A commercial dryer that won't heat is the most costly single-machine failure in a laundromat. Customers leave, revenue drops, and the problem compounds as remaining dryers get overworked. Updated for May 2026, this guide walks you through diagnosis for both gas and electric commercial dryers — step by step.
Gas Dryer: No Heat Diagnosis
Gas dryers account for 85%+ of commercial installations. Here's the diagnostic sequence, in order of likelihood:
| Component | Failure Rate | Symptoms | Part Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Igniter | 35% | Glows orange but no flame | $25–$60 |
| Flame Sensor | 25% | Ignites then shuts off in 10-30 sec | $15–$40 |
| Gas Valve Coils | 20% | Igniter glows, no gas flow | $20–$50 |
| Hi-Limit Thermostat | 10% | No ignition attempt at all | $15–$35 |
| Airflow Restriction | 10% | Intermittent heat, long dry times | $0 (cleaning) |
Expert Insight
Always replace gas valve coils in pairs, even if only one has failed. They wear at the same rate, and the labor cost to go back in is more than the $20 part. This is the most common mistake I see operators make.
Electric Dryer: No Heat Diagnosis
Electric commercial dryers are simpler but repairs can be more expensive due to heating element costs:
- Check the breaker — Electric dryers need 240V. A single leg tripping means the drum spins but no heat
- Test the heating element — Continuity check with a multimeter ($80-$250 to replace)
- Inspect thermal fuses — One-time use safety devices ($10-$25 each)
- Check the cycling thermostat — Regulates temperature during the cycle ($15-$40)
Pro Tip
Before any dryer repair, always check the exhaust duct with a manometer or wind gauge. Back-pressure above 0.6" WC means the duct needs cleaning. Restricted airflow causes 30%+ of all "no heat" complaints and accelerates component failure.
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Request Your Free Equipment QuoteWhen to Call a Professional vs. DIY
Most igniter, flame sensor, and thermostat replacements are straightforward with basic tools. Gas valve and control board work should be done by a certified technician. For instant diagnosis before you call anyone, use Service Guy AI — enter your symptoms or error code and get a parts list in seconds.
If the machine is older than 12 years and repair cost exceeds $300, use our ROI calculator to compare against new equipment from a CLEANBI-scored location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my commercial dryer heat sometimes but not others?
Intermittent heating is almost always caused by failing gas valve coils or a dirty flame sensor. The coils weaken over time and can't hold the valve open consistently, especially as they heat up during extended operation.
How much does it cost to fix a commercial dryer that won't heat?
Most gas dryer heating repairs cost $80-$250 including parts and labor. The most common fix (igniter replacement) costs $85-$150 total. Electric heating element replacement runs $150-$350. Get detailed cost breakdowns from our laundromat calculators.
Can a clogged lint trap cause a dryer not to heat?
Yes — restricted airflow causes the hi-limit thermostat to trip, cutting power to the gas valve or heating element. The fix is free (cleaning), but the thermostat may need replacement if it has been tripped repeatedly.
How do I check if my dryer igniter is bad?
Watch through the inspection port: if the igniter glows orange for 30+ seconds without gas igniting, either the igniter is too weak (cracked element) or the gas valve coils aren't opening. Use Service Guy AI to walk through the full diagnosis.
Written by Nick Kremers, third-generation laundromat professional. For error code lookup, visit our error codes database. Browse equipment on the marketplace.