What Could Be Wrong If My Kenmore Dryer Will Not Heat?
A Kenmore dryer that doesn’t heat usually has a faulty heating element. Also, its thermostat could be malfunctioning due to a restricted vent. Both problems are easily diagnosed and repaired.
Always unplug the dryer before doing any repair work. Before doing any repair work, however, check the thermal fuse. In Kenmore dryers, the thermal fuse is located on the blower cover and is easily replaced. Unplug the dryer and disconnect the back panel. Use a multi-meter to check the resistance of the fuse. If the fuse does not show zero ohms of resistance, replace it.
Next, check the heating element. Heat is generated in the dryer chamber by a coil of heating wire enclosed in a metal chamber. Current flowing through the coil generates heat to warm the air flowing through the chamber. Check the element for continuity with a multi-meter. If there is no continuity, log on to any appliance repair website, enter the model of the dryer, and locate and purchase the heating element.
If the element works properly, move on to the thermostat. The high limit thermostat is designed to prevent the dryer from overheating when the exhaust fan is blocked or restricted. Check the exhaust path for clothing or lint build-up. Check the thermostat for continuity with a multi-meter. If there is no continuity, replace the thermostat.
In rare occasions, the timer may be the problem. The timer is located in the control console and consists of a small motor connected to a series of gears that turn electrical contacts on and off. A defect in the timer causes the dryer to stop producing heat. Unplug the dryer, test the timer for continuity and replace if necessary.
