If your electric clothes dryer spins but does not produce heat, here are some steps to troubleshoot and possibly resolve the issue:
1. Check the Power Supply
- Ensure the Dryer is Getting Proper Voltage:
Electric dryers require 240V to heat up. If one of the two power legs supplying the dryer isn't working (e.g., only 120V is supplied), the dryer will spin but not heat.
- Use a multimeter to check for 240V at the wall outlet.
- If there is no 240V, check your circuit breaker and reset it if necessary. Sometimes only one breaker leg trips.
2. Inspect the Heating Element
- Over time, the heating element can break or burn out.
- Steps:
- Unplug the dryer and locate the heating element (usually at the back of the unit, behind a panel).
- Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If there’s no continuity, the heating element needs replacement.
3. Test Thermal Fuse
- A thermal fuse is a safety feature that shuts off the heat if the dryer overheats. If it blows, the dryer will spin but won't heat.
- Steps:
- Unplug the dryer and locate the thermal fuse (near the blower housing or the heating element).
- Use a multimeter to test for continuity. Replace the fuse if it’s blown.
- If the thermal fuse is blown, investigate why the dryer overheated (e.g., blocked vents or lint buildup).
4. Check the High-Limit Thermostat
- The high-limit thermostat prevents the dryer from overheating. If it’s faulty, it may prevent the heating element from turning on.
- Test for continuity with a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
5. Inspect the Cycling Thermostat
- This component regulates the temperature by turning the heating element on and off. If it’s defective, the dryer might not heat.
- Test it for continuity and replace if needed.
6. Test the Timer or Control Board