Why does my dryer only heat intermittently?

Have you ever thrown a load of laundry into your dryer, expecting warm, fluffy clothes only to find them still damp and cold? It’s frustrating when your dryer heats up one moment and cools down the next. If you’re wondering why your dryer only heats intermittently, you’re not alone. Many homeowners face this puzzling problem, and the good news is, there are DIY solutions you can try before considering a replacement.

Important: The information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for all kinds of DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes, part replacements, etc. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the manufacturer’s documentation for your specific appliance model or contact us with any questions.

Common reasons your dryer heats intermittently

Understanding why your dryer is acting up is the first step toward fixing it. Several parts can cause intermittent heating, and identifying the culprit can save you time and money.

1. Clogged venting system

A blocked vent can cause your dryer to overheat and shut off the heating element as a safety measure.

Cleaning the venting system

• Disconnect the dryer from the power source.
• Remove the vent hose from the back of the dryer.
• Check for lint buildup in the hose and the vent leading outside.
• Use a vacuum or vent cleaning brush to remove any obstructions.
• Reattach the vent hose securely.

2. Malfunctioning thermostat

The thermostat regulates the temperature inside your dryer. A faulty thermostat can cause the dryer to overheat or not heat enough.

Testing the thermostat

• Disconnect the power and locate the thermostat, usually near the heating element.
• Remove the thermostat and use a multimeter to perform a resistance test.
• Set the multimeter to measure resistance (ohms).
• Refer to your dryer’s manual for the expected resistance value of the thermostat at room temperature.
• Measure the resistance across the thermostat’s terminals.
• If the resistance is not within the specified range, replace the thermostat.

3. Faulty cycling thermostat

The cycling thermostat controls the on-and-off cycles of the heating element to maintain a consistent temperature. If it’s malfunctioning, it can cause the dryer to heat intermittently.

Testing the cycling thermostat

• Unplug the dryer and locate the cycling thermostat, typically located near the blower housing or exhaust vent.
• Remove the thermostat and use a multimeter to perform a resistance test at room temperature.
• Set the multimeter to measure resistance (ohms).
• Compare the measured resistance to the specifications in your dryer’s manual.
• If the resistance is not within the specified range, or if the thermostat doesn’t function properly during testing, replace it.

4. Faulty heating element

The heating element is the heart of your dryer’s heating system. If it’s damaged or worn out, it may heat inconsistently.

Identifying a faulty heating element

• Unplug your dryer and locate the heating element. Refer to your manufacturer’s guide or our step-by-step guide on replacing a dryer heating element.
• Check the heating element for any visible breaks or burns.
• Use a multimeter to perform a resistance test.
• Set the multimeter to measure resistance (ohms).
• Touch the probes to the terminals of the heating element.
• Compare the measured resistance to the specifications provided by your dryer’s manufacturer.
• If the resistance is not within the specified range, the heating element is faulty and needs replacement.

Need a new heating element? Check out high-quality dryer parts available on our website.

5. Igniter issues in gas dryers

For gas dryers, the igniter lights the gas to produce heat. A weak or failing igniter can cause intermittent heating.

Inspecting the igniter

• Turn off the gas supply and unplug the dryer.
• Locate the igniter near the gas valve.
• Look for visible cracks or damage.
• Test the igniter’s resistance with a multimeter. Refer to your model’s specifications for the correct resistance value.
• If the resistance is outside the specified range, replace the igniter.

For more details on how gas dryers work, visit our article on how gas dryers work.

Tools you’ll need for troubleshooting

Having the right tools makes the troubleshooting process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Multimeter: An essential tool for testing electrical parts. It measures resistance (how much a part resists the flow of electricity) and can check for continuity (an unbroken path in the circuit).
• Screwdrivers: Both Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers for removing panels and parts.
• Needle-nose pliers: Helpful for disconnecting wires and removing small parts.
• Vacuum or brush: For cleaning out lint and debris from the venting system.

Not sure how to use a multimeter? Check out our guide on how to use a multimeter to test appliance parts.

Safety precautions

Before diving into any repairs, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Always unplug the dryer from the power source before inspecting or repairing.
• Turn off the gas supply if you have a gas dryer.
• Wear safety gloves and goggles to protect against sharp edges and debris.
• Refer to your dryer’s manual for model-specific instructions.

When to seek additional help

If you’ve tried the above solutions and your dryer still heats intermittently, there may be more complex problems, such as issues with the control board or timer.

Don’t worry; we’re here to help. Visit our repair help section for more detailed guides and troubleshooting tips. You can also explore our article on Gas Dryer Isn’t Heating: Top 5 Reasons and Fixes for additional insights.

Keep your dryer running smoothly

Regular maintenance can prevent many common dryer problems. Clean the lint filter after every use, inspect the venting system periodically, and address minor problems before they escalate. Remember, identifying your dryer’s model number can make finding the right parts and instructions much easier.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, you can find more resources including our DIY blog at AppliancePartsPros.com. There, you can enter your model number to order the exact parts you need. Most orders arrive in two business days.

You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel.Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!