Amana Dryer: not heating on automatic cycle

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Amana dryer running but not heating during automatic cycles? If your clothes remain damp after a full drying cycle, it could be due to common issues like a faulty heating element, blown thermal fuse, or airflow restrictions. Understanding the root cause can save you time and money in repairs.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Official Amana guidance emphasizes vent cleaning for drying performance; community sources align on heating component failures. (Product Help | Amana

Possible Causes

Faulty heating element

How to Identify: No or low heat output despite normal motor operation; multimeter shows no continuity in heating element.

Part: Heating element

Blown thermal fuse

How to Identify: Dryer runs but no heat; continuity test on thermal fuse shows open circuit.

Part: Thermal fuse

Faulty thermostat or high‑limit thermostat

How to Identify: Thermostat fails continuity test at room temperature; can cause no heat even if element is functional.

Part: Cycling thermostat / high‑limit thermostat

Restricted airflow (vent/duct blockage)

How to Identify: Long dry times with some heat present; lint buildup visible in vent hose or outside vent.

Part: Dryer venting system

Gas valve solenoid failure (gas models)

How to Identify: Gas dryer runs but no ignition of burner; suspected if igniter glows but no flame.

Part: Gas valve solenoid

Power supply issue (voltage imbalance)

How to Identify: Dryer runs but insufficient voltage to heating circuit; check breaker or outlet voltage.

Part: Dryer power supply / breaker

DIY Solutions

Check and Clean Dryer Vent

Easy 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum brush, vent cleaning brush
  1. Disconnect power and move dryer away from wall.
  2. Disconnect vent hose and visually inspect for lint buildup.
  3. Use vent cleaning brush to remove lint from hose and wall vent.
  4. Reconnect vent and run a test cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before servicing.

Test Thermal Fuse for Continuity

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver
  1. Unplug dryer and access back panel to locate thermal fuse.
  2. Disconnect wires and test fuse with multimeter for continuity.
  3. Replace fuse with exact replacement if continuity is absent.
  4. Reassemble and test dryer.
⚠️ Safety First: Replace with exact part; ensure unit is unplugged.

Test and Replace Heating Element

Advanced 60–90 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers
  1. Disconnect power and remove dryer cabinet panels to access heating element.
  2. Disconnect heating element wires and test for continuity.
  3. Replace heating element assembly if no continuity.
  4. Reassemble and verify heat on test cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Electrical safety; part replacement may require model‑specific instructions.

Professional Repairs

Replace Gas Valve Solenoids (Gas Models)

Estimated Cost: $60 - $150

Electrical Control or Thermostat Assembly Replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200

When to Call a Professional

Suspected gas component failure or gas smell
Complex electrical component failures after basic DIY tests
Inability to access internal components safely

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter: Vent blockage and overheating
    Frequency: Every load
  • Clean dryer vent and duct: Airflow restriction and heating issues
    Frequency: Annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dryer not heating on automatic cycle?
Common causes include a faulty heating element, blown thermal fuse, or restricted airflow.
How do I fix Amana Dryer not heating on automatic cycle myself?
Check the dryer vent for blockages, test the thermal fuse for continuity, or replace the heating element.
How much does it cost to fix not heating on automatic cycle?
Professional repairs can cost between $60 - $200 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not heating on automatic cycle?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you're unsure about more complex repairs.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty cycling thermostat
  • Defective moisture sensor
  • Wiring issues or loose connections

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Test and replace the cycling thermostat. Access the thermostat by removing the back panel of the dryer. Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If defective, replace it with a new one.

  2. Inspect and clean the moisture sensor. Locate the sensor inside the dryer drum, usually near the lint filter. Clean it with a soft cloth to remove any residue that may affect its performance.

  3. Check wiring and connections. Unplug the dryer and inspect all wiring for signs of damage or loose connections. Tighten any loose wires and replace damaged ones as necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Amana Dryer heats up on Timed (high heat) but not on Automat...

Community Discussions

heats up on Timed (high heat) but not on Automatic (low heat)

Replaced thermostats, fuses, and heating coil.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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