Maytag MED4500MW Dryer Not Heating – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your Maytag MED4500MW dryer tumbles but produces little or no heat, the cause is usually a failed heating component, a safety cutoff, or a power-supply problem. Electric dryers require both 120V legs (240V total) to the heating element; if one leg is missing the motor will run but the element won’t heat. Mechanical parts such as the heating element, thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat or cycling thermostat can also fail and stop heating. Diagnosing this is a process of elimination: start with basic checks (venting and proper electrical supply), then move to continuity tests on the thermal fuse and heating element with a multimeter. Many MED4500MW repairs are straightforward and cost-effective when you identify the single faulty part, but always disconnect power before working on the dryer and observe electrical safety precautions.
Common Symptoms
Dryer drum spins but laundry stays cold or only slightly warm; circuit breaker not tripped; dryer runs full cycle without heating; long drying times.
Common Causes
- Blown thermal fuse (safety cutoff)
- Open/burned heating element or broken element coil
- Faulty cycling thermostat, high-limit thermostat, or temperature sensor
- Missing one 120V leg (power supply issue)
- Blocked/dirty vent or lint screen causing overheating and tripping safety cutoff
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Before replacing parts, disconnect power and use a multimeter to check continuity: the thermal fuse and heating element should show continuity (closed). Also verify the dryer is getting 240V at the terminal block—if only 120V is present, the dryer motor will run but the element won’t heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test the thermal fuse and heating element?
Unplug the dryer. Access the thermal fuse (usually on the blower housing) and the heating element assembly (rear panel or front lower panel depending on model). Set a multimeter to continuity or ohms. A good thermal fuse and element should show continuity (close to 0 ohms for the element, a small resistance for the fuse). An open reading (OL) means the part is blown and should be replaced. Always replace the thermal fuse if it’s open; do not bypass it.
After replacing the heating element the dryer still won't heat — what's next?
If the new element checks OK, verify: 1) the dryer is receiving 240V at the terminal block (use a meter to check voltage across the two hot terminals), 2) the thermal fuse and thermostats have continuity (replace any open safety parts), and 3) the vent and lint screen are clear. Also inspect wiring and the timer or electronic control for burned contacts or faulty relays. If you’re not getting 240V, check the household breaker or the dryer’s power cord and terminal connections.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.