Appliances · checked 5 Oct 2026
The dryer runs but doesn't heat
Safety first
- Smell gas? Leave immediately. Never touch switches or unplug anything.
- From outside, call 911 and your gas utility.
- Otherwise, stop the dryer and let it cool.
Fix it nowEight steps
- Without gas smell, stop the dryer and let it cool.Check safely before another test.
- Remove lint from the lint screen; reinstall it before running.A clean screen supports airflow and reduces fire risk.
- Inspect visible venting without moving the dryer; stop if crushed or damaged.Restricted venting needs correction before another test.
The other five steps
- Electric only: dry, undamaged panel? Reset labeled dryer breaker OFF, then ON once.Use handles only; never remove the panel cover.
- Select Timed Dry with heat, not Air Only or Air Fluff.No-heat cycles tumble clothes without warming them.
- Run empty five minutes; stay nearby, then stop and check for warmth.This checks whether heating has returned.
- For vented dryers, check outdoor flap movement during testing, only from ground level.A flap that stays closed can indicate restricted airflow.
- Still cold? Stop using it and book an appliance technician.Internal heating repairs require professional diagnosis.
When to stop
Stop and get a appliance technician if:
- Gas smell or hissing: leave immediately; never touch switches. Outside, call 911 and your gas utility.
- Smoke or flames: leave and call 911 from outside.
- Burning smell, scorching, sparks, or a hot plug: stop using it; get professional help.
- Breaker trips again, or the panel is wet, hot, buzzing, or damaged: stop; call an electrician.
- Vent is crushed, damaged, or has no airflow, or the dryer stays cold: stop; book an appliance technician.
What it probably is
No-heat setting selectedAir Only or Air Fluff is selected; these settings supply no heat.You can check
Electric dryer lost part of its powerThe drum turns, but the dryer breaker is tripped.You can check
Restricted airflowLint buildup, crushed venting, or an outdoor flap that won't open. Only accessible lint-screen cleaning is DIY.You can check
Internal heating failureA heated cycle stays cold after basic checks; an appliance technician must diagnose it.For a pro
Gas supply or burner problemA gas dryer tumbles without heat. Leave gas valves and lines alone.For a pro
Time and parts
- Time
- About 10–15 minutes for basic checks.
- Parts
- $0; no replacement parts for these checks.
Get it done
More than a quick fix? Vora gets quotes privately and recommends one appliance technician.
Checked against
- Whirlpool: Not Heating — Electric Dryer
- Whirlpool: Dryer Not Heating Troubleshooting Guide
- U.S. Fire Administration: Clothes Dryer Fire Safety
- Atmos Energy: Natural Gas Safety Guide
Written for Vora from these public sources and checked on 5 Oct 2026. General guidance, not a substitute for a pro on site. In danger, leave and call 911.