Why Is My Tumble Dryer Not Heating? Troubleshooting Guide

If your tumble dryer is spinning but not heating, it can be concerning. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take before considering a costly repair.

Safety First!

Always disconnect your tumble dryer from the power source before inspecting or attempting any repairs.

1. Resetting the Thermal Overload Cut Out

A common reason for a tumble dryer not heating is that the thermal overload cut-out or heater fuse has tripped. This essential safety feature is designed to prevent overheating.

Finding the Reset Button:

Older models typically have a red reset button located on the back panel.
For newer models, the button may be situated inside the casing behind the rear panel, which will require unscrewing to access.

Once you locate the reset button, press it. A click indicates that the trip has been reset, and your dryer should begin to heat up again.

2. Other Common Causes for Heating Issues

If resetting the thermal cut-out does not solve the problem, consider the following potential causes:

Faulty Heating Element: Over time, the heating element may burn out and require replacement.
Clogged Exhaust Vent: Accumulation of lint and debris can block airflow, limiting heat circulation.
Defective Thermostat: A malfunctioning thermostat may prevent proper temperature regulation.
Sensor Malfunction: In condenser and heat pump dryers, faulty moisture or temperature sensors can result in inefficient drying cycles.

Preventive Measures for Tumble Dryer Maintenance

Proper maintenance can extend your dryer’s lifespan and help prevent heating issues in the future:

Avoid Mid-Cycle Door Opening: Interrupting airflow can lead to damage.
Clean the Lint Filter: Ensure the filter is cleaned after every load to promote smooth airflow.
Rinse the Condenser Box: Monthly rinsing under water can prevent buildup.
Empty the Water Tank: In condenser dryers, empty the tank after each use.
Ensure Adequate Ventilation: Maintain a space of 15–20mm around the dryer for proper airflow.
Correct Installation: Proper installation prevents airflow blockages that could void your warranty.
Monitor Room Temperature: Running the dryer in rooms below 5°C can hinder its heating capabilities.
Avoid Overloading: An overly full drum can restrict airflow and lead to overheating or motor burnout.

For additional maintenance tips, refer to guides on how to clean a tumble dryer filter, what to do if a tumble dryer is not spinning and maintain a condenser dryer.

Common Error Codes For Tumble Dryers That Won’t Heat Up

When your tumble dryer has troubles getting hot, it often signals through an error that usually occurs on the LED display. Sometimes, you can hear a beep code on the appliance’s front panel to help you diagnose it.

“For homeowners, the error/fault codes are confusing numbers or letters depending on the appliance brand. Often, those codes seem like a cipher, making users guess what the symbols mean” commented Harry H.

“To deal with the situation once and for all, look at your tumble dryer display and compare the symbols with the information in the table below. Or, call an experienced appliance engineer to help you out.”

Brand Likely Error Codes Why is your Tumble Dryer Not Getting Hot? Remedy / Precaution tips

