GE dryers are a staple in many households, but nothing is more frustrating than finding your clothes still wet or your dryer shutting off mid-cycle due to overheating. As dryer service and repair experts, we’ll discuss problems than can leave you with a GE dryer overheating. We’ll also provide you with tips to avoid future overheating problems.
How to Diagnose and Fix GE Dryer Overheating Issues
Transitioning from the general introduction, let’s dive deep into the reasons why your GE dryer might be overheating. Each problem has its unique characteristics, but don’t worry! We’re here to help you understand and fix them.
Restricted Airflow
Airflow is vital for your dryer’s performance, and restricted airflow can lead to overheating. This problem is often due to a dirty lint screen or a clogged dryer vent.
Causes and Solutions
- Dirty Lint Screen: Regular use can cause lint to accumulate on the screen.
- Fix: Clean the lint screen after every cycle. Use your hands or a soft brush to gently remove lint.
- Prevent: Make it a habit to check and clean the lint screen regularly.
- Dryer Vent is Clogged: Over time, the vent can become clogged with lint and debris.
- Fix: Use a vent cleaning brush to clean the exhaust vent, or hire our professional vent cleaning service.
- Prevent: Schedule regular vent inspections and cleanings to maintain optimal airflow.
For the best results, we strongly recommend contacting Dave Smith Appliance for fast, affordable vent cleaning services.

Heating Element Malfunction
A malfunctioning heating element can cause your dryer to get extremely hot. Understanding why this happens and how to fix it can save you both time and money.
Causes and Solutions
- Stuck in ‘On’ Position: The heating element might stay on continuously.
- Fix: Unplug the dryer, inspect the heating element, and replace it if needed.
- Prevent: Keep your dryer vents clean and inspect the heating element if overheating issues ever reoccur.
Thermostat Failure
The thermostat is a crucial part of regulating your dryer’s temperature. A failure in this component can lead to the dryer shutting off mid-cycle or becoming too hot.
Causes and Solutions
- Inability to Regulate Heat: The thermostat may not function properly.
- Fix: Test the thermostat with a multimeter and replace if defective.
- Prevent: Regular maintenance checks will ensure that the thermostat is working as intended.
Broken Blower Wheel
The blower wheel plays an essential role in maintaining airflow. A broken blower wheel can seriously hinder the dryer’s performance and may even lead to dryer noise.
Causes and Solutions
- Reduced Airflow: The wheel can become damaged or broken.
- Fix: Inspect the blower wheel for damage and replace it if necessary.
- Prevent: Regular inspection of the blower wheel can help detect issues early.
Faulty Thermistor
A thermistor monitors the temperature inside your dryer. When this component fails, it can lead to the dryer being too hot.
Causes and Solutions
- Inaccurate Temperature Monitoring: The thermistor might not monitor the temperature correctly.
- Fix: Test and replace the thermistor if it’s defective.
- Prevent: Schedule routine checks of the thermistor to avoid unexpected malfunctions.
If you’ve tried the above solutions but still have a GE dryer overheating, or if these repairs seem too complex, don’t hesitate to call Dave Smith Appliance Services. We are experts in appliance repair, including professional dishwasher repair services. Let us take the stress out of appliance repair and get your dryer back in perfect working order.