Why does my LG dryer tumble but not heat?

You’ve just loaded your LG dryer with a fresh batch of laundry, set the timer, and pressed start. The drum begins to tumble, but after the cycle ends, you find your clothes still damp and cold. If your LG dryer tumbles but doesn’t heat, you’re not alone, and there’s a good chance you can fix the problem yourself. We’ll explore the possible reasons and how you can get your dryer back to optimal performance.

Important notice

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 documentation for your specific appliance model or contact us with any questions.

Common reasons your LG dryer isn’t heating

Several factors can cause your dryer to tumble without producing heat. Understanding these common issues is the first step toward a DIY fix.

1. Power supply issues

Believe it or not, your dryer’s heating problem might be as simple as a power issue. Electric dryers require 240 volts to operate correctly, using two 120-volt circuits. If one circuit breaker trips, the dryer may still run but won’t heat.

2. Defective heating element

The heating element is the heart of your electric dryer’s heating system. If it’s broken or burned out, the dryer won’t produce heat even though the drum is tumbling.

3. Faulty thermal fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device that prevents the dryer from overheating. If it blows due to excessive heat, it cuts off power to the heating element, causing the dryer to stop producing heat.

4. Malfunctioning thermostat

The cycling thermostat regulates the dryer’s temperature. If it’s not functioning correctly, the dryer might not heat up at all or could overheat, leading to a blown thermal fuse.

5. Broken igniter (for gas dryers)

If you have a gas dryer, a faulty igniter can prevent the burner from lighting, resulting in no heat. The igniter heats up to ignite the gas, so if it’s broken, the gas won’t ignite, and the dryer won’t heat.

6. Clogged ventilation system

A blocked vent can cause your dryer to overheat and trip safety devices like the thermal fuse. Regular cleaning of the vent system keeps your dryer running efficiently.

How to diagnose and fix the problem

Now that we’ve identified potential culprits, let’s explore how you can diagnose and fix these issues yourself. Test components in order from the simplest to the most complicated, starting with the exterior and moving inward.

Safety first: preparation

Before you begin any repair, always disconnect your dryer from the power source. Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet or turn off the circuit breaker. For gas dryers, shut off the gas supply valve to prevent leaks.

Tools you’ll need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat-head)
• Multimeter
• Needle-nose pliers
• Vacuum cleaner or dryer vent brush

What Is a Multimeter? A multimeter is a handheld tool used to measure electrical voltage, current, and resistance. It’s essential for testing components like the heating element, thermal fuse, and thermostat.

Step 1: Checking the power supply

Start with the simplest test—checking the power supply:

1. Locate your home’s electrical panel and find the circuit breakers for your dryer. There should be two.
2. Reset both breakers by switching them off and then back on.
3. Plug in your dryer and test to see if it heats up during a cycle.

If resetting the breakers doesn’t work, you may need to test the outlet with a multimeter to verify it’s providing the correct voltage:

1. Set your multimeter to the AC voltage setting, set to measure at least 240 volts.
2. Carefully insert the multimeter probes into the outlet slots to measure the voltage across the two hot terminals. The reading should be approximately 240 volts AC.
3. Measure between each hot terminal and the neutral (or ground). Each should read approximately 120 volts AC.

If the outlet is not providing the correct voltage, you may need to consult an electrician.

Step 2: Cleaning the ventilation system

A clogged vent is an exterior issue that can cause heating problems. Clean the ventilation system before proceeding to internal components:

1. Disconnect the dryer from the vent hose.
2. Use a vacuum cleaner or a specialized dryer vent brush to remove lint and debris from the hose and vent.
3. Check the exterior vent where air exits your home and clean it as well.
4. Reattach the vent hose securely to the dryer.

After cleaning, run the dryer to see if the heating issue is resolved.

Step 3: Testing the thermal fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device that interrupts power to the heating element if the dryer overheats. Testing the thermal fuse is a relatively simple task:

1. Make sure the dryer is unplugged.
2. Access the thermal fuse. It is usually located on the blower housing or near the heating element.
3. Disconnect the wires from the thermal fuse terminals.
4. Set your multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting.
5. Place the multimeter probes on the fuse terminals.
6. A good fuse should show a resistance close to zero ohms. If the multimeter shows infinite resistance (open circuit), the fuse has blown and needs replacement.

Note: Always use the resistance setting for accurate measurements. Continuity mode may not provide enough information.

Step 4: Inspecting the heating element

Next, test the heating element itself:

1. Access the heating element by disassembling your dryer. For guidance, check out our guide on How To Disassemble A Dryer.
2. Visually inspect the heating element for any breaks or burns.
3. Set your multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting.
4. Place the multimeter probes on the heating element terminals.
5. The expected resistance for a functioning heating element is typically between 10 and 50 ohms, depending on the model.
6. If the multimeter shows infinite resistance (open circuit) or significantly deviates from the expected resistance range, the heating element is defective and needs to be replaced.

Step 5: Examining the thermostat

The cycling thermostat regulates the temperature inside the dryer. To test it:

1. Locate the thermostat, typically near the heating element or blower housing.
2. Disconnect the wires from the thermostat terminals.
3. Set your multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting.
4. Place the multimeter probes on the thermostat terminals.
5. A functioning thermostat should show a resistance close to zero ohms at room temperature.
6. If the multimeter shows infinite resistance (no continuity), the thermostat is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Note: Some thermostats are designed to open and close at certain temperatures. Refer to your dryer’s manual for specific resistance values and testing procedures.

Step 6: For gas dryers – checking the igniter

If you have a gas dryer, test the igniter:

1. Access the igniter by removing the front panel of your dryer.
2. Visually inspect the igniter for cracks or damage.
3. Set your multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting.
4. Place the probes on the igniter terminals.
5. The expected resistance for a functioning igniter is typically between 50 and 400 ohms.
6. If the reading is outside this range or shows infinite resistance, the igniter is defective and needs replacement.

Step 7: Checking other components

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, consider testing other components such as thermostats, thermal cut-off switches, or even the control board. Consult your dryer’s service manual for specific testing procedures and expected resistance values.

Preventive measures for optimal dryer performance

Regular maintenance can prevent many common dryer problems. Here are some tips to keep your LG dryer running smoothly:

Clean the lint filter after every use

A clean lint filter improves air circulation and prevents overheating. Simply remove the filter, clear off the lint, and reinsert it before each drying cycle.

Inspect and clean the vent system annually

At least once a year, thoroughly clean the vent system. This not only promotes efficient drying but also reduces the risk of fire caused by lint buildup.

Use the appropriate dryer settings

Selecting the right drying cycle for your laundry load can prevent unnecessary strain on the dryer’s components and save energy.

Regularly check for loose or damaged parts

Occasionally inspect your dryer for any loose screws, worn belts, or other signs of wear and tear. Addressing small issues early can prevent major problems down the line.

Still need assistance?

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your dryer still isn’t heating, don’t worry—we’re here to help. Visit our Repair Help section for more detailed guides and support. You can also find replacement LG dryer parts that are guaranteed to fit your model.

Not sure about your dryer’s model number? Learn how to find it with our guide on How to Find Your Appliance’s Model Number.

For personalized assistance, feel free to reach out to our experienced team. We’re committed to helping you get your appliances back in top shape.

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