Amana Dryer: not heating, not functioning on other settings

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Amana Dryer is not heating and failing to function on other settings, you may notice the drum tumbles but clothes remain damp. This issue could stem from a blown thermal fuse, incorrect cycle settings, or an improper power supply. Understanding these common causes can help you troubleshoot effectively and restore your dryer's performance.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Some dry cycles like Air Only/Fluff do not heat and are intentional; ensure correct heat setting.

Possible Causes

Blown thermal fuse

How to Identify: Dryer tumbles but does not heat at all; test fuse for continuity with multimeter, no continuity means blown.

Part: Thermal fuse

Incorrect cycle settings causing no heat

How to Identify: Dryer set to “Air Only” or no‑heat cycle; settings do not activate heating element.

Part: Control panel / user selection

Improper power supply (electric models only)

How to Identify: One of two 240 V breakers tripped; dryer tumbles but no heat; measured voltage not correct.

Part: Power supply / circuit breaker

DIY Solutions

Test and Replace Thermal Fuse

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver
  1. Unplug dryer and ensure power is off.
  2. Remove rear access panel to locate thermal fuse on blower housing or near heating element.
  3. Use a multimeter to check continuity; if open (no continuity) replace with exact model fuse.
  4. Reassemble and test dryer heat function.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before servicing.

Check Power Supply and Circuit Breakers (electric models)

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Verify both 240 V circuit breakers are on and not tripped.
  2. Ensure dryer plug is fully seated and power cord intact.
  3. Reset breaker if tripped and test dryer heat.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not reset breakers repeatedly without understanding cause.

Test/Replace Heating Element

Moderate 60–90 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver
  1. Unplug dryer and open rear housing to access heating element assembly.
  2. Visually inspect for burn breaks; test for continuity with multimeter.
  3. If no continuity, remove and replace heating element assembly.
  4. Reassemble and test heat.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure proper part for model.

Verify Cycle Settings

Easy 2–3 minutes
  1. Ensure the selected drying cycle includes heat (avoid Air Only/Fluff settings).
  2. Choose a Timed Dry with heat and test.

Professional Repairs

Replace Gas Valve Solenoid Coils (gas models)

Estimated Cost: $80–$200

Replace Control Board / Advanced Diagnostics

Estimated Cost: $200–$500

Replace Thermostat Assemblies

Estimated Cost: $40–$120

When to Call a Professional

Gas smell or suspected gas issues
Electrical tests beyond basic multimeter use
Igniter glows but no flame (gas models)
Control board suspected

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter after every use: Airflow restriction that can cause overheating and fuse failure
    Frequency: after each cycle
  • Clean exhaust vent at least annually: Vent blockage and overheating-related failures
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dryer not heating, not functioning on other settings?
Common causes include a blown thermal fuse, incorrect cycle settings, or improper power supply.
How do I fix Amana Dryer not heating, not functioning on other settings myself?
You can test and replace the thermal fuse, check the power supply, or verify the cycle settings.
How much does it cost to fix not heating, not functioning on other settings?
Professional repair costs range from $40 to $500, depending on the issue and required parts.
When should I call a technician for not heating, not functioning on other settings?
Call a technician if DIY troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, especially for complex repairs.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty heating element
  • Defective timer or timer knob
  • Thermal fuse blown
  • Faulty thermostat
  • Electrical issue (wiring or outlet problems)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and replace the heating element if faulty. Disconnect the dryer from the power source, access the heating element, test it for continuity with a multimeter, and replace if necessary.

  2. Inspect and replace the timer or timer knob. Remove the control panel, check for any visible damage or malfunction, and replace the timer if it does not function correctly.

  3. Test and replace the thermal fuse. Disconnect the power, locate the thermal fuse, test it for continuity, and replace it if it is blown.

  4. Check and replace the thermostat. Disconnect the dryer, access the thermostat, test it for functionality, and replace if defective.

  5. Inspect electrical connections and outlet. Ensure the dryer is properly plugged in, check for any loose or damaged wiring, and test the outlet for proper voltage.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Sometimes Heating Dryer/Sometimes Working Oven

Community Discussions

only sometimes uses heat to dry, never stays on for a full cycle when the heat is actually on, all other settings don’t work

Timer knob or timer itself might be broken.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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