Dryer running but not heating? A recent Riverside repair reveals what might be wrong.
Last week, a homeowner in Riverside, CA contacted us with a common issue: “My dryer still runs, but it’s not getting hot.”
This is one of the most frustrating problems, when your clothes tumble endlessly, but they’re still damp at the end of the cycle. It can be tempting to assume it’s just the heating element. But as we’ve seen many times, that’s not always the full story.
Initial signs: Dryer works but doesn’t heat
Upon arrival, our technician did a quick inspection and confirmed the issue: the dryer powered on and turned the drum, but it didn’t produce any heat at all. This is a common symptom of a heating system failure, but the root cause can vary.
So, why is your dryer not heating up but runs?
Here are the most common causes we see in Riverside homes:
- Burned-out heating element (already replaced by client in this case)
- Blown thermal fuse, often caused by overheating or blocked vents
- Faulty high-limit thermostat
- Broken timer or cycling thermostat
- Wiring issues or broken terminal block
- Clogged dryer vent reducing airflow
In this job, the customer had already replaced one heating element, but the dryer was still cold. Our team discovered the real culprit: a faulty thermal fuse and lint buildup in the vent system, which caused overheating and continuous fuse failure.
What else can go wrong even after replacing a heating element?
If your dryer still doesn’t heat after replacing the element, it’s likely:
- A blown thermal fuse that wasn't addressed
- A faulty thermostat that prevents the heating circuit from engaging
- Ventilation issues causing airflow restrictions
- Electrical connections that are burnt or loose
Our technician replaced the thermal fuse, cleaned the vent thoroughly, tested all thermostats, and ensured the circuit was safe. Once everything was reassembled, the dryer produced strong, consistent heat.
How to fix a dryer that’s not heating (the right way)
You might be tempted to try a DIY repair, but misdiagnosing the problem can lead to wasted parts and time. At Express Dryer Repair, we don’t guess—we test.
If your dryer works but doesn’t heat, here’s what we recommend:
- Stop running the dryer to avoid further damage.
- Clean the lint trap and check the vent line.
- Call a licensed tech to inspect components like the thermal fuse, thermostat, and wiring.
- Avoid multiple DIY part swaps—one wrong step can trigger more failures.
Need help in Riverside or nearby? Call us today.
We provide fast, affordable, and expert dryer repair in Riverside County, including Riverside, Eastvale, Corona, Norco, Moreno Valley, Chino Hills, and surrounding areas. Call us today or book your repair online to get your dryer fixed fast!
