LG Dryer Not Heating? Step by Step Fixes and Tests That Work
Introduction: Why your LG dryer is not heating
If your LG dryer not heating, you are not alone. It is one of the most common complaints, and the cause usually falls into a few predictable categories. In this short guide I will walk you through simple checks first, then move to more technical tests you can do with a multimeter. You will learn how to rule out airflow problems like a clogged lint trap or crushed vent, spot a blown thermal fuse, and test the heating element or gas ignition system depending on your model. I will give exact steps for both electric and gas LG dryers, tell you when to shut off power or gas for safety, and show which parts are cheap and easy to replace. Follow the steps in order, and you will often fix the problem in under an hour.
Safety first, quick checks to do before you start
Before you probe why your LG dryer not heating, cut power and gas. Unplug the dryer or flip its circuit breaker. If you have a gas model, turn the gas shutoff valve off and open a window. Wear gloves and safety glasses, and keep a noncontact voltage tester or multimeter on hand to verify zero voltage. Check the lint trap and external vent for heavy buildup that can hide problems or cause a fire. Have a screwdriver, pliers and a flashlight.
How an LG dryer heats, the basic components to know
An LG dryer not heating usually comes down to a few specific parts. For electric models the core pieces are the heating element, thermal fuse, cycling thermostat, and the control board or timer. If the element burns out you get no heat, even though the drum spins. If the thermal fuse is blown, it cuts power to the element, so check it with a multimeter for continuity. Also verify you have full voltage at the terminal block, many dryers will run on 120 volts but need 240 volts to heat.
For gas models the key parts are the igniter, gas valve coils, flame sensor, and the thermal fuse. A faulty igniter will glow but not ignite gas, or will not glow at all. Bad gas coils prevent the valve from opening, leaving the burner cold. In both types a failed control board or safety thermostat can interrupt power to the heater. Test each component methodically, start with fuses and power, then move to element or igniter checks.
Quick fixes you can try in 10 minutes
Start with the basics, they fix more problems than you think. First, confirm the dryer has full power. Check the outlet and the circuit breaker, unplug the dryer for 30 seconds then plug it back in. For gas models, make sure the gas valve is open. A tripped breaker or closed gas supply can explain why an LG dryer not heating.
Next, check the settings. Some cycles run without heat, for example Air Dry or Eco modes. Select a Normal or Cotton cycle and set the temperature to High, then start a short 10 minute run. If you feel warm air inside the drum after a few minutes, you found the problem.
Clean the lint screen, and then clean behind it. Pull the lint trap, vacuum the slot, and remove any buildup. A clogged lint screen reduces airflow, causing little or no heat.
Clear the vent. Go outside, find the dryer vent hood, and run the dryer while someone checks airflow at the hood. You should feel a strong blast of warm air. If airflow is weak, remove the vent hose and run the dryer briefly to confirm stronger airflow from the back of the machine. A blocked vent is a common cause of no heat and a fire risk.
If those quick fixes do not restore heat, you have ruled out basic issues and can move to component tests like the thermal fuse or heating element.
Diagnose common causes step by step
Start with the simplest checks, then move deeper. This logical order saves time when your LG dryer not heating.
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Confirm power and vents. For electric dryers, check the breaker and the 240 volt outlet. For gas models, verify the gas supply valve is open. Run the dryer and feel the exterior vent, it should blow strong air. Weak or no airflow points to vent blockage, which can cause overheating and blown fuses.
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Inspect the thermal fuse. Unplug the dryer, open the back or blower housing, locate the fuse and test continuity with a multimeter. No continuity means replace the thermal fuse, do not bypass it.
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Test the heating element and coils. For electric units, remove the element assembly and check for continuity or visible breaks. Open circuit means the element is bad. For gas units, watch the igniter glow at start, if it does not glow the igniter or gas valve coils could be faulty.
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Check thermostats and high limit switches. These regulate temperature. Test each sensor for continuity and replace any that show open circuits.
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Inspect gas valve and igniter on gas dryers. If the igniter glows but no flame appears, the gas valve coils are often at fault.
Follow safety rules, document wire locations, and replace only with manufacturer approved parts. These step by step tests fix most cases of LG dryer not heating.
How to test electrical parts with a multimeter
If your lg dryer not heating, these multimeter checks isolate the usual suspects. First, always unplug the dryer before testing resistance or continuity. For any voltage check plug it back in only after panels are secure and you are comfortable working live.
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Thermal fuse, continuity mode: place probes on the fuse terminals, expect continuity, near 0 to 2 ohms on a good fuse. Open or infinite reading means replace.
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Heating element, ohms mode: probe the two element terminals, expect roughly 10 to 50 ohms depending on model. Infinite means broken coil, very low near 0 suggests a short.
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Thermostats and high limit switches, continuity mode: at room temperature most are normally closed, so expect near 0 ohms. If open, replace the thermostat.
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Terminal block, voltage mode only: carefully measure between the two hot terminals, expect about 240 volts on an electric dryer; if missing, check house supply and cord.
When to replace parts or call a technician
Small parts you can replace yourself: thermal fuse, thermostats, thermistor, drum belt, and heating element. These are straightforward if you can unplug the dryer and use a multimeter. Typical parts costs: thermal fuse $10 to $25, thermostat or thermistor $10 to $50, heating element $30 to $80, belt $15 to $40. Follow an online teardown video for your LG model, and replace only after testing continuity.
Call a technician when gas components or complex electronics are involved. If the problem is an igniter, gas valve coils, or a smell of gas, shut off the gas and call a pro. Gas igniter or valve coil kits run $40 to $150, but labor can make total repair $200 to $400. Also call a pro for control board diagnosis, hardwired electrical faults, or if you are uncomfortable working with gas or live wiring.
Preventive maintenance to keep your LG dryer heating well
Regular maintenance is the simplest way to avoid lg dryer not heating issues. Empty the lint trap after every load, then wash the lint screen with warm soapy water once a month to remove fabric softener buildup. Vacuum the dryer vent and outside hood every six months, or every three months if you run the dryer daily or have pets, using a shop vacuum through the duct opening. Replace plastic vent hose with rigid metal, keep vent runs under 25 feet and minimize elbows, and confirm the exterior flap opens freely. Finally, avoid overloading, dry similar fabrics together, and use the moisture sensor cycle to prevent overheating and strain.
Conclusion and action plan
Start at the top: confirm power and outlet, clear the vent, then test components from easiest to hardest. If your lg dryer not heating, follow this checklist.
- Unplug unit, check breaker and outlet.
- Inspect and clean vent and lint trap.
- Test thermal fuse and heating element with a multimeter.
- Replace faulty parts or call a certified technician.
Work slowly, stay safe, document each step.
