How to Fix a Speed Queen Dryer That’s Not Heating

If you’ve noticed your Speed Queen dryer not heating properly, this guide is for you. While heating issues can be frustrating, there are actually quite a few things a DIYer can do to attempt to solve the problem themselves.

Whether your dryer has a blown fuse or is experiencing issues with its moisture sensors, this guide is for you. We help you figure out the source of the problem, and walk you through simple steps on how to fix it. Let’s dive in. 

This guide applies to the majority of popular Speed Queen dryer models, including the following:

AE3213

AE3413

AE4113

AE4213

AE4413

AE5113

AEM407L

AEM407L2

AEM407W

AEM407W2

AEM427W

AEM427W2

AEM477W

AEM477W2

AEM497L

LDE30RGS173TW01

LDG30RGS113TW01

LES10A*

LES34A*

LGS10A*

LGS34A*

Ensure Proper Airflow

You might think restricted airflow would cause too much heat rather than not enough. However, that’s not always the case. If the airflow is restricted in your Speed Queen dryer, hot air and moisture won’t be able to escape. This can lead to the interior of the dryer becoming too hot, which can then cause the thermal fuse to blow. This means that on subsequent uses, your dryer won’t produce any heat at all. 

Common causes of restricted airflow include an overfilled lint filter and a clogged vent pipe. Here’s how to ensure proper airflow:

• Remove the lint filter and clean it thoroughly, including the filter housing (where the filter goes). The filter should be cleaned after every load to ensure optimal drying efficiency. 
• Disconnect the vent hose and check for lint buildup. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove any blockages. If the vent pipe is too long, you can purchase specially designed duct cleaning brushes from your local hardware store. 
• Thoroughly clean the vent hose housing as this is a common site of lint build-up. 
• Make sure your vent hose isn’t too long and cut it shorter if necessary. Also, ensure it has minimal loops and bends as these are often spots where lint accumulates. 

Replace the Thermal Fuse

Once you’ve ensured proper airflow, make sure you check the thermal fuse. If the fuse blows, it won’t start functioning again even if you solve the issue. Blown fuses need to be replaced. Here’s what to do:

• Unplug your dryer to ensure your safety while working. 
• Consult your Speed Queen manual to locate the thermal fuse. In most models, you’ll find it near the heating element. You may need to remove the top and back panels to gain access. 
• You may not be able to tell just from looking whether the thermal fuse has blown, so you’ll need to test it with a multimeter. 
• Touch a probe to each of the thermal fuse’s terminals, then check the reading. A functioning thermal fuse should read 0 ohms. If it has a higher reading, it’s blown and will need to be replaced. 
• Source a compatible Speed Queen dryer replacement fuse online. Install the new fuse, ensuring it’s properly wired into place. 
• Reconnect your dryer to the power, and then run a test cycle to see if the dryer is now producing heat. 
• To reduce the risk of blowing the fuse again, clean the filter and vent pipe regularly. 

Check the Heating Element

If you’ve ruled out airflow and thermal fuse issues and your Speed Queen dryer still isn’t heating, there may be something wrong with the heating element. With repeated use, a heating element can become damaged, leading it to stop producing heat. This is more common in older dryers or dryers that are used frequently. To check this:

• Unplug the dryer for your safety. 
• Locate the heating element. Check your manual for the exact location. You’ll probably need to remove the back panel. 
• Check the heating element for obvious damage. If it looks cracked or scorched, it will need to be replaced. 
• If you’re not sure if it’s functional, test the element with a multimeter. If it reads as having no continuity, this means it’s defective and needs to be replaced. 
• Source a replacement heating element, either from Speed Queen or from a reputable appliance parts retailer. Make sure it’s compatible with your dryer model. 
• If you’re not confident installing a new heating element, you can engage a technician at this point. Otherwise, remove the faulty element, making sure you note how the wiring is connected. 
• Put the new element in place and secure it.
• Put the back panel of the dryer back in place, and then restore power. 
• Run a test to see if the dryer is now producing heat. 

Check the Moisture Sensors

Some Speed Queen dryers use advanced moisture sensing technology to ensure your laundry is only dried for the necessary amount of time. The sensors are located inside the drum and are a great way to ensure you don’t waste electricity or put unnecessary wear on your clothes. However, if the moisture sensor becomes dirty or coated in residue, then it won’t work properly. This can lead to your dryer stopping its heat cycle prematurely. If this is the problem, you may notice your dryer is heating for a short time but stops before your clothes are dry. Here’s what to do:

• Locate the moisture sensor inside your dryer’s drum. It will be a slender metal strip. 
• Use a rag or cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol to thoroughly clean the sensor. 
• Once the sensor is clean, run a test cycle to ensure that the heating process is back to normal. 
• Avoid using dryer sheets and fabric softener as these increase the chance of residue buildup.