LG Dryer Not Heating Properly? How To Fix It

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AtoZ
October 3, 2022
Dryer Repair

Is your LG dryer not heating up properly? Don’t worry – you’re not alone! In this blog post, we’ll take you through some simple steps to fix the problem. Keep in mind that these solutions may vary depending on the specific model of LG dryer you own, so be sure to consult your owner’s manual if needed. Keep reading for tips on how to get your LG dryer up and running again!

Tip 1. Check the power and gas

If you’re wondering if your dryer is heating properly, there’s an easy way to test it. Simply run the Speed Dry or Timed Dry cycle for two to three minutes. Then, open the door and hold your hand inside. If you feel heat, then the dryer is functioning properly. If not, then with a little troubleshooting, you’ll have your dryer up and running in no time.

For electric dryers

  • Check that the unit is plugged in, go to your breaker box, and flip the circuit breaker corresponding to the dryer. Leave it for 10 seconds, then flip the circuit back on.
  • Retry the test in step one.
  • If there is still no heat, call a repair technician.
  • If there is heat, make sure that the lint trap and dryer vent are clean and clear – and check Energy Saver mode is off – this cycle starts with an air dry and takes time to heat up. There will be a light next to the Energy Saver label on your control panel. Simply hold the Wrinkle Care button for 3 seconds, and an off message will display on the monitor.

For gas dryers

  • Check that the gas supply is open fully. Allowing the gas to flow should give the dryer the fuel it needs to generate heat.
  • If the gas is flowing and there is still no heat, call a repair technician.

Tip 2. Clean the lint trap and ducts

Cleaning the lint trap

The lint trap should be located just inside the dryer door. It pulls out and has a small screen to catch the lint that comes off during the drying process. Simply pop it out and remove any lint that has accumulated. Be sure to do this after every dryer cycle to keep your dryer in tip-top shape. LG dryers also have a moisture filter next to the lint trap. Occasionally, lint can escape the trap and clog the sensor meaning that the dryer won’t heat up as a safety precaution. You can clean the sensors with a damp cloth or paper towel. The sensors should be checked and cleaned at least once a month.

Cleaning the vent

Every dryer has a vent to help get rid of excess heat and moisture. But the vent can get clogged with lint over time, and cause the dryer to stop heating. It is also a huge fire hazard. Soclean your vent once a year to keep your dryer warm and home safe.

  1. First, start by unplugging your dryer from the wall and disconnecting the exhaust duct. Then, use a vacuum with a hose attachment to remove any lint or debris that has accumulated inside the vent and duct.
  2. Next, use a dryer vent brush to reach any lint or debris that may be stuck in the vents or ducts farther away from the opening.
  3. Once you’ve finished, reattach the duct and plug your dryer back in. Make sure that the duct has a short, smooth path to the vent, otherwise, lint can build up in the corners and bends.

Following these steps regularly will help keep your dryer vent clean and free of potential fire hazards.

Tip 3. Check the internal components

These steps are for the more DIY inclined If you are unsure about any step in this process, call a repair technician. Note: To access most of the following components of the dryer you will need to remove the top panel.

You will also need:

  • A screwdriver
  • A nut driver – depending on your model and how it is secured
  • A multimeter – to check the components for continuity
  • A dust mask – the interior of the dryer can be filled with lint

To access the problem components (hi-limit fuse, hi-limit thermostat, heating element), first, unplug the dryer from the power outlet. Pull the dryer away from the wall and turn it off and disconnect the gas line (if you have a gas dryer). Disconnect the exhaust duct.

Then, find the screws that hold the top panel in place. There are usually two or four screws, depending on the model of your dryer, some may be under the lip of the panel. Using a screwdriver and/or nut driver, remove the screws (or nuts) and set them aside. Carefully push the top panel back, lift it off, and set it aside.

  • Unscrew the bracket holding the control panel boards in place, on the inside of the front panel. Disconnect the control panels. You may want to take a picture of the connections so you can put them back correctly. Remove the panel with the control panel and set it aside.
  • Unscrew the bracket on the outside of the control panel. Open the door.
  • Unscrew to screw at the bottom of the door. Close the door after. Disconnect the power connection. Lift off the door panel, and set it aside.
  • Remove the lift trap and set it aside.
  • Unscrew and disconnect any remaining brackets and connections along the front of the tub. Remove the interior bracket panel and set it aside.
  • Inside the dryer, from the base, there will be two pulleys with the dryer belt. One will lift up and slacken the belt. Release the belt from the pulleys. From here, you can use the belt as a hoist to help you move the tub. Lift the tub out, and set it aside.

Note: Now that you can see the interior of the dryer, you can vacuum up any lint.

  • You will see a square-ish tube with two connections running out of it on the right side of the interior. These are your heating element (closer to the front) and hi-limit thermostat (at the back) and your hi-limit fuse (at the middle). Test continuity between the red and blue, and the red and yellow wires, respectively. There should be no continuity between the blue and yellow. 
  • Any element that does not have continuity between the right parts, will need to be replaced.
  • From here, the components can be unscrewed and replaced. Replacement parts are available from your manufacturer or Amazon.
  • Now, reverse the process to reassemble your dryer. Reconnect all connections, plug the device back in and turn the gas back on. Your dryer should be heating now.

The lowdown 

We hope these tips were helpful and that your dryer is now up and running. If you have any questions or need help with a repair, please don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer or a repair technician.

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