What are the reasons that a dryer would stop heating? There are many causes for why a dryer can stop heating. Some reasons could be attributed to consumer errors, some could be attributed to service related issues, and some deal with improper installation of the dryer.
Consumer Related Errors
The consumer related issues can be attributed to owner errors. The home owner could have the dryer on a wrong setting such as fluff, refresh, or wrinkle care. All of those settings would provide little or no heat. That should be the first option that is looked at by the customer.
Service Related Errors
The service related issues vary and most home owners are not able to deal with them. A circuit breaker could be blown which is something most home owners could take a look at, if the dryer keeps causing this a service call is needed. The heating element could also fail, in this case most homeowners would require a service call. If it is a gas dryer the gas valve could be broken or shut off. In dealing with gas dryers I would always recommend a professional because of safety concerns.
Installation Related Errors
As far as installation related issues, there are many things to consider, most of which can be handled by the average consumer. I would first check the inside venting filter located at the front inside of the dryer where the door closes. There is screen located there in some dryers and in others it is located on the exterior top right of the dryer. It pulls all the way out of the dryer and can easily be cleaned and maintained.
The next step in dealing with a dryer that is not heating would be to check the venting from the dryer to the point where it exits the house. It is usually flexible and relatively easy to clean. If not, there is a company that will clean your venting called the Vent Wizard.
The last thing to check in regards to any venting issues would be the venting on the exterior of the house. You have to determine if anything is blocking the exterior wall cap that is not blocked in any way so it is free to open up when in use. It can be a tree or bush that has grown, and in some cases a severe snow storm or blowing snow that does not permit the wall cap from opening properly. The final option one can try is to remove the vent screen and use the long crevice tool on your vacuum to clean the area below the vent screen.
Simple maintenance of the venting will go a long way to keep your dryer working effectively and adding years to the life of your dryer. If you attempt all the basic trouble shooting tips and the dryer is still not heating contact a professional service company or depending on the age of the dryer it may be time to purchase a new one.