Quick Answer: Why Isn't Your Dryer Heating or Working?
If your dryer won't heat, takes too long to dry clothes, or won't start, the most common causes are a burned-out heating element, faulty thermal fuse, broken belt, or clogged vent. Gas and electric dryer repairs in Woodbridge VA typically cost $100-$350 and are completed the same day.
| Problem | Likely Cause | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| No heat | Heating element, thermal fuse, or gas igniter | $120-$300 |
| Won't start | Door switch, start switch, or thermal fuse | $80-$200 |
| Takes too long | Clogged vent, blower wheel, or thermostat | $100-$250 |
| Making noise | Drum rollers, belt, or idler pulley | $100-$250 |
| Won't tumble | Broken belt or worn drum rollers | $100-$200 |
*Prices are estimates and may vary based on appliance brand, model, and parts needed. Diagnostic fee waived with approved repair.
The number-one dryer problem we fix in Northern Virginia is not a broken part but a clogged vent line. Townhomes in Dale City, Lake Ridge, and Woodbridge often have dryer vents that run 20-30 feet through walls and ceilings before reaching the exterior. That length traps lint, restricts airflow, and causes the dryer to overheat, which then trips the thermal fuse or burns out the heating element. We always inspect the full vent path on every dryer call because replacing a $25 thermal fuse without clearing the vent just means the new fuse blows in a few months. About 40% of our dryer repair calls in Northern VA end up being a vent issue disguised as a heating problem.
Common Dryer Repair Problems We Fix
Dryer Not Heating
The most common dryer complaint. In electric dryers, the heating element, thermal fuse, or thermostat usually fails. In gas dryers, the igniter, gas valve coils, or flame sensor are the typical culprits. We test all components and replace only what's needed.
Dryer Takes Too Long
Clothes still damp after a full cycle? A clogged lint trap, restricted vent line, worn drum seals that leak hot air, or a failing heating element are common causes. We also check your dryer vent run - lint buildup in the vent line dramatically reduces drying performance.
Dryer Won't Tumble
If the motor runs but the drum doesn't spin, a broken drum belt is the usual cause. Other possibilities include a worn drum roller, a seized idler pulley, or a failed motor. Belt replacements are among our quickest repairs.
Unusual Noises
Squealing, thumping, or grinding typically points to worn drum support rollers, a stretched or fraying belt, or a worn-out idler pulley. These are mechanical parts that wear over time and are straightforward to replace.
Dryer Shuts Off Mid-Cycle
A dryer that runs for a few minutes then stops is usually overheating due to restricted airflow. A clogged lint screen, blocked vent line, or bad cycling thermostat causes the high-limit safety switch to trip. We clear the airflow issue and test the safety components.
Brands We Service
We repair Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Maytag, GE, Kenmore, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, Bosch, and Amana dryers. Both gas and electric models, all configurations including stackable and ventless condensing dryers.
Dryer Repair Cost in Woodbridge, VA
| Repair Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Heating element replacement | $100 - $200 |
| Thermal fuse replacement | $80 - $150 |
| Drum belt replacement | $80 - $140 |
| Drum roller replacement | $100 - $180 |
| Gas valve coil replacement | $90 - $170 |
| Igniter replacement | $100 - $180 |
| Motor replacement | $150 - $280 |
* Our $89 diagnostic fee is waived when you approve the repair. Compare these costs with other appliances in our Northern Virginia repair pricing guide. Prices as of May 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Gas dryers lose heat when the igniter weakens (it glows but can't reach the temperature to open the gas valve), gas valve coils wear out (intermittent or no heat), or the flame sensor fails. We test each component in sequence to find the exact failure point.
At minimum once a year, more often if you run 5+ loads per week. A clogged dryer vent is the #1 cause of residential dryer fires and significantly increases drying time. We offer professional dryer vent cleaning as a separate service.
If the repair costs less than half of a comparable new dryer and the unit is under 10 years old, repair is almost always the better value. We'll advise honestly if replacement makes more sense for your situation.
Our Service Area
We provide dryer repair throughout Northern Virginia including Woodbridge, Dale City, Lake Ridge, Dumfries, Manassas, Gainesville, Bristow, Lorton, Springfield, Fairfax, and all communities in the 571/703 area code.
