Whirlpool WED5620HWO Dryer Not Heating — What Part Fixes This?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your Whirlpool WED5620HWO dryer tumbles but clothes stay damp or cold, the issue is almost always in the dryer’s heating circuit rather than the motor or drum. Electric dryers heat using a heating element and a series of safety and control devices (thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, cycling thermostat). Any of these can fail and prevent heat production while the drum continues to spin. Diagnosing the problem systematically saves time and parts. Start with the simplest and most common failure points: the thermal fuse and heating element. Then check thermostats and wiring. Many failures are caused or worsened by restricted venting (poor airflow) which can trip thermal limits and damage components—always verify venting and lint screen clearance before replacing parts.
Common Symptoms
Dryer motor runs and drum turns but there is little or no heat; cycles take much longer; clothes are still damp; sometimes dryer trips breaker or has blown fuses after repeatedly attempting to heat.
Common Causes
- Blown thermal fuse (most common on Whirlpool electric dryers)
- Open or broken heating element/coil
- Failed cycling thermostat or high-limit thermostat
- Control board or timer contact failure
- Blocked/dirty venting causing overheating and safety cutouts
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, remove the vent and run the dryer for 5–10 minutes. If it produces heat with the vent removed, inspect/clean the venting. To confirm failed components, disconnect power and test for continuity with a multimeter: thermal fuse and heating element should show continuity; a trapped open reading usually identifies the bad part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the thermal fuse or heating element myself?
Yes — many homeowners with basic tools can replace these parts. Always unplug the dryer (or switch off the breaker) before starting. Access to the thermal fuse and heating element typically requires removing the back panel or front/top depending on model. Keep track of screw/terminal locations and disconnect wires one at a time, noting their positions or taking photos. If you’re uncomfortable with electrical testing or accessing internal components, hire a qualified appliance technician.
How do I test the thermal fuse and heating element?
1) Unplug the dryer. 2) Locate the thermal fuse (usually on the blower housing or near the heating element). 3) Disconnect the wires from the fuse. 4) Set a multimeter to the continuity or lowest ohms range and place the probes on each terminal of the fuse — a good fuse shows continuity (close to 0 ohms); an open fuse shows infinite/no continuity. 5) To test the heating element, disconnect it from wiring and check continuity across the element terminals; an open reading means the element is broken. Also inspect the element visually for obvious breaks or burnt spots. If either part is open, replace it and re-test the dryer (also check venting and thermostats).
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.