Whirlpool Dryers Not Heating: How to Fix It Yourself
When your Whirlpool dryer runs but does not produce heat, the most common cause is a blown thermal fuse or a burned-out heating element. Both are affordable parts you can replace yourself. The thermal fuse often blows because of restricted airflow, so check your vents and filters first.
⚠️ Safety First
- Always unplug the appliance from the wall before starting any repair work.
- Let the appliance cool completely before touching internal components. Heating elements and surrounding metal can cause burns.
- If you have a gas model, turn off the gas supply valve before working. If you smell gas at any point, stop immediately, leave the area, and call your gas company.
Parts You May Need
Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Unplug your Whirlpool dryer
Pull the power cord from the wall outlet. If you have a gas model, also turn off the gas supply valve behind the unit. Safety first — never work on a plugged-in appliance.
- 2
Check the power supply
Make sure the outlet is working by plugging in something else (like a lamp). Check your home's circuit breaker panel — the breaker for your dryer may have tripped. Flip it off, then back on.
- 3
Inspect the heating element
The heating element is the part that actually creates heat. On most Whirlpool dryers, you can access it by removing the back or bottom panel. Look for visible breaks, burn marks, or blistering on the element coil. A broken coil means the element needs replacing.
- 4
Test the thermal fuse
The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off heat if the dryer overheats. It is a small, flat piece usually near the heating element. If you have a multimeter, test it for continuity. No continuity means the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced (usually under $10).
- 5
Reassemble and test
Put the panels back on, plug the dryer back in (and turn the gas back on if applicable), and run a short cycle to see if it heats. If it does, you have fixed it! If not, the control board or thermostat may be the issue — that is a good time to call a pro.
If That Didn't Work
- A faulty high-limit thermostat can prevent the heating system from working.
- On gas models, the gas valve solenoids may need replacing.
When to Call a Professional
If replacing the thermal fuse and heating element does not fix your Whirlpool dryer, the main control board may be failing. Board replacement costs $100-$250 with parts and labor. Compare that to the cost of a new unit if yours is older than 8 years.
Related Repairs
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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