Appliance Resolve
General owner-safe guideUpdated July 2026

Dryer overheating

The cabinet, clothes, or room becomes unusually hot, or the dryer stops on a temperature warning.

Start hereStop the dryer and let it cool before checking anything.

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

    Clean the lint screen

    Remove lint and reinstall the screen. Do not run the dryer without it.

    What you want: The screen is fully clear.
  2. 2

    Check the load

    Remove an oversized or tightly packed load. Items must tumble for air to circulate.

    What you want: The drum is no more than loosely filled.
  3. 3

    Check the exterior vent

    After cooling, inspect the outside hood for lint, nests, ice, or a stuck flap.

    What you want: The hood opens freely and is not blocked.
  4. 4

    Confirm the cycle

    High Heat is not suitable for every fabric. Choose the recommended setting.

    What you want: The cycle matches the fabric label.
  5. 5

    Arrange vent cleaning

    If airflow is weak, stop using the dryer until the full vent path is professionally inspected and cleaned.

    What you want: The complete vent path is confirmed clear.

Stop and arrange help when

  • There is a burning smell, smoke, glowing material, or scorched lint.
  • The plug, cord, outlet, or breaker is hot.
  • You smell gas. Leave the area and contact the gas utility or emergency service.
  • The dryer remains unusually hot after airflow is restored.

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.

Create diagnostic summaryFind the manualCheck recallsRepair or replace