As an Amazon affiliate, we earn a commision from qualifying purchases.
So your Kenmore 80 series dryer is not heating?
Well, this is a pretty common problem when it comes to this dryer model and the best news is that it is possible to save your dryer (while saving some good money) if you like DIY stuff.
With that in mind, below is what you should try if you’re trying to fix your appliance…
Kenmore 80 series dryer not heating – recommended repairs
We shall start with Kenmore 80 series electric dryer
Kenmore 80 series dryer not heating-troubleshooting Kenmore 80 series electrical dryer
Clean the dryer vent
With a clogged vent, they will be no good airflow(airflow will be blocked) to your unit.
And the thing is your dryer will not cycle heat correctly if airflow is hindered
So clean the entire exhaust system including the dryer lint filter/trap –be sure to clear any lint buildup in the filter housing as well.
Replace the thermal fuse
The thermal fuse typically blows (to prevent possible fire) if the dryer overheats due obstructions/clogging in the exhaust system.
For that reason, check and change out the Thermal fuse(see how to test thermal fuse on dryer [Steps]).
Shop genuine Kenmore 80 series dryer thermal fuse from Amazon
Swap out the heating element
Usually, with a bad heating element, there no heating will occur in the dryer.
Consequently, consider swapping out the heating element(See how to test heating element in dryer quickly)
You can order OEM Kenmore 80 series dryer heating element here(Amazon link) and follow a DIY video(search on YouTube) to perform the replacement.
Another thing worth inspecting while still there is wiring(to/around the heating element)- look for probable breaks(and patch up any with copper wire).
Change the cycling thermostat
If your Kenmore 80 series dryer runs but there’s no heating or there’s little heat, then installing a new Cycling Thermostat could solve the lack of heat problem.
For starters, this thermostat regulates temp inside of the dryer drum and it’s found on the blower housing/internal airflow ducting.
Of course, you may want to test it first- and performing a continuity test is the best diagnostic procedure
You can again order a Cycling Thermostat on Amazon (the package comes with a thermal fuse, as it oftentimes makes sense to replace them both)
Replace the high-limit thermostat
The high-limit thermostat tends to go when it senses higher-than-usual temps and it could be the part that you need to change out.
Quick Tip: Instead of paying for the parts separately, you can go for this inexpensive dryer heating issues repair kit(it comes with genuine Kenmore 80 series dryer cycling thermostat, high-limit thermostat, thermal cut-off switch, and thermal fuse-replacing all the 4 parts could fix heating issues).
Fix possible incoming power problem
Your electrical Kenmore 80 series dry operates on 240-volts power so, in case of a power sag, it might not be getting sufficient power supply, making it run without heating enough.
Here you will have to wait for the power to go back to normal/you can call the power company to come and check things for you
Replace the timer
The role of a dryer timer is to count-down the time (you have selected), and once it is done, it automatically switches off your dryer(it stops heating).
Now, if a timer is defective, your dryer could either fail to give heat or it run continuously until it gets too hot, making the thermal fuse to blow.
So consider replacing the timer, especially if the thermal fuse keeps blowing.
Check your drying setting –it could be the problem
This is the other thing you should look at- you specifically want to double check the air dry/air fluffy cycle is not selected(turn it off, if active).
That’s because if this is the case, your dryer won’t heat enough because the dryer dries at room temperature here.
Kenmore 80 series dryer not heating-Gas dryer
If your gas dryer has problems heating, here are extra things to try:
Check if the burner ignitor is fine
To check:
- Select a high temp setting (on timed dry) then start the dryer.
- Observe the burner assembly- Peak through the hole to see if the ignitor is glowing- shortly after you start the dryer. Remove the access panel.
If the igniter is bad, it will not glow/spark and there will not be heating in your dryer.
So get a replacement here and put it in.
Replace the flame sensor- it could have failed
The job of a flame sensor is to detect the heat from the flame and your dryer might not heat if the flame sensor is troubled.
Recommended repair:
Your best bet is buying a new flame sensor and replacing it.
Change the gas valve solenoid (it could be bad)
In a gas dryer, a gas valve solenoid controls the flow of natural gas to the burner and your dryer might have heating problems if it has shorted out.
Recommended repair:
Replacing this part will be your only option.
Quick Tip: One of the best signs that it’s a solenoid issue is your Kenmore 80 series dryer heating only for a couple of minutes and then stop heating
Kenmore 80 series dryer not heating -Final words
As you might have noted, most of the above parts need to be replaced.
Needless to say, you should test the parts to be sure they’re the culprit before purchasing a replacement (you don’t want your money to do down the drain).
Luckily, there are numerous really good videos demonstrating how to test and replace bad dryer parts on YouTube so be sure to search for relevant ones (depending on the component you suspect).
Also, check your Kenmore 80 series dryer manual and the tech service sheet (it’s hidden in your dryer) for further troubleshooting tips
ALSO READ:
Kenmore 70 series dryer not heating [Solved]
