FixGrid Academy — Field checklist
Dryer No Heat
Electric dryer (residential) · Intermediate
Tumbles but no heat. Prove airflow and the safety string before you buy an element.
1Safety first
- Unplug the dryer or open the 240V breaker.
- Confirm dead with a non-contact tester at the terminal block.
- Watch sharp sheet metal edges inside the cabinet.
- Gloves and eye protection; stage hand tools and a vacuum.
2First checks
- Confirm the complaint on a heated cycle — not air fluff.
- Check both legs of 240V at the terminal block.
- Check the lint filter, then the exhaust duct and outside vent flap.
- Feel exhaust airflow at the wall cap while running.
3Narrow the system
- Split it: supply voltage vs airflow/overheat vs heat circuit component.
- Look for lint packed in the blower housing and duct run.
- Note any signs of past overheating around the heater housing.
- Confirm the cycling and high-limit thermostats are in the circuit.
4Highest-probability tests
- Test the heating element for continuity and for a short to the housing.
- Test the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat for continuity.
- Test the cycling thermostat and centrifugal switch as applicable.
- Verify the timer/control actually calls for heat.
5Common outcomes and watch-outs
- Most common: open element with a restricted exhaust as the real root cause.
- A blown thermal fuse is a symptom — find the restriction that opened it.
- Clear the full duct run, not just the transition hose.
- Verify heat, exhaust temperature, and airflow before you leave.