A tumble dryer that spins but doesn't heat, or takes two cycles to dry a load, is usually suffering from restricted airflow or a failed heating part. The first group is something you can fix with a bit of cleaning. The second needs an engineer.
Fire and rescue services advise cleaning the filter after every use, never leaving a dryer running when you're out or asleep and keeping vents clear. If your dryer smells of burning or gets unusually hot, stop using it and unplug it.
Try these first
- Clean the lint filter. Even a thin film of lint cuts airflow. Wash it in warm soapy water occasionally and dry it fully.
- Clean the condenser or second filter (condenser dryers). Rinse the condenser unit as your manual shows and refit it firmly.
- Check the vent hose (vented dryers) for kinks, blockages and a blocked outlet.
- Check the load. Don't overfill the drum, and spin the washing well first.
- Check the room. Dryers work badly in very cold or poorly ventilated rooms.
- Check the programme. Make sure it hasn't been set to "air only" or a very low heat.
- Check the fuse and circuit. A tripped breaker can stop the heating while the drum still turns.
If it still isn't heating
The most likely faults are:
- A failed heating element (the drum turns, but the air stays cold)
- A blown thermal fuse or tripped thermal cut-out, often after overheating from blocked vents
- A faulty thermostat or temperature sensor, which stops the dryer heating properly or switches it off too early
- A failed control or timer
- A failed heat pump or compressor in heat pump dryers
These involve mains-voltage parts. If your dryer has been cutting out from overheating, find out why before you replace parts, because the thermal fuse is there to protect it.
Other tumble dryer faults
- The drum won't turn: usually a snapped belt or a worn roller or motor.
- A squealing or rumbling noise: worn drum rollers, glides or bearings.
- Water leaks or a full water tank: empty the tank on condenser models, and check the water hose and pump.
Get a tumble dryer repair
Our engineers repair vented, condenser and heat pump tumble dryers of all makes across Caerphilly and the surrounding valleys. Repairs start from £70 + VAT, and are guaranteed for 90 days. See our tumble dryer repair page, and our tips for safe, efficient drying.
Call us on 029 2088 5355 for a quote, or book online. Same-day or next-day where possible, repairs from £70 + VAT, and a 90-day guarantee on every repair.
Book a repair onlineFrequently asked questions
Why is my tumble dryer not heating up?
Common causes are a blocked filter or vent that has caused the dryer to cut out on its thermal protection, a failed heating element, a faulty thermostat or thermal fuse, or a timer or control fault. Clean the filters and vents first.
Why does my tumble dryer take so long to dry clothes?
Usually restricted airflow from a clogged filter, condenser or vent, an overloaded drum, or clothes that haven't been spun properly. If those are all fine, the element, thermostat or sensor may be failing.
How often should I clean the condenser on my dryer?
Check your manual, but as a guide rinse the condenser unit every month or so. A clogged condenser is a common cause of long drying times in condenser dryers.
Is it safe to keep using a dryer that gets very hot or smells of burning?
No. Stop using the dryer, unplug it and have it checked. Fire services advise never leaving a dryer running when you're out or asleep.
