Tumble dryer doesn't heat up

Common causes -
• The heating elements can fail (open circuit)
• There are cut-outs and stats that can trip out (open circuit)
• Modern tumble dryers also have sensors and pcb's running software that can fail although most should produce an error code
• Faulty connections and burned wires

A tumble dryer that isn't heating up at all needs checking with a continuity test meter. The most common cause is a heating element failure, or t.o.c's going open circuit. It depends on which make and model of tumble dryer you have as to how easy it is to get to the relevant parts. Some tumble dryers have heating elements that are easily accessible by removing the back panel, and can be tested for continuity or checked for obvious breakage. Others though have their heating elements inside, which aren't accessible without stripping the dryer down. Tumble dryer heating elements are always protected by thermal fuses which are usually simple devices with 2 wires connected. They can be tested for continuity with a test meter.

The problem is that if a stat (thermostat) or t.o.c. (thermal overload cut-out) has gone open circuit, it may may be for a reason. Overheating could have caused it. Blocked filters or even overloading can cause it. Sometimes they can go for no apparent reason. A blocked or severely kinked vent hose can also cause overheating.

WARNING:A T.O.C. or thermostat should never be by-passed. They are there to stop serious overheating and a dryer could catch fire if one was run for any length of time with one by-passed.

Some White Knight tumble dryers (and possibly others) have a red button on the back which can reset a cut out by pushing it in (it should click when pressed if it has tripped). Again, if this happens more than once there must be something causing it, which needs proper investigation by an engineer.

Condenser dryer float switches: If you have a condenser dryer it will be designed to cut off the heater via a float switch if the drawer or compartment holding the condensed water gets full. Check the compartment has been emptied if the dryer stops heating although most condenser dryers now should have some way of informing the user that the drawer needs emptying such as via a flashing light. It is possible for one of these float switches to go faulty, or stick, therefore preventing the heating element from switching on.

Book appliance repair : If you want to find an engineer to repair your tumble dryer, washing machine, washer dryer, dishwasher, cooker, fridge, freezer or other kitchen appliance you can find a choice of repairers on my Book appliance repair page.