Understanding how glue guns work
Before troubleshooting a glue gun that won’t heat up, it’s essential to understand how these tools work. Glue guns use electricity to heat up a heating element, which in turn melts the glue stick placed in the gun’s chamber. The melted glue is then dispensed through the gun’s nozzle to the area where it’s needed. A faulty glue gun can be frustrating, considering how much they are relied upon for various tasks, including DIY projects and repairs.
Check the power cord
One of the most common reasons why a glue gun won’t heat up is a faulty power cord. Start by checking the cord for any visible damage, such as cuts or fraying. If there is any damage to the power cord, do not use the gun and unplug it immediately. Also, check if the plug is firmly inserted into the electrical outlet. If all looks good, try plugging the gun into a different outlet.
Inspect the heating element
The heating element is responsible for melting the glue stick and dispensing the melted glue through the nozzle. Check if the heating element is visibly damaged, such as burnt or heavily stained. Wipe the heating element gently with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue that may have accumulated over time. If the heating element is burnt, it needs to be replaced.
Replace the glue stick
If the glue gun still won’t heat up after checking the power cord and heating element, the issue could be a faulty glue stick. The glue stick may be too old or too large for the gun, and it’s not reaching the heating element to melt. Try using a fresh glue stick that’s the appropriate size for the gun. Also, make sure to only use high-temperature glue sticks for high-temperature glue guns and low-temperature glue sticks for low-temperature glue guns.
Take it to a professional
If none of the above solutions work, it’s best to take the glue gun to a professional for repair. Attempting to disassemble the gun may lead to more damage, making it even harder to fix. Look up local repair shops that specialize in fixing glue guns or contact the manufacturer for advice on where to take the gun for repairs.
