Drying dilemma: solve your whirlpool dryer’s lack of heat today!
What To Know
- The heating element is usually located at the bottom of the dryer drum.
- You can also use a multimeter to test the continuity of the heating element.
- If the thermostat fails, it may not send the correct signal to the heating element, causing the dryer to not get hot.
If your Whirlpool dryer has suddenly stopped heating, you’re not alone. This is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons why your Whirlpool dryer isn’t getting hot and provide troubleshooting tips to help you fix the issue.
Electrical Issues
Electrical problems are one of the most common causes of dryer heating issues. Here are a few things to check:
- Power cord: Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet.
- Circuit breaker: Check if the circuit breaker that powers the dryer has tripped. If it has, reset it.
- Fuse: Check if the fuse that powers the dryer has blown. If it has, replace it with a new fuse of the same amperage.
Heating Element
The heating element is responsible for generating heat in the dryer. If it fails, your dryer will not get hot. Here’s how to check the heating element:
- Unplug the dryer: Before you start working on the dryer, make sure it is unplugged from the power outlet.
- Remove the back panel: Locate the screws that hold the back panel in place and remove them. Carefully lift the back panel off the dryer.
- Locate the heating element: The heating element is usually located at the bottom of the dryer drum. It is a metal coil with two wires attached to it.
- Check the heating element: Visually inspect the heating element for any signs of damage, such as breaks or burns. You can also use a multimeter to test the continuity of the heating element. If the heating element is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse is a safety device that prevents the dryer from overheating. If the thermal fuse blows, it will cut off power to the heating element. Here’s how to check the thermal fuse:
- Unplug the dryer: Before you start working on the dryer, make sure it is unplugged from the power outlet.
- Locate the thermal fuse: The thermal fuse is usually located near the heating element. It is a small, round device with two wires attached to it.
- Check the thermal fuse: Visually inspect the thermal fuse for any signs of damage, such as burns or breaks. You can also use a multimeter to test the continuity of the thermal fuse. If the thermal fuse is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Thermostat
The thermostat controls the temperature of the dryer. If the thermostat fails, it may not send the correct signal to the heating element, causing the dryer to not get hot. Here’s how to check the thermostat:
- Unplug the dryer: Before you start working on the dryer, make sure it is unplugged from the power outlet.
- Locate the thermostat: The thermostat is usually located near the heating element. It is a small, round device with two wires attached to it.
- Check the thermostat: Visually inspect the thermostat for any signs of damage, such as burns or breaks. You can also use a multimeter to test the continuity of the thermostat. If the thermostat is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Gas Valve
If you have a gas dryer, the gas valve may be the cause of your heating problems. Here’s how to check the gas valve:
- Turn off the gas supply: Before you start working on the dryer, make sure the gas supply is turned off.
- Locate the gas valve: The gas valve is usually located near the bottom of the dryer. It is a brass or copper valve with a knob or handle.
- Check the gas valve: Visually inspect the gas valve for any signs of damage, such as leaks or corrosion. You can also try turning the knob or handle to see if it is stuck. If the gas valve is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Other Possible Causes
If you have checked all of the above components and your Whirlpool dryer is still not getting hot, there may be another issue causing the problem. Here are a few other possible causes:
- Lint buildup: Lint buildup can block the airflow to the heating element, causing it to overheat and shut off. Clean the lint screen and exhaust vent regularly to prevent lint buildup.
- Faulty door switch: The door switch is responsible for detecting when the dryer door is closed. If the door switch is faulty, it may not send the correct signal to the heating element, causing the dryer to not get hot.
- Control board: The control board is the brain of the dryer. If the control board fails, it may not be able to send the correct signals to the heating element, causing the dryer to not get hot.
Wrapping Up
If you have tried all of the troubleshooting tips above and your Whirlpool dryer is still not getting hot, you may need to call a qualified appliance repair technician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Why is my Whirlpool dryer not getting hot?
A: There are a number of reasons why your Whirlpool dryer may not be getting hot, including electrical issues, a faulty heating element, a blown thermal fuse, a faulty thermostat, a faulty gas valve, lint buildup, a faulty door switch, or a faulty control board.
Q: How do I troubleshoot my Whirlpool dryer?
A: To troubleshoot your Whirlpool dryer, you can check the power cord, circuit breaker, and fuse. You can also check the heating element, thermal fuse, thermostat, and gas valve. If you are comfortable working on appliances, you can follow the troubleshooting tips in this blog post.
Q: How do I fix my Whirlpool dryer if it is not getting hot?
A: The best way to fix your Whirlpool dryer if it is not getting hot is to troubleshoot the problem and replace the faulty component. If you are not comfortable working on appliances, you should call a qualified appliance repair technician.