If your Kenmore dryer isn't heating, it can be a frustrating issue, especially when you need clean, dry clothes quickly. A dryer that’s not heating could be caused by several components, with the thermal fuse and heating element being the most common culprits. Fortunately, these issues can often be fixed with a bit of troubleshooting and basic tools. In this detailed guide, we’ll explain how to check the thermal fuse and heating element in your Kenmore dryer so you can get your appliance back to working order.

Why Is My Kenmore Dryer Not Heating?

There are several potential reasons your Kenmore dryer isn’t heating properly. The most common causes include:

• Thermal Fuse Failure: The thermal fuse is designed to prevent the dryer from overheating. If the dryer gets too hot, the thermal fuse blows to stop the heating process.
• Faulty Heating Element: The heating element is what generates the heat for the dryer. Over time, it can break down or short out, preventing the dryer from producing heat.
• Clogged Ventilation System: A clogged vent can cause overheating, which may blow the thermal fuse or damage the heating element.
• Malfunctioning Thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature in the dryer. If it’s malfunctioning, it may not allow the dryer to heat properly.
• Blown Circuit Breaker: If the dryer isn’t getting sufficient power, it may not heat. A tripped circuit breaker may cause this.

Tools & Materials Needed:

• Multimeter
• Flat-head screwdriver or Phillips screwdriver
• Socket wrench
• Replacement parts (thermal fuse or heating element)
• Gloves (optional)

Step-by-Step Guide to Check the Thermal Fuse & Heating Element

Step 1: Unplug the Dryer and Turn Off the Gas

Before you start any repair, ensure the dryer is completely powered off:

• Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet to prevent any electrical hazards.
• If you have a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply at the gas valve.

Step 2: Access the Dryer’s Thermal Fuse & Heating Element

The thermal fuse and heating element are located inside the dryer. To access them, you need to remove the back panel or the front panel, depending on your model.

• Remove the back panel: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws securing the back panel of the dryer.
• Locate the Thermal Fuse: The thermal fuse is usually located on the ducting or vent line near the blower wheel or at the exhaust duct.
• Locate the Heating Element: The heating element is often located near the back of the dryer (if you removed the back panel). It’s a metal coil, often encased in a metal housing.

Step 3: Test the Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety feature that blows when the dryer overheats. When blown, the dryer will not heat, even if the rest of the appliance seems to be functioning.

• Remove the thermal fuse: Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws holding the thermal fuse in place. Disconnect the wires attached to the fuse.
• Test for Continuity: Set your multimeter to continuity mode (or resistance mode). Place the multimeter probes on the terminals of the thermal fuse. If the multimeter beeps or shows a low resistance, the fuse is good. If the multimeter shows no continuity or an infinite resistance reading, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.

Step 4: Test the Heating Element

If the thermal fuse is working, the issue could be with the heating element. The heating element generates the heat required for drying your clothes, and if it’s broken, the dryer won’t heat.

• Remove the heating element: Use a socket wrench to remove any screws or bolts securing the heating element in place. Gently pull the heating element out, being careful not to damage any wires or connections.
• Test the heating element for continuity: Use the multimeter to test the heating element by placing the probes on the terminals of the element. If the element has continuity, it’s in good working condition. If there’s no continuity, the heating element is broken and should be replaced.

Step 5: Replace the Faulty Part

If the thermal fuse or heating element is faulty, you’ll need to replace it. Here’s how:

• Install the new thermal fuse: Take the new thermal fuse and connect the wires to the terminals. Secure the fuse back into place using the screws you removed earlier.
• Install the new heating element: Place the new heating element in position, aligning it with the mounting holes. Secure it with screws or bolts. Reconnect any wires that were removed from the old heating element.

Step 6: Reassemble the Dryer

Once the faulty parts are replaced:

• Reinstall the back panel: If you removed the back panel, reinstall it by aligning it with the screw holes and securing it with screws.
• Replace the dryer racks: Put the oven racks back in place if they were removed during the process.

Step 7: Test the Dryer

Finally, plug the dryer back into the power source and turn on the gas if applicable. Set the dryer to a normal heat cycle and allow it to run. You should observe the following:

• The dryer should start to heat up within a few minutes.
• Check for proper heating: The clothes should be warm and dry at the end of the cycle.

Important Tips to Prevent Dryer Heating Issues

• Clean the lint filter regularly: Always clean the lint filter before or after each use. A clogged filter can cause overheating, which might blow the thermal fuse or damage the heating element.
• Ensure proper ventilation: Make sure the dryer vent is not clogged with lint. Poor ventilation can cause the dryer to overheat.
• Don’t overload the dryer: Overloading can put excessive strain on the dryer’s heating elements and motor, causing damage over time.
• Check the gas supply (for gas dryers): If you have a gas dryer, ensure that the gas supply is properly connected and the gas valve is open.

Commonly Asked Questions about Kenmore Dryer Heating Issues

1. How do I know if the thermal fuse in my Kenmore dryer is blown?

A blown thermal fuse is one of the most common reasons for a Kenmore dryer not heating. Here's how you can check:

• Visual Signs: If your dryer is still running but not heating, it's likely the thermal fuse has blown.
• Testing with a Multimeter: The most reliable way to test the thermal fuse is by using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to continuity mode and check the terminals of the thermal fuse. If there’s no continuity (no beep or infinite resistance), the fuse is blown and will need to be replaced.
• Tip: If your dryer isn’t heating and you've confirmed the thermal fuse is blown, it's usually an indication of overheating caused by poor ventilation or a clogged lint filter, so check those as well.

