Whirlpool Dryer Not Heating?

Unplug the dryer before removing any panels. The heating element operates on 240V. Never run a dryer without the exhaust vent connected — this creates a fire hazard and voids your warranty.

Disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer and run the dryer for a few minutes. If it heats normally, the vent system is restricted. Clean the entire vent run from the dryer to the outside wall. Crushed, kinked, or excessively long vent runs are the #1 cause of Whirlpool dryer heating problems.

Open your breaker box and locate the dryer breaker. It should be a double breaker (240V). If one side has tripped, the dryer will tumble but not heat. Turn it fully off and back on. If it trips again, you have a wiring issue that needs an electrician.

On Whirlpool dryers, lint can bypass the screen and accumulate in the lint screen housing slot. Use a narrow vacuum attachment or a lint screen cleaning brush to clean inside the slot. This restriction can cause overheating and blow the thermal fuse.

The thermal fuse on most Whirlpool dryers is on the blower housing or exhaust duct at the back of the machine. It’s a small white or silver component with two wires. Test with a multimeter — it should show continuity. If it’s open, it’s blown and must be replaced.

The heating element is inside a metal housing, usually at the back of the dryer. Unplug the dryer, remove the back panel, and visually inspect the coil. If you see a break in the coil, the element has burned out. Test with a multimeter between the terminals — you should see some resistance (around 10–25 ohms).