Does your dryer turn on, the cycle starts, but it’s not drying your clothes? Learn about why the dryer has drying issues – from clogged vents to a faulty thermostat, and find practical solutions. This article will help you diagnose the problem, avoid hazards, and know when it’s time to call a pro. Book our dryer repair service:
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Reasons Why the Dryer Is Not Drying
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Lint Buildup
Lint buildup is the number one reason dryers overheat. Even if you clean the lint filter after every cycle, lint still gets into the vents, inside the body of the dryer, and around the heating element. It acts like insulation, trapping heat, and it can easily catch fire if it gets too hot. People are usually shocked when we open up their dryer and show them how much lint has built up over the year. It’s even worse in homes with kids or pets — hair, fur, and tiny fibers pile up fast.
Solution
You’ll need to unplug the dryer, take it apart, and do a full cleaning of all the internal vents. That means removing the panel, cleaning the ductwork, the fan blades, and the areas around the heating element. Sometimes, the thermal fuse might have blown from overheating and will need replacing. Also, don’t forget to check the vent pipe going outside — even a partial blockage can cause heat buildup.
Pro Tip:
It’s a good idea to have your dryer professionally cleaned once a year — especially if it’s installed against a wall with a long vent line.
Restricted Airflow
Dryers only work well when hot air can flow out properly. If the airflow gets restricted — from bent vents, crushed ducts, or blockages — the heat gets trapped and the dryer overheats. It can also be caused by a clogged fan, a weak motor, or dirty filters. In my experience, this is the second most common issue, especially in laundry rooms or closets where the dryer is packed in tight.
Solution
Start by checking the lint filter. Then look at the vent hose behind the dryer and the vent that goes outside. Any bends, pinches, or loose connections can mess things up. Next, inspect the fan motor and blades — if they’re dirty or worn out, airflow will be weak.
Pro Tip:
Avoid using flexible plastic ducts — they kink easily and trap lint. Stick to rigid metal ducts with as few bends as possible. Also check the outside vent — leaves, dust, or even bird nests can block it.
Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat controls your dryer’s internal temperature. It’s supposed to shut off the heat once things get hot enough. If it stops working or gives bad readings, the dryer might keep heating even after it should’ve stopped. This can blow fuses or even start a fire. A burning smell or clothes that come out too hot are signs something’s wrong.
Solution
Start by testing the thermostat and thermal fuses with a multimeter. If there’s no continuity or if it doesn’t react properly to heat — replace it. Also check the control board to rule out electrical issues. Always replace with the exact right model — thermostats need to be properly calibrated to work correctly.
Pro Tip:
If even lightweight clothes come out scorching hot, your thermostat’s probably done for. Don’t wait until the fuse blows — swap it out early.
Heating Element Issues
The heating element is basically the heart of your dryer. If it shorts out, gets too hot, or is damaged, it might keep heating even when the thermostat says stop. That’s a serious issue. I’ve seen melted plastic and burnt wires from this. The element can wear out from age or from constantly running on high heat.
Solution
Look for any cracks, scorching, or signs of overheating on the element. Then use a multimeter to check for resistance and grounding. If it’s shorted or has low resistance — replace it. Also check the wiring and terminals — bad connections can cause overheating too. Always install a certified replacement for your specific model.
Pro Tip:
When you replace a heating element, always check the thermostat and the fan too. Sometimes the element isn’t the root of the problem — poor airflow or control issues can cause it to overheat.
Worn Drum Seals
Drum seals help keep the hot air inside where it’s supposed to be. Over time, they wear down — usually around the front and back of the drum. When that happens, hot air escapes into the dryer’s body, overheating parts and throwing off the temperature control. I see this a lot in dryers older than 7 years or in machines that are overloaded all the time.
Solution
Look for cracks, tears, or general wear on the drum seals. If they’re damaged — replace both the front and back seals. It’s also a good time to replace the drum rollers or guides to make sure it spins smoothly.
Pro Tip:
If your dryer starts making scraping sounds or the drum feels loose — that’s usually a sign the seals are wearing out. Don’t wait for the motor to overheat or for a roller to snap — fix it sooner rather than later.
Repair Cost
| Heating element replacing | $180 – $290 |
| Thermostat repairing or replacing | $220-$320 |
| Dryer Cleaning | $120-$310 |
Dryer repair costs can differ depending on the brand, model, and how complex the problem is to diagnose and repair. If you’re experiencing issues with your dryer, our appliance repair Tampa team is ready to help with fast and reliable service.
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6 Comments
Hello! Is it possible to clean the dryer vent ducts and housing from lint by yourself?
Hi Daniel! Some lint can be removed by yourself by disconnecting the vent hose and cleaning it with a vacuum cleaner or brush. But a full internal cleaning of the dryer, including the fan and heating element, requires disassembly and is best left to a professional.
I cleaned the dryer, but it’s still overheating after the cleaning. What should I do in this case?
Hi Matthew! If the dryer continues to overheat after cleaning, the thermostat, thermal fuse, or heating element might be faulty. It’s also worth checking the exterior vent grille. In such cases, it’s better to call a technician for proper diagnostics and repair.
Why do burnt holes appear on clothes after drying? Could this be caused by the drum overheating?
Hi William! Yes, burnt holes on clothes are often caused by the drum overheating. This happens if the thermostat doesn’t shut off the heat in time or if lint blocks the insulation. As a result, fabric is exposed to excessive heat, which causes damage. In this situation, it’s best to stop using the dryer and call a professional.
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