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How to Repair a Dryer that Gets Very Hot or Overheating

Dryer is getting hot but is still taking a long time to dry the clothes.

NOTICE: Before trying to diagnose why your dryer is too hot or overheating, make sure to disconnect it from all power sources.

Heating Element

The heating element heats the air up prior to the air entering the dryer drum. If the dryer heating element has shortened out, it could begin to run heat on a continual basis even when the dryer is at the correct temperature. This is what will cause the dryer to become too hot or overheat. If there is a fault with the heating element, use a multimeter test to determine if the continuity is correct. If the heating element has shortened out, it’s time to replace it.

If you find that you need to replace the dryer heating element: Shop Dryer Heating Elements Here

Air Flow Problem

Venting in a dryer can become clogged. If this does happen, the air flow will be restricted within the dryer which would then lead to a longer dryer cycle. In order for this not to occur, check the venting at least once a year.

Dryer Air Flow Restriction Signs

In order to determine if the venting is clogged or partially clogged, there are a few signs to look for.

Classic signs of a dryer vent restriction are:

Dryer takes too long to dry.
Dryer is hot on top.
Clothes are very hot when you take them out.
Dryer has a lot of moisture / humidity inside when you open the door.
Dryer filter has little or no lint in it.

If you think you have a restricted vent you should stop using the dryer and have the vent cleaned. Dryer vent restrictions are the number one cause of dryer fires in the US. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that in 1998, clothes dryers were associated with 15,600 fires, which resulted in 20 deaths and 370 injuries.

Fires can occur when lint builds up in the dryer or in the exhaust duct. Lint can block the flow of air, cause excessive heat build-up, and result in a fire in some dryers.

We offer a great dryer vent cleaning kit that is easy to use and can save you about $300 over the cost of a dryer vent cleaning service.

More Dryer Repair Parts

We covered what some of the reasons could be when it comes to the dryer becoming too hot or overheating. If you find that you need a replacement part, feel free to browse our website or visit the dryer parts page.

If you have a hard time finding the part you need for your dryer, just give us a call at 866-236-3848 and one of our Part Experts would be happy to help you find the exact OEM replacement part you are looking for to fix your dryer.

Locating the Model Number on your Dryer

When calling to find an exact replacement part for your dryer, you will need the Model Number ready to go. The model number on a dryer can typically be found in one of four places:

For electric dryers, the model number can be found in the upper back corner, the front side of the cabinet, or the cabinet frame inside the door.

For gas dryers, the model number can typically be found behind the front access panel.