Dryer not heating? Here's what to check before calling a pro

A dryer that tumbles but doesn't heat is one of the most common service calls we get — and it's usually one of three things. Two of those you can check yourself before you book; the third is what we're here for.

1. 01

   Tripped half-breaker (electric dryers only)

   DIY2 min

   Electric dryers run on 240V — meaning two 120V breakers tied together. If only one trips, the motor still runs (it's 120V), but the heating element gets no power. Result: drum spins, no heat. Open your breaker panel. Find the dryer breaker. Flip it all the way off, then back on. If the dryer heats now, you're done.

2. 02

   Blocked vent

   Possible DIY15 min check

   A clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard and a heat killer — modern dryers have a thermal cut-out that shuts off heat if the exhaust airflow drops below spec. Pull the dryer from the wall, disconnect the vent hose from the back, and check for lint. While you're there, run the dryer for 10 seconds with the vent disconnected — if it heats, your vent is your problem. (Don't run it that way for long; vent it outside.)

3. 03

   Blown heating element or igniter

   Call us30–45 min visit

   If 1 and 2 check out, this is almost certainly your issue. Electric dryers have a heating element (a coil that glows red when hot); gas dryers have an igniter that lights a gas valve. Both wear out, both are tested with a multimeter, and both are a ~$140–$250 repair when you book a tech with the part on the truck.

What we don't recommend

Cost expectations (LA, 2026)

Most of these are first-visit repairs because we stock the part on the truck. Book online and we'll text the arrival window.