First: airflow, always
Before any part is suspected, the vent gets checked. A restricted vent overheats the dryer, which trips safety devices and can imitate a heating failure. It also doubles drying time and is a genuine fire risk.
The thermal fuse
This one-time safety fuse blows when the dryer overheats, and on many models it kills heat or the whole machine. It is inexpensive — but it blew for a reason, which is why the vent comes first.
The heating element (electric)
Elements burn open like a light-bulb filament. A continuity test settles it in seconds, and elements are replaceable on every major brand.
The igniter and flame sensor (gas)
On gas dryers, a cracked igniter or a failed flame sensor means no flame, no heat — while the drum keeps tumbling as if nothing happened.
The cycling thermostat
This part regulates temperature through the cycle. When it fails closed or open, dryers overheat, underheat, or shut off early.
When to call
Heating circuits involve live voltage and gas valves. If airflow is clear and the dryer still won't heat, our dryer repair service tests the circuit in sequence and replaces only what failed.