2. Can I replace the thermal fuse in my Kenmore dryer myself?

Yes, replacing the thermal fuse in your Kenmore dryer is a manageable DIY task. You just need a few basic tools like a Phillips screwdriver, 1/4-inch nut driver, and a multimeter for testing the fuse.

• Unplug the dryer and turn off the gas (for gas dryers).
• Remove the back panel or access panel to reach the thermal fuse.
• Test the fuse with a multimeter for continuity. If it’s blown, replace it with a new one specific to your model.
• Reassemble the dryer and test the new fuse by running the dryer.

3. Why is my Kenmore dryer not heating even though the thermal fuse is fine?

If the thermal fuse is intact but the dryer still isn't heating, the issue could lie with the heating element, thermostat, or even ventilation problems. Here's what you should check:

• Heating Element: Over time, heating elements can burn out or develop a short. You can test the element with a multimeter for continuity. If there’s no continuity, you need to replace the heating element.
• Thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent the heating element from receiving power. Test the thermostat with a multimeter, and if it’s defective, replace it.
• Blocked Vent: Poor ventilation causes the dryer to overheat, which may blow the thermal fuse or prevent proper heating. Make sure the lint filter and vent hose are clean and free of debris.

Commonly Asked Questions (FAQs) - Kenmore Dryer Not Heating

4. My Kenmore dryer is running but not heating – what should I check first?

If your Kenmore dryer is still running but not heating, the first thing to check is the thermal fuse. A blown thermal fuse is a common cause of no heat. Once you’ve confirmed the fuse is blown, it’s important to address the underlying cause to avoid the issue happening again:

• Clogged Ventilation: A clogged vent or lint filter can cause overheating, which may blow the fuse. Clean out the lint trap and check the vent system for blockages.
• Heating Element: If the fuse is fine, check the heating element for any damage. If it’s broken or has no continuity, it’ll need replacing.
• Gas Supply (for gas dryers): If you have a gas dryer, ensure the gas valve is open and the gas is flowing properly. If the gas supply is off, the dryer can’t heat.

5. How long does the thermal fuse last in a Kenmore dryer?

A thermal fuse typically lasts for several years in a Kenmore dryer, but it can blow if the dryer overheats. The most common causes of a blown thermal fuse are:

• Clogged dryer vents: Poor ventilation leads to overheating, which can cause the fuse to blow.
• Overloading the dryer: Frequently overloading the dryer can also cause excessive heat buildup.

To prolong the life of your thermal fuse, ensure that the dryer vents are cleaned regularly and that the dryer isn’t overloaded during use.

6. Can a blown thermal fuse prevent my Kenmore dryer from tumbling?

Yes, a blown thermal fuse can prevent your Kenmore dryer from tumbling, but it typically prevents the dryer from heating rather than tumbling. However, if your dryer is completely non-functional (no heat or tumbling), the thermal fuse may have blown due to an overheating issue. This overheating could affect other components, including the motor or belt.

• If the thermal fuse is blown and the dryer isn't heating, you should:
  • Replace the thermal fuse and check the ventilation system for blockages.
  • Ensure the belt is intact and the motor is working. If the motor is damaged, it may also prevent the drum from tumbling.

7. How can I prevent my Kenmore dryer’s thermal fuse from blowing in the future?

To prevent your Kenmore dryer’s thermal fuse from blowing again, focus on proper maintenance and ventilation:

• Clean the lint trap after every use to prevent lint buildup, which can block airflow.
• Inspect and clean the dryer vent and ductwork at least once a year. A clogged vent can lead to overheating, causing the thermal fuse to blow.
• Avoid overloading the dryer, as it can restrict airflow and cause excessive heat buildup.
• Check for proper airflow: Make sure the dryer is in a well-ventilated area, and the vent hose is not kinked or crushed.

By regularly maintaining your dryer, you can prevent overheating issues and extend the life of the thermal fuse and other components.

8. What should I do if the new thermal fuse blows again?

If your new thermal fuse blows again, it’s important to identify the root cause of the problem before replacing it again:

• Check the ventilation: Blocked vents are the most common cause of repeated thermal fuse failures. Clean the vent system, including the lint trap and ducts, to ensure proper airflow.
• Examine the heating element: If the heating element is damaged or shorted out, it could cause the dryer to overheat. Replace the element if necessary.
• Check the thermostat: If the thermostat is malfunctioning, it could be causing the dryer to overheat. Test the thermostat with a multimeter and replace it if needed.

By addressing the underlying issue, you can prevent the new fuse from blowing.

9. How much does it cost to replace the thermal fuse in a Kenmore dryer?

The cost of replacing the thermal fuse in a Kenmore dryer varies, but here’s a general breakdown:

• Thermal Fuse Cost: The replacement part itself typically costs between $10 and $25.
• Labor Costs: If you hire a professional, labor costs can range from $100 to $150, depending on your location and technician rates.
• If you’re doing the replacement yourself, the total cost should only be for the thermal fuse and any tools you might need.

10. Can I continue using my Kenmore dryer if the thermal fuse is blown?

It’s not recommended to continue using your Kenmore dryer if the thermal fuse is blown. The thermal fuse is a safety feature designed to prevent the dryer from overheating. Continuing to use the dryer with a blown fuse could cause additional damage, including overheating of the motor or other components.

To ensure the safety and longevity of your appliance, replace the blown thermal fuse as soon as possible and address the cause of the overheating, such as clogged vents or a faulty heating element.