LG Dryer Error Code SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING — How to Fix (Dryer Not Heating)

Fix LG Dryer SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING with our step‑by‑step guide. Includes tools, parts, cost estimate, warranty info, and maintenance tips.

⏱️ Time30‑45 minutes

📋 DifficultyMedium

🔧 Model(various models)

⚠️ ErrorSYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING

What Does Error Code SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING Mean?

Error SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING on your LG Dryer means: The SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING code appears when the dryer runs but does not produce hot air. It means the heating circuit—electric element, gas valve, or a safety device—has lost continuity, so the dryer stops heating to prevent a fire.

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
T20 Torx bit
Digital multimeter (continuity/ohms mode)
7 mm and 8 mm nut driver set
Shop‑vac with hose attachment
Flexible vent brush (optional)

🛒 Parts

Heating element (electric models) or gas valve assembly (gas models)
Thermal fuse
High‑limit thermostat

How to Fix Error SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING — Step by Step

1

Power‑Cycle the Dryer

Turn off the dryer at the circuit breaker, wait 2 minutes, then turn the breaker back on. Plug the dryer back in, start a short timed cycle, and watch for the SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING code. If it disappears, the problem was a transient glitch.

💡 Pro Tip: Leave the door open while the unit is unplugged to let any stored charge drain from the electronics.
2

Inspect and Clean the Exhaust Vent

Detach the vent hose from the dryer’s rear. Use a shop‑vac and a flexible brush to clear lint from the hose, the dryer’s vent opening, and the exterior vent cap. Re‑attach the hose, making sure it isn’t kinked.

💡 Pro Tip: A clear vent reduces overheating, which is a common cause of a blown thermal fuse.
3

Test the Thermal Fuse

Locate the thermal fuse on the blower housing (usually a small rectangular part with two wires). Disconnect the wires, set the multimeter to continuity, and touch the probes to the fuse terminals. A good fuse will beep (≈0 Ω). If the meter shows infinite resistance, replace the fuse.

💡 Pro Tip: Even an intact fuse may show scorch marks—this signals a vent blockage that could recur.
4

Check the High‑Limit Thermostat

The thermostat sits near the heating element. Disconnect its two wires, then measure continuity. At room temperature the thermostat should conduct (≈0 Ω). An open reading means the thermostat is faulty and must be swapped.

💡 Pro Tip: Some LG models use a pair of thermostats; test both to avoid missing a hidden failure.
5

Verify Heating Element Continuity (Electric Dryers)

Remove the rear panel to expose the heating element coils. Disconnect the element’s connector, then place multimeter probes on the element terminals. A healthy element reads low resistance (typically 15‑30 Ω). An open circuit (∞ Ω) indicates a broken coil that needs replacement.

💡 Pro Tip: If you see partial resistance, look for a burnt spot or a broken coil before ordering a new part.
6

Inspect the Gas Valve Assembly (Gas Dryers)

With the dryer unplugged, locate the gas valve behind the control panel. Disconnect the electrical connector and measure the solenoid coil resistance (≈300‑500 Ω). No continuity means the coil has failed; replace the valve. Also confirm that the gas supply line is open and that the igniter glows during a cycle.

💡 Pro Tip: Never adjust gas pressure yourself; a certified technician should handle any gas‑line work.
7

Reassemble and Run a Test Cycle

Reconnect all wires, secure the panels with the Phillips #2 screwdriver, and restore power. Select a timed cycle on high heat. Warm air should flow within a few minutes. If the SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING code returns, the control board may be at fault.

💡 Pro Tip: Write down the resistance values you recorded; they help a technician pinpoint the problem quickly.

When to Call a Professional

Call a licensed technician if you smell gas, detect a leak, the dryer still shows the error after replacing the heating element and safety devices, or if the control board shows burnt traces. Also, if the drum does not turn after you’ve verified all heating components, the motor or main board likely needs expert attention.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Follow this visual guide to systematically diagnose Error SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING:

Diagnostic Flowchart — SYMPTOM‑NOT‑HEATING

The LG Dryer error SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of a laundry cycle. This error code indicates that your dryer is running but not producing hot air, which can be caused by a variety of factors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the possible causes, troubleshooting steps, and repair options to get your dryer heating again.

What LG Dryer Error SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING Actually Means

The SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code on your LG dryer means that the heating circuit, which includes the electric element, gas valve, or a safety device, has lost continuity. This loss of continuity causes the dryer to stop heating to prevent a potential fire. The error code is a safety feature designed to protect you and your home from potential hazards.

The heating circuit is triggered by a sensor or component that detects an issue, such as a faulty thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, or heating element. It’s essential to identify and address the root cause to ensure your dryer operates safely and efficiently.

Is it safe to keep using the appliance? No, it’s not recommended to continue using your dryer with the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code. While the dryer may still run, it won’t produce hot air, and ignoring the issue can lead to more severe problems, including a potential fire.

