[babs277]

Hi Fella's!
I'm having a problem with my Whirlpool Dryer. All of a sudden it stopped heating entirely. Everything else seems to be working okay ... just ice cold!
I searched this site and performed a few inspections that seemed to be recommended to others with this problem.
First ... I checked the circuit breaker at the box ... turned it off ... waited about 30 seconds and then flipped it back on. NO CHANGE!
Second ... I checked the vent. I went outside to see if there was air flow through it. There was! I cleaned away some lint build up that I could reach, but I don't think that was causing a problem ... I hope.
Third ... I checked the lint trap from inside the dryer. I again cleaned out any lint I could reach. I regularly wash the filter itself, so I know that isn't causing the problem.
That's about it.
I'm thinking (hoping) it's a fuse inside the dryer ... or the thermostat. What do ya'll think?
Many years ago, I fixed our old dryer ... and our washer. Sears had had this service you could buy for $14.99 which gave you 30 days of step by step help over the phone. They helped me diagnose the problems, order the parts and then fix it myself with them on the phone guiding me through any tough parts. Unfortunately, that service is no longer available. SO, I'm here asking for help.
I have the basic tools ... and I'm more than willing to get my hands dirty. Hopefully, there is someone out there with a little patience that is willing to help me out.
I've pulled the dryer out and vacuumed the layers of dust ....
WHAT DO I DO NEXT?
Thanks to anyone taking pity on this old broad who's on a tight budget!
babs

[ApplianceJunk]

Hi,

Could only be a few things, no 240 Vac to the dryer.
Bad thermo fuse.
Bad heating element.

All three can be checked with a multi-meter.

[babs277]

Thanks for replying!
BUT ... what does "no 240 Vac to the dryer" mean? What is a "thermo fuse" and where can I find it? What is a "multi-meter" and where can I find one? My brother-in-law has a lot of electrical stuff that I could borrow. My husband doesn't want him to actually come here to fix it though ... too embarrassed that he can't fix it himself. Crazy??
PLEASE know that I am not stupid ... and that I'm willing and able to learn how to fix this myself. BUT, I need you to tell me what to do ... "like you were talking to a six year-old". I'm a fast learner ... if you have the patience for me.
One other thing ... you didn't mention the thermostat. That's what I replaced on that old dryer. I also replaced the hot/cold mixer "thing" on our washer ... and that big belt thing that makes the washer agitate (what a nightmare that was!). So, I can do this if someone is willing to guide me. I'm assuming that I'd be able to order any parts from somewhere on this site ... right?
Anyway, I hope to hear from you again. We are flat broke, so buying a new dryer ... or even calling a repairman is not an option. My job was downsized/outsourced to India. Thank-you Mr. Bush!
Thanks!
babs