A dryer that tumbles but leaves your clothes damp is common and usually fixable. Because dryers involve heat, high voltage and sometimes gas, some checks are safe to do yourself while others belong to a technician. Below are the causes and when to book professional dryer repair in Ottawa.
We see damp-clothes calls all year across the Ottawa area, from Nepean to Gloucester. The most common cause is also the easiest to fix.
In this article
Common causes of a dryer that will not heat
- Clogged vent. A blocked lint vent traps heat and moisture, and is also a fire hazard. Rule this out first.
- Blown thermal fuse. A safety fuse that trips from overheating, often caused by a clogged vent, cuts the heat.
- Faulty heating element or igniter. Electric dryers use a heating element, gas dryers use an igniter and gas valve. Either can fail.
- Thermostat or sensor fault. A bad thermostat can stop the dryer from calling for heat.
- Incomplete power. An electric dryer runs on 240 volts. If one leg of power is lost, the drum turns but the heat does not work.
Did you know?
Clogged dryer vents cause thousands of house fires every year. Beyond stopping your dryer from heating, a blocked vent is a genuine safety risk, which is why clearing it is always the first thing to check.
What dryer repairs cost in Ottawa
Gas and electric dryers share many parts, but gas models add an igniter and valve. These are broad planning ranges for the Ottawa area.
| Repair | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic or service call | $90 to $160 |
| Thermal fuse replacement | $130 to $280 |
| Heating element (electric) | $200 to $420 |
| Igniter or gas valve (gas) | $200 to $450 |
| Thermostat or sensor | $150 to $320 |
Pricing note: These ranges are estimates based on typical Ottawa market rates as of 2026. Your actual price depends on your specific model, the brand and availability of parts, and whether the visit is scheduled or same day. Parliament Appliance Repair always gives a clear, upfront quote before any work begins.
How to clear the dryer vent
Please note: The steps below are for general guidance only. Parliament Appliance Repair is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from work you attempt yourself. Gas dryers must be serviced by a licensed technician. If you are not comfortable, unplug the appliance and call a licensed technician.
- Unplug the dryer. For a gas dryer, also shut off the gas and call a professional rather than continuing.
- Clean the lint filter. Remove and wash the lint screen, then check it is dry before refitting.
- Disconnect the vent duct. Pull the flexible duct off the back of the dryer.
- Clear the duct and wall vent. Remove lint from the duct and from the exterior wall flap where it exits your home.
- Reconnect and test. Refit the duct, restore power, and run a short heated cycle to confirm the heat is back.
Save your money
Clean the lint filter every load and have the full vent line cleared once a year. A clear vent keeps the dryer heating, cuts drying time, and lowers your power bill. Newer ENERGY STAR certified appliances dry more efficiently too.
When to call a technician
If the vent is clear but the dryer still runs cold, the fault is internal. Heating elements, igniters, thermal fuses and gas parts should be tested and replaced by a professional for safety. We repair both electric and gas models from every brand, including Samsung dryer repair and Whirlpool appliance service, across Stittsville and the Ottawa area.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my dryer running but not heating?
The drum motor and the heat source are separate systems. A dryer can tumble normally while a blown thermal fuse, failed element or igniter, or lost power leg stops the heat.
Is it safe to keep using a dryer that will not heat?
Stop using it until the cause is found. A no-heat fault often traces back to a clogged vent, which is a fire hazard. Clear the vent and have the dryer checked.
How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
At least once a year for most homes, and more often for large households or long vent runs. A clogged vent is the most common cause of poor drying.
Do you repair gas dryers?
Yes. Our technicians service both gas and electric dryers safely. Gas work in Ontario must be done by a qualified technician, never as a DIY job.
Tired of running two cycles to dry one load? Parliament Appliance Repair offers fast, same-day dryer repair across Ottawa and nearby communities. Call (613) 509-1466 or request a free estimate.