Initial Diagnostic Steps (Before Calling Anyone)

Before calling a professional or investing in repairs, perform these quick checks:

Power cycle: Turn off the dryer at the circuit breaker, wait 2 minutes, and turn it back on. This simple reset can sometimes resolve the issue.
Inspect the exhaust vent: Detach the vent hose from the dryer’s rear and use a shop-vac to clean out any debris or lint accumulation. A clogged vent can cause heating issues.
Check for blockages: Ensure the dryer’s venting system is not blocked or kinked, which can restrict airflow and cause heating problems.

What Triggers This Error Code

Here are the possible causes of the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code, ranked by likelihood:

1. Faulty Thermal Fuse

Description: The thermal fuse is a safety device that blows if the dryer overheats. A faulty thermal fuse can prevent the heating circuit from functioning.
Verification: Use a multimeter to test the thermal fuse for continuity. If it shows no continuity, it’s likely faulty.
Fix difficulty: Easy to moderate
Cost: $10-$20

2. High-Limit Thermostat Issue

Description: The high-limit thermostat monitors the dryer’s temperature and shuts off the heating element if it exceeds a certain threshold. A faulty thermostat can prevent the heating circuit from functioning.
Verification: Test the thermostat for continuity using a multimeter. If it shows no continuity, it’s likely faulty.
Fix difficulty: Moderate
Cost: $20-$50

3. Heating Element Failure (Electric Dryers)

Description: The heating element is responsible for producing heat in electric dryers. A faulty heating element can prevent the dryer from heating.
Verification: Remove the rear panel and use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. If it shows no continuity, it’s likely faulty.
Fix difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Cost: $50-$100

4. Gas Valve Assembly Issue (Gas Dryers)

Description: The gas valve assembly controls the gas flow to the burner. A faulty gas valve assembly can prevent the dryer from heating.
Verification: Inspect the gas valve assembly for any blockages or damage. Use a multimeter to test the valve for continuity.
Fix difficulty: Challenging
Cost: $100-$200

Step 5: Detailed Walkthrough of the #1 Cause

Let’s take a closer look at replacing the thermal fuse, the most common cause of the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code.

Safety warnings:

Unplug the dryer from the power outlet before starting the repair.
Wear protective gloves and safety glasses.

Tool list:

Phillips #2 screwdriver
T20 Torx bit
Digital multimeter (continuity/ohms mode)

Time estimate: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Unplug the dryer and locate the thermal fuse on the blower housing.
Remove the screws holding the thermal fuse in place.
Gently pull the thermal fuse out of its mounting bracket.
Use a multimeter to test the thermal fuse for continuity. If it shows no continuity, it’s faulty.
Replace the thermal fuse with a new one (part number: [insert part number]).
Reassemble the dryer and plug it back in.

What “fixed” looks like vs “still broken”:

If the thermal fuse was faulty, replacing it should resolve the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code. Run a test cycle to ensure the dryer heats properly.
If the issue persists, proceed to the next possible cause.

Variations Across Product Lines

While the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code is common across many LG dryer models, some models may have variations in their heating circuits or safety devices. Here are some model-specific differences:

LG Electric Dryer models (2015 and later): These models have a redesigned heating element that’s more prone to failure. Replacing the heating element may require additional steps.
LG Gas Dryer models (2018 and later): These models have an updated gas valve assembly that’s more complex to repair.

Price Range for This Repair

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the repair costs:

Repair Option	DIY Cost	Parts Cost	Professional Labor
Thermal fuse replacement	$10-$20	$10-$20	$100-$200
High-limit thermostat replacement	$20-$50	$20-$50	$150-$300
Heating element replacement (electric dryers)	$50-$100	$50-$100	$200-$400
Gas valve assembly replacement (gas dryers)	$100-$200	$100-$200	$300-$500

Proactive Maintenance Checklist

To prevent the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code from recurring:

Regularly clean the exhaust vent: Use a shop-vac and flexible vent brush to remove lint and debris.
Check and replace worn-out parts: Inspect the thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, and heating element regularly. Replace them if necessary.
Run a cleaning cycle: Run a cleaning cycle every 1-2 months to remove lint and debris.

Red Flags That Mean Call a Repair Service

If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs or if the issue persists after trying the troubleshooting steps:

Call a professional: Contact an authorized LG service provider or a reputable appliance repair technician.
What to expect: The technician will diagnose the issue, provide a detailed estimate, and perform the repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions and answers:

Q: What causes the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code on my LG dryer? A: The error code is usually caused by a faulty thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, or heating element.
Q: Can I still use my dryer with the SYMPTOM-NOT-HEATING error code? A: No, it’s not recommended to continue using your dryer with this error code, as it can lead to more severe problems.
Q: How much does it cost to replace the heating element on my LG electric dryer? A: The cost of replacing the heating element can range from $50 to $100, depending on the model and labor costs.
Q: Can I clean the exhaust vent myself? A: Yes, you can clean the exhaust vent using a shop-vac and flexible vent brush.
Q: How often should I run a cleaning cycle on my LG dryer? A: Run a cleaning cycle every 1-2 months to remove lint and debris.

For more information on LG dryer error codes, visit our pages on LG Dryer error d80, LG Dryer error d95, or LG Dishwasher error HE.

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