Is your dryer tumbling but the clothes are coming out just as wet and cold as when they went in? A dryer that runs but doesn’t heat is one of the most common dryer faults we see across Brisbane. There are a few things you can check yourself before booking a repair — and if it turns out you need a technician, Always Prompt Repairs can have one at your door fast. Book your dryer repair online or call (07) 3062 2377.
DIY Checks Before You Call a Technician
Step 1: Clean the Lint Filter
This is the single most common cause of poor drying performance. A clogged lint filter restricts airflow through the dryer, which means moisture can’t escape and the dryer can’t do its job. Pull the lint filter out and clean it thoroughly — front and back. If you can hold it up to the light and can’t see through it, it needs a deeper clean. Wash it with warm soapy water and let it dry completely before reinserting it.
Step 2: Check the Exhaust Vent
If your dryer is vented to the outside, go and check the external vent flap. Lint buildup, bird nests, and debris can block the vent completely. Disconnect the vent hose from the back of the dryer and check for blockages along its length. A blocked exhaust vent is a fire hazard as well as a performance issue — it’s worth checking regularly.
Step 3: Check the Circuit Breaker
Electric dryers typically run on a dedicated circuit. If the breaker has partially tripped, the dryer motor may still run (tumble) but the heating element won’t engage. Check your switchboard and reset the breaker. If it trips again immediately, there’s likely an electrical fault that needs professional attention.
Common Professional Dryer Faults
Heating Element Burned Out
The heating element is a coil of resistance wire that generates the heat inside your dryer. Over time, these coils can break or burn through — often you can see a visible break in the wire. When the element fails, the dryer will tumble normally but produce no heat at all. Element replacement is a straightforward repair for a qualified technician.
Thermal Fuse Blown
Every dryer has a thermal fuse — a one-time safety device that blows if the dryer overheats. Once blown, the dryer won’t heat (and in some models, won’t run at all). The fuse itself is inexpensive to replace, but a good technician will also investigate why it blew — usually a blocked vent, failed thermostat, or restricted airflow.
Cycling Thermostat Fault
The cycling thermostat regulates the temperature inside the drum by turning the heating element on and off. When it fails, the element may not turn on at all, or it may not cycle properly — leading to no heat or overheating. A faulty cycling thermostat is diagnosed with a multimeter and is a common, affordable repair.
Timer or Control Board Fault
In older dryers, the mechanical timer controls when the heating element engages. In newer models, an electronic control board handles this function. If either component fails, the dryer may tumble without activating the heater. These faults require professional diagnosis to confirm.
When to Call a Professional
If your lint filter is clean, the vent is clear, and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped, you’re likely dealing with a component failure that needs a qualified technician. We repair all major dryer brands including Bosch, Miele, Fisher & Paykel, Electrolux, Simpson, LG, Samsung, and more.
For more information about our dryer repair services, visit our dryer repair page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dryer spinning but not getting hot?
The motor and the heating element are on separate circuits. If the element has burned out, the thermal fuse has blown, or the thermostat has failed, the drum will still spin but no heat will be produced. Check the lint filter and exhaust vent first, then call a technician if those are clear.
Can a blocked lint filter stop my dryer from heating?
Not directly — a blocked lint filter won’t stop the element from heating. But it can cause the dryer to overheat and blow the thermal fuse, which will stop the heating. Regular lint filter cleaning prevents this chain reaction.
How long does a dryer repair take?
Most dryer repairs are completed in a single visit within 30 to 60 minutes, provided the parts are available. If a specific component needs to be ordered, we’ll arrange a return visit — usually within a few business days.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a dryer?
In most cases, repairing is significantly cheaper. A new dryer can cost $800 to $2,000 or more, while most repairs are a fraction of that. Your technician will give you an honest recommendation based on the age of your dryer and the nature of the fault.
How Much Does It Cost?
Our standard call-out fee is $219, which includes the first 30 minutes of on-site labour and a full diagnostic assessment. If additional time is needed, it’s $45 per 15 minutes thereafter. Parts are quoted separately at the time of repair. We offer a $20 discount for seniors, pensioners, and students. All prices are estimates only — your technician will confirm the final cost before proceeding with any work.
Do You Carry Parts on Your Vans?
Our vans carry a range of common parts and components. For less common or brand-specific parts, we can usually source and fit them within a few business days. Your technician will let you know at the time of diagnosis whether the part is on hand or needs to be ordered.
Book Your Repair Today
Serving Brisbane, Ipswich, Northern Gold Coast, and surrounding areas. Book online or call (07) 3062 2377 — we’ll get it sorted.