Whirlpool Dryer Repair – Dryer Heats at First, Then Stops? Here’s What to Know

The Common Sign: Heats Once, Then Stops Heating

If your Whirlpool gas dryer ignites and heats normally at first but stops heating after 10–15 minutes, it often means one of the heating components is starting to fail.
You might still see the igniter glow, but there’s no flame after the first cycle. The dryer continues to spin but no longer produces heat.

This issue is common and usually linked to a few specific parts inside your dryer.

1. Gas Valve Coils (Most Common Issue)

Your Whirlpool gas dryer has a pair of gas valve coils that control the gas flow to the burner.
When these coils get weak, they often work when cold but stop opening the valve once they heat up.

Here’s what happens:

• The dryer starts and heats properly on the first cycle
• After a few minutes, the flame goes out
• The igniter glows again, but the gas doesn’t ignite

2. Weak or Faulty Igniter

The igniter is what lights the gas flame. Even if it glows, it might not get hot enough to ignite the gas if it’s weak or cracked.
That’s why the dryer might look like it’s working, you see the glow, but it never actually lights again.

A technician can test the igniter to confirm if it’s working.

3. Faulty Flame Sensor

The flame sensor detects whether the flame is burning. If it’s dirty or not functioning correctly, it can prevent the gas valve from opening again.
Sometimes, cleaning it helps; other times, replacement is needed.

This part is small but important – it keeps your dryer operating safely and efficiently.

4. Thermostat or Thermal Fuse Problems

If the dryer overheats, the high-limit thermostat or thermal fuse can cut power to the heating system.
When that happens, your dryer continues to tumble but won’t heat until the component cools down or is replaced.

These safety parts are critical because they protect your dryer from excessive heat and potential fire risks.
If your Whirlpool dryer isn’t producing heat at all, this could be the reason.

5. Restricted Airflow or Clogged Vent

Poor airflow is one of the most common reasons for heating problems in any dryer.
Lint buildup in the vent hose or outside exhaust prevents hot air from escaping.
As a result, the dryer overheats and automatically shuts off the flame.

Here’s what you can do:

• Clean the lint screen before every load
• Check and clean your dryer vent every few months
• Make sure the outside vent flap opens freely

Good airflow not only keeps your dryer heating properly but also helps it run more efficiently.

6. Control Board or Timer Malfunction

On older Whirlpool dryers, the timer or control board can fail and stop sending power to the gas valve or heating element.
This is less common but can happen on dryers that are 8–10 years old.

Testing the control system requires the right tools and experience, so this is best handled by a trained appliance technician.

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How to Troubleshoot Before Calling for Service

If you’re comfortable doing simple checks, here’s what you can safely try first:

1. Unplug the dryer before doing anything.
2. Clean the lint filter and vent hose. This alone solves many heating problems.
3. Observe the burner assembly. If the igniter glows but no flame appears after the first cycle, it often points to the gas coils.
4. Make sure the settings are correct. Check that it’s not on “Air Fluff” or “No Heat.”
5. Ensure proper airflow. Push the dryer slightly forward from the wall so the hose isn’t pinched.

If you’ve done these and it still won’t heat, professional Whirlpool dryer repair is the next step.

Why Professional Dryer Repair Is Important

Dryers involve both gas and electrical systems, so guessing which part to replace can be risky.
At ARNI Services, our licensed technicians are trained to:

• Test igniters, sensors, and thermostats with professional tools
• Inspect gas flow and flame ignition
• Check the airflow system
• Replace faulty parts with quality, manufacturer-approved components

We diagnose the real cause of the problem, not just the symptom, so you get a lasting fix, not a temporary one.

When to Call for Whirlpool Dryer Repair

Contact ARNI Services if you notice any of these signs:

• Dryer heats once, then no longer produces heat
• Igniter glows but there’s no flame
• Clothes take too long to dry
• Dryer shuts off early or overheats
• You smell gas or burning
• Dryer runs but never heats

Ignoring these symptoms can lead to larger repairs later, so it’s best to have your dryer checked early.

Simple Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Dryer in Good Shape

After repair, these steps can help prevent future problems:

• Clean the lint filter before every cycle
• Avoid overloading the dryer
• Clean your vent at least once or twice a year
• Keep the dryer at least a few inches from the wall
• Schedule a maintenance check every 12–18 months

Regular maintenance helps your dryer run efficiently and saves energy.

Get Professional Whirlpool Dryer Repair Today