Dryer won’t heat? This is one of the most common issues that people encounter with their dryer, it is also the type of problem that you should call for dryer repair. If you are able to address this problem as soon as possible, it will save you a lot of time and money spent at the laundromat. There are different parts that could cause this to happen, depending on whether the dryer is gas or electric. You can also explain the issue when you call for appliance repair in Chico.
ELECTRIC DRYERS
Whether the dryer is gas or electric, there are inherent dangers when you are working on a dryer. The proper training and tools are needed in order to avoid injury. Here are the most likely and common reasons as to why your electric dryer is not heating up.
HEATING COILS
The heating coils are copper coils that generate and dispense the heat throughout the dryer. These coils can be tested for continuity with an electrical continuity tester (AKA a hot stick) and if there is no continuity, they will need to be replaced.
CYCLING THERMOSTAT
This is a thermostat in your dryer that regulates the amount of heat and the temperature in your drying drum while your clothes are tumbling. If this thermostat is broken, it will cause your dryer to stop producing heat and will need to be replaced.
THERMOSTAT
This thermostat, like the cycling thermostat, is a safety feature that won’t allow the dryer to produce too much heat within the machine. There are two different things that can be causing the thermostat to stop heat production in the dryer:
- A Broken Thermostat- Thermostats can wear out or break. This is a cheap part to replace, but it is something that will require a professional to come in to inspect the machine for a broken thermostat.
- Clogged Vents and Screens- Clogged vents and screens restrict the heat from dissipating out of the machine and this build up will trigger the thermostat to stop heat production. Check the vents and screens for lint build up to make sure that this is not the source of the problem.
GAS DRYERS
These are an uncommon type of dryer, but they are definitely not outdated or no longer used. There are 3 different possible reasons why your gas dryer is not heating up properly.
RADIANT FLAME SENSORS
This sensor monitors the pilot flame in your gas dryer. The dryer may have stop heating up because the pilot flame is not igniting or creating enough heat to trigger the sensor. The sensor was built to recognize this issue and it will not allow the dryer to heat up.
IGNITER
The igniter creates the spark that lights the pilot so that the dryer is able to generate heat. When the igniter is not working properly or broken, the dryer is not going to be able to generate heat for use. Make sure that you disconnect the power and gas to the dryer before attempting to check the igniter.
CONTROL VALVE
This valve controls the amount of gas that enters the ignition area because if too much gas were to get into this area, it could result in serious safety concerns. A malfunctioning or broken control valve will stop the dryer from getting hot and will need to be repaired or replaced,
Dryers can be dangerous to work on and the danger depends on the type of dryer. Electric dryers run on 240 volts and this is enough to cause injury. Gas dryers can pose real fire hazards if they are not properly cared for and maintained. A repair technician is the best option when your dryer breaks because they come armed with the proper tools and training to get the job done.