Recent Job: Dryer Not Heating – Chicago, IL
Location: Chicago, IL
Appliance: Whirlpool Electric Dryer
Issue: Dryer running but not producing heat; clothes stayed damp after full cycles
Turnaround: Same-day repair – heating element replaced and vent cleaned
Tech on site: Slava
5.0
“Slava is awesome! Called and came early. Explained the problem. Very nice, clean, and thorough. Dryer is fixed!”
— Tracy Paskiewicz, Chicago, IL
What happened
When Tracy called Ivan Appliance Repair, her dryer was running but producing no heat. Each cycle finished with cold, damp clothes, even after extended drying times. She had tried resetting the breaker and cleaning the lint screen, but the issue persisted.
Our technician Slava arrived the same day and immediately began inspecting the dryer. After performing a quick continuity test, he found the heating element had burned out, which is one of the most common causes of a dryer not heating properly.
Slava replaced the faulty element with a new OEM part, then checked the thermal fuse and vent duct to make sure the unit had proper airflow. Once repaired, the dryer reached full temperature quickly and operated safely.
Why is my dryer not heating?
If your dryer turns on but doesn’t produce heat, there are several possible causes. Our Chicago appliance repair experts commonly find the following issues:
- Burnt heating element – Over time, elements wear out from repeated exposure to high heat.
- Blown thermal fuse – A safety fuse will trip if airflow is blocked or the unit overheats.
- Faulty thermostat or high-limit switch – Prevents the dryer from reaching or maintaining heat.
- Clogged dryer vent – One of the most overlooked reasons; restricted airflow causes overheating and early failure.
- Broken power connection – Electric dryers need both legs of the 240V circuit working. If one trips, the drum may turn but no heat is produced.
How our technician fixed the problem
Slava’s inspection confirmed the heating element was open (no continuity). He safely disconnected the dryer, removed the back panel, and replaced the element assembly. While reassembling, he cleaned out built-up lint around the housing and tested the air duct to make sure airflow was clear.
Once finished, he ran a timed dry cycle — within minutes, the drum reached the proper operating temperature and maintained it consistently. Tracy’s dryer was fully functional again the same day.
Common reasons a dryer stops heating
Our Chicago repair team handles dryer not heating calls almost every day. Here are the most common culprits:
- Lint buildup restricting airflow.
- Worn or burnt-out heating element.
- Failed thermal fuse or cycling thermostat.
- Blocked exhaust vent between the dryer and the outside wall.
- Loose power connections at the wall outlet or inside the terminal block.
Ignoring these issues can lead to overheating or even pose a fire risk — that’s why prompt repair and regular cleaning are so important.
Dryer maintenance tips to prevent heating issues
Regular maintenance is the best way to keep your dryer running efficiently and safely. Here are some simple tips our technicians recommend:
- Clean the lint filter after every load. Even a thin layer of lint restricts airflow.
- Check and clean the exhaust vent every 6 months. A clogged vent not only reduces heat but also causes the heating element to burn out faster.
- Avoid overloading the drum. Heavy loads trap moisture and make the dryer work harder.
- Inspect the vent hose for kinks or crush points. Keep it short and straight for better airflow.
- Schedule annual professional maintenance. A technician can check the internal ducts, sensors, and fuses for early warning signs.
Following these habits will extend the life of your dryer and help prevent expensive repairs.
How much does it cost to fix a dryer that’s not heating?
At Ivan Appliance Repair, most dryer heating repairs in Chicago are completed the same day and cost far less than replacing the appliance.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Heating element replacement: $150–$250
- Thermal fuse or thermostat: $120–$200
- Vent cleaning and airflow inspection: $100–$150
We always provide upfront pricing and stand behind every job with a limited warranty on parts and labor.
Is it worth repairing a dryer that’s not heating?
Yes — if the unit is under 10 years old and otherwise in good shape, a heating repair is almost always worth it. The cost of a new dryer can easily exceed $800, while a professional repair typically restores full function for a fraction of that.
Our technicians, like Slava, make sure to inspect related parts such as fuses, thermostats, and vents to ensure you won’t face the same issue again soon.
Dryer repair near you in Chicago
When your dryer stops heating, takes too long to dry, or smells hot, trust the experts at Ivan Appliance Repair. We offer same-day dryer repair in Chicago and nearby suburbs, handling all major brands — Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, GE, Maytag, and Frigidaire.
Our goal is simple: provide honest, fast, and professional service you can rely on.
Call Ivan Appliance Repair today for dryer repair near you in Chicago — and enjoy warm, dry clothes again in no time.
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