Brand	Likely Error Codes	Why is your tumble dryer not getting hot?	Remedy / Precaution tips
Beko	1	Open door detected while the machine is running	DIY: Refrain from checking how your clothes are drying up before the appliance finishes its cycle. Opening the dryer’s door in the first 10 minutes results in heat loss.
	9–11	Temperature sensor detects a short/open circuit or it doesn’t work properly at various temperatures	Contact a tumble dryer engineer to check the NTC temperature sensor for an open or short circuit and its resistance to various temperatures.
	13	Blocked filter detected	DIY: Clean the lint filter every time after each cycle. Take care of the heat exchanger/condenser at least once a month or per 30 drying cycles.
	14	Overheating issue causing the safety to trip (you should hear a click)	DIY: Keep the tumble dryer filter and the door channel clean. Reset the mechanism yourself.
Indesit / Hotpoint / Whirlpool	F03	Temperature sensing failure	A tumble dryer engineer should check your tumble dryer sensors.
	F05	Blocked waste or pump problem	DIY: Check for visible obstructions in the pump filter, wastewater hose, or plumbing.
	F07	Electronic circuit board failure	DIY: Reset the machine and if that doesn’t work, turn off the appliance and call a tumble dryer engineer.
	F08	Heater fault	DIY: Reset the dyer and check again. If it doesn’t help, then turn off the appliance and call a tumble dryer engineer to check the wiring to and continuity of the heating element.
	F13	Dryer temperature sensor (thermistor) fault	DIY: Reset the machine. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, turn off the appliance and call a tumble dryer engineer. It usually happens due to a defective thermistor, which should be replaced.
White Knight	–	Heating element fault	DIY: Do a continuity test with a multimeter or ask a professional for help.
	–	Rear or forward thermostat failure, thermostat system cut out	DIY: Reset the machine. If it doesn’t help, use a multimeter and test the thermostat for continuity (reading of either zero or infinity are OK). Different results call for thermostat replacement.
	–	Program timer fault	DIY: Reset the timer. Damaged timers need to be replaced.
	–	Possible relay on PCB or faulty circuit board	Rely on a tumble dryer engineer – PCB (circuit board) may be broken and need replacing.
Candy / Hoover	E5	Temperature sensor has detected an open or shorted circuit (5 flashes may appear, depending on the model)	Call a tumble dryer engineer to inspect for a wiring issue and the sensor resistance at various temperatures.
	E7	Poor airflow detected	DIY: Examine pipes and filters for obstructions; For the condenser tumble dryer models, clean the condenser unit.
	E8	Failing thermal fuse (drum turn but the heating element does not)	Confirm with a multimeter test if you need to replace the thermal fuse.
Zanussi	E60	Tumble dryer does not heat up	DIY: Consider the location of your appliance and its maintenance.
Creda	3	Temperature sensor has detected an open or shorted circuit	Contact a tumble dryer engineer to inspect the wiring of the temperature sensor and the thermistor.
	7	Heater relay stuck	A tumble dryer engineer should inspect the electronic control board and the wiring.
	8	The heater relay can’t be activated	Get in touch with a tumble dryer engineer to check for faulty wiring or electronic control board.
	13	Faulty tumble dryer fan	Call a tumble dryer engineer to check the dryer temperature sensor, wiring, or the dryer’s fan motor.
	14	Temperature sensor detects a short or open circuit or it doesn’t work properly at various temperatures	A tumble dryer engineer has to inspect the wiring and the dryer’s heater element.
Bosch	E01 & E02	Blocked fluff/lint filter	DIY: Brush the fluff/lint filter after each drying cycle.
	E03	Blocked condensation drainage hose	DIY: Remove the drain hose carefully; then clean it, and see if the siphon spigot needs a wash too.
	E06	Faulty heating circuit	DIY: Reset the machine. If it’s still faulty, then turn off the appliance and call a tumble dryer engineer.
	E08, E09, E24, E25, E28, E90	Electronic faults	Check with a tumble dryer engineer: Most often, the control board in your tumble dryer need to be reprogrammed/replaced.

In other cases, these faults are hard to detect when your tumble dryer doesn’t have an LCD display. The only way to find out the root of the issue is to have a City & Guilds-certified engineer examine your appliance.

Quick Fixes for a Non-Heating Tumble Dryer

Before scheduling a repair, consider these troubleshooting steps:

Reset the thermal cut-out button.
Clean lint filters and airways.
Check the condenser dryer’s water tank for fullness.
Ensure the room temperature is between 5°C and 35°C.
Verify the power supply and socket.

Appliance Insurance for Added Peace of Mind

Consider appliance insurance to protect your essential home appliances from unexpected failures. Coverage typically includes major appliances, ensuring you receive timely assistance when needed.

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Need Help?

If you’re confident about performing repairs on your own, avoid DIY methods, as electrical appliances can pose risks such as burns or electrocution. Our technical support team is available to provide guidance through troubleshooting steps or dispatch an authorized engineer to your home. For assistance, call us on 0345 3192 247 or visit our Appliance Cover page for immediate protection.

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Posted by: Martin Astley 24 February 2015