Dryer Not Heating? Common Dryer Problems and How Our Atlanta Repair Techs Can Help
Common Dryer Problems and How Our Atlanta Repair Techs Can Help | Mr. Fixer Appliance Repair
If your dryer is running but your clothes are still coming out damp or cold, you're not alone. “Dryer not heating” is one of the most common complaints we hear from homeowners across Atlanta. Whether you have an electric or gas dryer, a loss of heat can disrupt your routine—and waste energy and time.
At Mr. Fixer Appliance Repair, we’ve repaired hundreds of dryers across metro Atlanta, and we’re breaking down everything you need to know: why your dryer isn’t heating, what you can do about it, and how to find expert dryer repair near you.
🔥 Why a Dryer Needs Heat to Work Properly
Your dryer heats up air and blows it through a rotating drum to evaporate moisture from your clothes. No heat = no dry clothes.
When your dryer isn't heating properly, it could be caused by several different components. The fix could be simple—or it may require a certified technician to safely handle gas or electrical repairs.
🔧 Top 7 Common Reasons a Dryer Isn’t Heating
1. Blown Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse is a safety feature that shuts off the heating element if the dryer overheats. If it’s blown, the dryer will run but not heat.
Signs:
Dryer runs but air is cold
You recently had a power surge or the dryer overheated
Fix: Replace the thermal fuse (requires disassembly).
🛠️ Professional replacement is recommended to avoid repeated overheating.
2. Faulty Heating Element
The heating element is what actually generates heat in an electric dryer. Over time, it can wear out or break.
Signs:
No heat even after restarting dryer
Clothes take hours to dry
Dryer gets warm, but never hot
Fix: Heating element replacement. This involves opening the dryer and testing for continuity with a multimeter.
3. Malfunctioning Gas Igniter (Gas Dryers Only)
In gas dryers, the igniter lights the burner to create heat. If it fails, the gas won’t ignite.
Signs:
Clicking or buzzing sound with no flame
Dryer tumbles, but clothes remain cold
You smell faint gas (warning: turn off immediately!)
Fix: Igniter or gas valve coil replacement. Only trained professionals should handle gas dryer repairs.
4. Defective Thermostat or High-Limit Thermostat
The thermostat regulates the internal temperature. If it’s not working, your dryer may overheat or underheat.
Signs:
Dryer cycles erratically
It heats up briefly, then shuts off
You get burning smells or scorching
Fix: Replace the thermostat after testing it with a multimeter.
5. Clogged Dryer Vent or Lint Trap
Believe it or not, poor airflow is a leading cause of heating issues. Lint build-up blocks the flow of hot air, causing your dryer to underperform—or overheat and shut off.
Signs:
Dryer is hot, but clothes don’t dry
Dryer exterior gets unusually hot
Burning smell or long dry times
Fix: Clean lint trap and entire vent system (recommended every 6–12 months).
6. Tripped Circuit Breaker or Blown Fuse
For electric dryers, two circuit breakers are used—one for the motor and one for the heating element. One may trip without you realizing it.
Signs:
Dryer tumbles but doesn’t heat
Recently had a power outage
Dryer won’t start after lightning storm
Fix: Reset the breaker. If it continues to trip, call an appliance repair technician.
7. Control Board or Timer Failure
If the electronic control board fails, it may not signal the heating element to turn on. This is less common, but does happen with modern smart dryers.
Signs:
No heat, no error code
Control panel flickers or doesn’t respond
Dryer turns on but immediately shuts off
Fix: Replace or reprogram the control board (requires diagnosis from a professional).
🧰 DIY vs. Professional Dryer Repair: What You Can Fix (and What You Shouldn’t)
If you’re handy, you might be tempted to troubleshoot yourself. Here’s a quick guide:
✅ Safe for DIY:
Clean the lint trap and vent
Check for tripped breakers
Unplug/replug the dryer (reset electronics)
🚫 Call a Professional If:
You smell burning or gas
You need to open the dryer’s back panel
You’re dealing with gas connections or electrical testing
You’ve already replaced a part and it still won’t heat
Dryer repairs can be risky. At Mr. Fixer, we’ve seen homeowners accidentally damage control boards or start fires by attempting DIY fixes.
📍 Local Atlanta Dryer Repair: Why Choose Mr. Fixer Appliance Repair?
We’re a trusted name in appliance repair throughout Atlanta because we offer what others don’t:
✔️ Same-Day Dryer Repair
We understand you can’t wait days for dry clothes. We offer same-day service in most Atlanta neighborhoods.
✔️ Experienced Technicians
Our certified techs are trained to handle all major dryer brands—Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, GE, Maytag, Electrolux, and more.
✔️ Upfront Pricing
No surprises. We provide honest estimates with no hidden fees.
✔️ Fully Stocked Vans
Most dryer repairs are completed on the first visit thanks to our large inventory of parts.
✔️ Local and Reliable
We’re based right here in Atlanta. No call centers. No national chains. Just real local technicians ready to help.
📞 Contact Us Today for Dryer Repair in Atlanta
If your dryer is acting up, don’t delay. Call the experts at Mr. Fixer Appliance Repair for a fast, stress-free solution.
📲 Call Now: 470-264-8887
We’re standing by to get your washer back to perfect working condition.
