Whirlpool Dryer: not heating

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a Whirlpool dryer that runs but doesn't heat? Clothes remain damp or take too long to dry, indicating an issue with heat generation. This problem can occur in both electric and gas models and may stem from common causes such as a blown thermal fuse or a failed heating element.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Whirlpool emphasizes cleaning vents and lint traps to prevent overheating and heat issues.

Possible Causes

Blown thermal fuse

How to Identify: Dryer runs but no heat; thermal fuse tests open (no continuity with multimeter.

Part: Thermal fuse

Failed heating element (electric models)

How to Identify: No heat from dryer; multimeter shows no continuity across heating element coils.

Part: Heating element or assembly

Gas ignition system failure (gas models)

How to Identify: Drum spins; igniter does not glow, or glows but gas does not ignite; no heat output on gas dryer.

Part: Igniter or gas valve solenoid / flame sensor

DIY Solutions

Test and replace blown thermal fuse

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver
  1. Unplug dryer and access back panel
  2. Locate thermal fuse on blower housing or near heat source
  3. Disconnect fuse and test continuity with multimeter
  4. Replace fuse if no continuity and reassemble
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is disconnected before opening housing

Inspect and replace heating element (electric)

Advanced 45-90 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdriver, replacement heating element
  1. Unplug dryer and remove appropriate panels
  2. Locate heating element housing
  3. Disconnect and test element for continuity
  4. Install new element if faulty and reassemble
⚠️ Safety First: Power must remain off; heating elements can have sharp edges

Check and clean vent and lint trap

Easy 10-30 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum or vent brush
  1. Remove lint screen and clean all lint
  2. Inspect vent hose to outside for blockages
  3. Clean vent duct and reconnect securely
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure vent to outdoors is clear

Professional Repairs

Replace gas ignition components

Estimated Cost: $100 - $300

Replace thermostat or control board

Estimated Cost: $80 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Gas dryer showing no ignition glow or suspected gas-related fault
Complex electrical diagnostic beyond basic part swaps
Repeated thermal fuse failures indicating deeper airflow or electrical issue

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter: Airflow restriction and overheating leading to blown thermal fuses
    Frequency: after every load
  • Clean vent ducts: Blocked airflow causing heat loss and safety cutoffs
    Frequency: annually or as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Dryer not heating?
Common causes include a blown thermal fuse, a failed heating element in electric models, or gas ignition system failure in gas models.
How do I fix Whirlpool Dryer not heating myself?
You can test and replace the thermal fuse, inspect and replace the heating element, or clean the vent and lint trap.
How much does it cost to fix not heating?
Professional repairs can range from $100 to $300 for gas ignition components and $80 to $350 for thermostat or control board replacements.
When should I call a technician for not heating?
If DIY solutions don't work or if you're uncomfortable with advanced repairs, it's best to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

67%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Thermal fuse failure (2 mentions)
  • Cycling thermostat failure (2 mentions)
  • Heating element failure (3 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replace the thermal fuse

    Success rate: 5.0%

  2. Replace the cycling thermostat

    Success rate: 5.0%

  3. Check and replace the heating element

    Success rate: 11.0%

  4. Check connections and components for intermittent heating

    Success rate: 5.0%

  5. Adjust dryer settings to resolve inconsistent heating

    Success rate: 5.0%

  6. Replace the igniter

    Success rate: 5.0%

  7. Check heating element or thermal fuses with a multimeter

    Success rate: 5.0%
Analysis based on 12 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. I just fixed my Whirlpool gas dryer and within 10 minutes it...
  2. Whirlpool dryer inconsistent heating
  3. How much to repair thermal fuse on Whirlpool dryer?
  4. Dryer throws E1 error despite many repairs
  5. When replacing a cycling thermostat on an old dryer, are ind...
  6. Whirlpool Front-Load Dryer Won't Heat
  7. Whirlpool duet spins but no coils don't heat up
  8. Stacked dryer not heating
  9. Whirlpool WED8000DW3 dryer put off a burnt smell. Took it a...
  10. Dryer: Whirlpool LGR4634EQ0 - Advice on which part to try fi...
  11. Whirlpool Duet Steam Dryer: Check Vent + Shut Off when dryin...
  12. Dryer Not Working and Repair Attempts Have Failed

Community Discussions

cycling thermostat went bad

Replaced both the cycling thermostat and thermostat heater.

DIY View on Reddit →

Check Vent light is on and dryer shuts off when drying comforter

The issue was caused by the bulk of the comforter preventing proper air flow.

DIY View on Reddit →

not heating

Found the heating element part and a video guide for replacement.

DIY View on Reddit →

thermal fuse failure

Repair cost estimates range from $200 to $350 depending on location and specific issues.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

dryer has stopped heating

Replace the igniter as it is likely the cause of the heating issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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