and temperature

    Air Dry, Fluff, and some delicate cycles use little or no heat. Choose a normal heated cycle that is safe for the fabric.

    What you want: A heated cycle is selected.
  2. 2

    Clean the lint screen

    Remove lint before every load and reinstall the screen fully. Do not run the dryer without it.

    What you want: The screen is clean and undamaged.
  3. 3

    Check the outside vent

    While the dryer runs, look for strong airflow at the exterior hood. Keep hands away from hot metal and moving flaps.

    What you want: The hood opens and warm air exits freely.
  4. 4

    Reduce the load

    A packed drum limits airflow. Dry a smaller load of similar fabrics.

    What you want: Items can lift and tumble.
  5. 5

    Check electric dryer power

    Electric dryers can tumble with only part of the required power. Reset the double breaker once. Do not open the outlet or terminal cover.

    What you want: Both breaker poles remain on.

Stop and arrange help when

  • You smell gas. Leave the area and contact the gas utility or emergency service.
  • There is smoke, a burning smell, scorched lint, or a hot cord.
  • The vent is crushed, disconnected, or blocked inside a wall.
  • The breaker trips again or heating requires panel removal.

If the problem remains

Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.