Samsung Dryer Not Heating? Test the Element & Thermal Fuse

Nothing ruins laundry day faster than opening your dryer to find a pile of cold, wet clothes. If you're dealing with a Samsung dryer not heating, you're not alone this is one of the most common appliance issues we see.

The good news? The problem usually comes down to one of two parts: the heating element or the thermal fuse. This guide will walk you through how to troubleshoot and fix a Samsung dryer that won’t heat, so you can get your laundry routine back on track.

Why Is Your Samsung Dryer Not Heating Up?

Initial Troubleshooting Checks

Before grabbing a screwdriver, rule out the simple stuff. A Samsung dryer not heating is sometimes caused by a setting error or power supply issue, not a broken part.

Start with these basic checks if your dryer is not heating up:

• Check the Circuit Breaker:
  Samsung electric dryers run on 240 volts. If one half of the double breaker trips, the drum may turn (on 120v), but the heater won’t. Flip your breaker fully off, then on again.

• Check the Cycle Settings:
  Eco modes use less heat. Test with a standard cycle like "Normal" or "Heavy Duty."

• Clean the Lint Filter:
  A blocked filter stops airflow over the heater.

Still getting cold air? Let’s go deeper.

Checking the Samsung Dryer Heating Element (Electric Models)

If you have an electric dryer, the Samsung dryer heating element is the most likely cause of heat loss. It works like a lightbulb filament. Over time, it burns out or breaks.

Even if the coil looks fine, it could still have an internal break. Here’s how to test it:

Step-by-Step: How to Test a Samsung Dryer Heating Element

• Unplug the Dryer: Safety first.

• Access the Heater: Remove the back or front panel (model-dependent).

• Remove the Wires: Take a picture, then disconnect wires from the terminals.

• Test for Continuity:

  • Set your multimeter to the Ω (ohms) setting.

  • Touch the probes to the heating element terminals.

What the results mean:

• 10–50 Ohms: Heating element is good.

• OL (Open Loop) or infinite resistance: The coil is broken and needs replacement.

Don’t want to open the machine yourself? Call Promix Appliance Repair for fast, professional help.

Diagnosing a Blown Samsung Dryer Thermal Fuse

If the heating element checks out, the next suspect is the thermal fuse. This safety device cuts power to the heater if it overheats often due to blocked vents.

How to Test a Dryer Thermal Fuse

• Locate the Fuse: A small white plastic strip near the blower or heating element.

• Disconnect Wires: Gently pull them off.

• Test for Continuity: Touch multimeter probes to fuse terminals.

Results:

• 0–1 Ohms or a beep: Fuse is good.

• No continuity (OL): Fuse is blown and must be replaced.

Tip: We recommend replacing the fuse and cleaning your dryer vents during the same service to prevent recurrence.

Troubleshooting a Gas Dryer Not Heating

Igniter or Gas Coils

If your Samsung gas dryer is not heating, it won’t have a heating element. Instead, it uses:

• Igniter: Glows to ignite gas. If it doesn’t glow, it’s faulty.

• Gas Valve Coils: Open to release gas. If they fail, the flame won’t stay on.

Gas dryers require careful handling improper repair can lead to leaks or fire. We strongly recommend professional service for gas units.

Samsung Moisture Sensor Dryer Not Heating (False Alarm)

Sometimes the dryer is heating, but shuts off too soon, leaving clothes damp.

If you use dryer sheets, they can coat the moisture sensors (metal bars near the lint filter) with wax, making the machine think clothes are dry.

Solution: Wipe the metal bars with rubbing alcohol to remove residue and restore proper sensor function.

Related Topic: Heating issues in Samsung dryers are not always caused by a blown fuse, you can find other common problems and practical fixes explained in detail in Samsung dryer problems and fixes.

Dryer Not Spinning vs. Not Heating

Know the Difference

Don’t confuse the symptoms:

• Drum spins, but no heat: Heating issue (element, fuse, coil).

• Drum doesn’t spin, but there's heat: Likely a broken belt or motor issue.

If you're unsure, Promix technicians can diagnose the problem quickly and correctly.

When to Call for Samsung Dryer Repair

Troubleshooting a Samsung dryer that won’t heat can be tricky and dangerous. If you’ve tested the element and fuse but the problem persists, it’s time to call in the experts.

At Promix Appliance Repair, we offer same-day Samsung appliance repair in the Boston area.