If it isn’t working at all there are a few things you can try.

1. No Power
Make sure that the power cord is plugged in. Unplug and plug it back in. Check the breakers to make sure it hasn’t tripped or that a fuse is not blown. You can also use a volt meter to check the plug itself to make sure there is power going to the plug.

2. Door Switch
In the door is a switch or sensor that when you close the door it presses against a lever which then activates a door switch which allows the dryer to start up. If that lever becomes broken the switch can’t activate and then the dryer can’t start. You may need to replace this lever.

3. Thermal Fuse
Almost every dryer on the market has a thermal fuse. This fuse will burn out if the dryer overheats. When this happens one of two things occur. The dryer either completely stops working or it runs but it doesn’t throw any heat. You will usually find this fuse under the vent duck inside the dryer. If the fuse is blown you will want to replace it.

4. Defective Timers
Occasionally the timer on a dryer can be defective so that even if you have turned the dryer on it doesn’t recognize the motion and thus the dryer doesn’t start.

If there is no heat there are a few things you can try.

1. Gas Valve Coils
If the igniter glows but then shuts off before it ignites the gas chances are the problem is a coil that is defective. Replace all of the coils – there are usually at least a couple and sometimes more. It is also possible that the gas valve itself needs to be replaced.

2. Thermal Fuse
If the dryer overheats the thermal fuse will burn out with means your dryer will either not run at all or it will run but not throw any heat. Look on the vent duct inside the dryer – this is where you will normally find the fuse. Replace it.

3. Igniter
The igniter can be defective or because it is so fragile it can easily become broken. You should never touch the igniter except for the ceramic part.

4. Flame Sensor
This sensor is near the igniter and you will need to replace it if it is defective or worn out.

If your dryer blows heat but takes far too long to dry the clothing there are a few things you can check.

1. Vents
Check the vent hose and vent itself to make sure there are no clogs. Lint accumulates inside the dryer and if you don’t clean out the dryer regularly it lands up in the vent pipe itself which reduces the efficiency of the dryer and increases the fire risk.

2. Thermostat
A dryer has a thermostat that regulates the heating cycles and this thermostat can burn out over time or it can be defective. It’s very easy to replace and should be readily available.

If you are a home handyman these dryer repair tips are a great place to start. If that doesn’t work perhaps it’s time to call a repairman. But why not try to save a few dollars first?