Struggling with a Whirlpool dryer that is not heating can disrupt your daily routine, leaving you with a pile of damp clothes. But there’s good news – resolving this issue is often simpler than it seems.
In this guide, we dive deep into the common causes behind a Whirlpool dryer’s lack of heat and provide straightforward solutions.
Common reasons for a Whirlpool dryer not heating include power supply issues, an overloaded drum, defective heating elements, and faulty solenoid valves.
Let’s unravel the mystery of a cold Whirlpool dryer together.
Table of Contents
How to Fix Whirlpool Dryer Not Heating?
First, you must find out why your Whirlpool dryer won’t heat, as it is the first step to solving the heating issue. Often, the problem lies in the power supply or control settings.
1. Power Supply Problem
A Whirlpool dryer stopped heating is often rooted in power supply problems.
This might be as straightforward as a power outage or as intricate as a malfunctioning component.
Tripped circuit breakers, damaged power cords, or a defective power outlet can all interrupt the flow of electricity to your dryer.
Such issues prevent the dryer from heating and can halt its operation entirely.
Easy Fix:
Begin by checking the simplest possibilities: ensure your dryer is firmly connected to a power source.
If a power outage is not the culprit, inspect the power cord for any signs of damage or wear.
Resetting a circuit breaker that has tripped might restore power to your dryer.
It’s crucial to avoid using extension cords, as they may not provide adequate power for your dryer’s needs.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the problem might lie within the power outlet or the dryer’s electrical system.
2. Overloaded Drum
Overloading your Whirlpool dryer is a practical issue that affects its functionality. When the drum is packed too tightly, air cannot circulate properly.
This poor airflow is crucial in drying your clothes and is necessary for the dryer to operate efficiently.
Without adequate space for air to move, the dryer’s ability to heat up and dry your clothes is compromised, leading to longer drying times and potential wear on the dryer’s components.
Easy Fix:
The solution here is straightforward: avoid overstuffing the dryer. A general guideline is to fill the drum to only about ¾ of its capacity.
This allows clothes to tumble freely, improving air circulation and enabling more efficient heating and drying.
Regularly adhering to this guideline not only improves the drying process but also extends the life of your dryer by preventing strain on its motor and heating elements.
3. Door Unlatched
A seemingly minor component, the door latch, plays a vital role in the safety and functionality of your dryer. If the dryer door isn’t securely closed, the latch won’t engage.
As a safety precaution, this prevents the Whirlpool dryer from starting. Issues with the door latch can stem from obstructions, damage, or normal wear and tear.
Easy Fix:
Inspect the door latch for any debris or objects obstructing it. Make sure the door is closing properly and that the latch clicks into place.
If the latch appears damaged or worn, it may need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple fix that can be done with basic tools.
Ensuring the door latch functions correctly is crucial for the safe operation of your dryer.
4. Control Panel Malfunction
The heart of your Whirlpool dryer’s functionality lies in its control panel.
A range of issues, from incorrect settings to a malfunctioning control board, can be behind a Whirlpool dryer that doesn’t spin or heat.
Sometimes, the problem is simply a matter of the dryer being set to a cycle that uses low or no heat, such as ‘Fluff’ or ‘Wrinkle Control.’
Other times, the control panel may have technical issues, preventing it from responding correctly to your input.
Easy Fix:
To tackle this, start with the basics: verify that the dryer is set to a suitable cycle for your laundry needs.
Avoid cycles designed for delicate items if you want to dry regular laundry.
If the settings seem appropriate, but the dryer still doesn’t start or heat, the issue may lie within the control panel’s electronics.
In such scenarios, a reset can often resolve minor software glitches.
If the problem persists, it’s likely a sign of a deeper malfunction, possibly requiring a control panel repair or replacement.
This type of repair is best left to professionals, as it involves intricate electronic components.
5. Defective Heating Element
The heating element in your Whirlpool dryer is fundamental to its ability to generate heat.
Over time, these elements can wear out or burn out, especially in electric dryers.
This results in the Whirlpool dryer not heating efficiently or not heating at all.
Signs of a defective heating element include a Whirlpool dryer that runs but doesn’t heat or takes too long to dry clothes.
Easy Fix:
To address a defective heating element, first, confirm the issue using a multimeter to check for continuity. If the heating element shows no continuity, it needs to be replaced.
This process involves accessing the dryer’s internal components, so ensuring the dryer is unplugged and safe to work on is important.
6. Insufficient Gas Supply (For Gas Dryers)
For those with gas Whirlpool dryers, an interruption in the gas supply is a common culprit when the dryer stops heating.
This interruption could be due to various factors, including closed gas valves or problems in the gas line.
These issues can prevent the gas from reaching the dryer’s burner, which is essential for heating.
Easy Fix:
Begin troubleshooting your Whirlpool gas dryer by examining the gas line.
Ensure that the main gas valve is open and that there are no visible signs of damage or disconnection along the line.
Suppose everything appears normal, but the dryer still isn’t heating.
In that case, the issue may be more complex, possibly involving the gas valve solenoid or other components within the dryer.
Dealing with gas appliances requires high caution and expertise due to the risks involved.
Therefore, if you suspect a more serious issue with the gas supply or the dryer’s internal gas components, it is strongly advised to contact a professional.
7. Faulty Solenoid Valve (For Gas Dryers)
In gas dryers, the solenoid valve regulates gas flow to the burner.
A faulty solenoid valve can prevent gas from reaching the burner; thus, the Whirlpool dryer won’t heat. This issue can be due to wear, damage, or electrical faults within the valve.
Easy Fix:
Test the solenoid valve with a multimeter for continuity. If the valve is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
It’s important to remember that working with gas appliances can be dangerous.
Therefore, if you’re not experienced in handling gas appliances, it’s best to call a qualified technician to replace the solenoid valve safely and correctly.
Also Read: Fix LG Dryer Not Heating
Final Words
In summary, this guide has walked you through various common issues that can cause a Whirlpool dryer to stop heating.
From power supply problems and overloaded drums to defective heating elements and faulty solenoid valves, we’ve covered a range of scenarios.
Each problem is accompanied by an easy-to-follow solution tailored to both electric and gas dryers. While many of these fixes can be done at home, safety should always be your top priority.
You can fix your Whirlpool dryer not heating properly with the insights and steps provided.
Steven Settles is an ISCET-certified master in appliance repair. He has aced the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam, showcasing his exceptional diagnostic and repair skills. With an in-depth understanding of the latest repair technologies and a keen eye on evolving industry standards, Steven is a go-to expert for any appliance issue.