Speed Queen Dryer Not Heating? Causes & How to Fix It

Nothing’s more annoying than tossing wet clothes in your Speed Queen dryer, only to find them still damp an hour later. If your dryer runs but won’t heat, don’t panic – you’re not alone, and it’s probably not as bad as you think.

Most heating problems have simple causes that you can check yourself before calling for help. We’ll walk you through the most common culprits step-by-step, so you can get back to actually drying your clothes. You’ll also know when it’s time to call in a pro and how to keep this from happening again.

Let’s get your dryer heating up again!

Step 1: Double-Check the Basics

Before assuming something is broken, rule out the simplest issues:

• Cycle settings: Make sure you didn’t accidentally choose an air-fluff or no-heat option.
• Load size: Overloading can restrict airflow and prevent proper drying.
• Power supply: Electric dryers require a 240V outlet. If only one breaker has tripped, the drum may turn but no heat will generate.

Taking a moment to confirm these saves time before diving deeper.

Step 2: Inspect Airflow

Airflow issues are the number one cause of poor heating. When lint blocks ventilation, heat can’t circulate properly.

• Lint filter: Remove and clean it after every cycle. Even a thin layer can reduce efficiency.
• Vent hose: Disconnect and check for kinks or lint buildup.
• Exterior vent: Go outside and make sure air flows strongly while the dryer runs. Weak airflow means a blockage inside the duct.

If you discover heavy lint, a vent brush kit or vacuum can help. Restricted airflow not only prevents heating but also raises the risk of fires.

Step 3: Test the Heating Element (Electric Models)

For electric Speed Queen dryers, the heating element generates the hot air. If it breaks, the dryer tumbles without heat.

• Unplug the dryer and remove the back panel.
• Look for visible damage, like coils that appear burnt or broken.
• Use a multimeter to test for continuity. No continuity means the element has failed.

Replacement heating elements are usually available online or through appliance parts stores, and installation is straightforward with basic tools.

Step 4: Check the Igniter (Gas Models)

Gas dryers use an igniter to light the burner. If it fails, no heat will be produced.

• Remove the front panel and locate the igniter near the gas valve.
• If the igniter never glows when the dryer is running, it may need replacement.
• Use a multimeter to confirm whether the igniter has continuity.

Igniters are delicate but inexpensive and often solve heating problems in Speed Queen gas dryers.

Step 5: Examine the Thermal Fuse

Dryers have a thermal fuse as a safety device. If the machine overheats, the fuse blows and cuts off heat.

• Find the fuse near the blower housing or heating element.
• Test with a multimeter for continuity.
• A blown fuse has no continuity and must be replaced.

If the fuse keeps blowing, you’ll need to address the root cause, usually airflow restriction.

Step 6: Inspect the Thermostat and Temperature Sensors

Dryers regulate heat through thermostats and sensors. A failed thermostat may shut off heat too soon, or prevent it entirely.

• Use a multimeter to check for continuity at room temperature.
• Replace if faulty.

These parts are inexpensive and easy to swap. They often fail gradually, showing symptoms like inconsistent drying times before total heat loss.

Step 7: Don’t Forget the Door Switch

It may sound too simple, but a broken door switch can also cut power to the heating system while still allowing the drum to turn.

• Check if the light inside the dryer turns off when the door is closed.
• Test the switch with a multimeter.

A faulty switch is quick to replace and costs far less than other components.

When Should You Call a Professional?

If you’ve worked through the steps above and your dryer still doesn’t heat, the issue may be more advanced. This is when it makes sense to get professional help.

Common situations where a technician is the smarter choice:

• Gas valve or ignition system problems
• Control board or wiring failures
• Electrical tests you’re not comfortable performing
• Multiple parts failing at once

Technicians have tools to quickly pinpoint the problem and access genuine parts from the original manufacturer. While some fixes are DIY-friendly, these complex issues are best left to trained hands.

How Can You Prevent Future Heating Problems?

Most Speed Queen dryer heating issues are preventable with good maintenance habits. A few simple routines go a long way:

• Clean the lint filter after every load.
• Inspect and clean the outside vent at least once a month.
• Deep clean the ductwork yearly to remove hidden lint.
• Vacuum inside the dryer cabinet when doing other repairs or maintenance.
• Pay attention to warning signs like longer drying times, clothes that feel unusually hot, or the outside of the dryer becoming hot to the touch.

By keeping airflow unrestricted and parts clean, your dryer can perform efficiently for years.

The Bottom Line

A Speed Queen dryer that won’t heat usually doesn’t mean disaster for your wallet. Most of the time, you’re looking at something straightforward – a clogged vent, blown fuse, or worn-out part that’s not too expensive to replace.

If you work through these steps, you’ll know exactly what’s wrong and whether you can fix it yourself or need to call someone. Keep up with regular cleaning and pay attention when your dryer starts acting up, and you’ll avoid most heating problems down the road.