Electric dryer problem

K

KRS

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May 15, 2004
Messages
2,383
I have a Whirpool special edition 3-cycle electric dryer.

Over the last 2 weeks, it has developed a quirk. During the time dry/permanent press cycle, the dryer will just shut down for no apparent reason. Just press the Start button again and it continues.

It seems to shutoff around every 20 minutes or so.

I checked the vent to be sure it isn't clogged, and it isn't, it's blowing strong and the dryer appliance housing isn't overly warm. We don't have to rotate the timer to make it start again.

I'm dumbfounded at what the problem could be?

If you have any thoughts, please feel free to share :)
 
WillyBWright

WillyBWright

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Dec 29, 2003
Messages
8,200
Re: Electric dryer problem

Make sure the door sensor switch and trigger are tight. And make sure the door is closing completely and staying snug. Also make sure the dryer is level if not slightly tipped back. The load may be pushing the door just enough to trip the switch and shut it off.
 
Bob_VT

Bob_VT

Moderator & Unofficial iBoats Historian
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May 19, 2001
Messages
26,079
Re: Electric dryer problem

Thermal Cut Off Switch could be going bad.... not hard to replace.
 
K

KRS

Banned
Joined
May 15, 2004
Messages
2,383
Re: Electric dryer problem

I checked the door and pulled on it until it came open and shutoff the machine... it's very snug and the sensor is adjusted so the door has to be open about 1.5" before it shuts off, so I'm fairly certain the door switch is okay. Make sure the door sensor switch and trigger are tight. I didn't think of rechecking the level.

Where would a Thermal Cut Off Switch be located?
 
puddle jumper

puddle jumper

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Jul 5, 2006
Messages
3,830
Re: Electric dryer problem

On my dryer i had a similar problem and what i found was i had to remove the drum and clean out the lint from behind it.I was also getting a burnt smell.
 
N

nothreat

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Aug 7, 2004
Messages
123
Re: Electric dryer problem

I had a Kenmore that did the same thing. I fought that thing for several days. I discovered that my exhaust was plugged several feet way from the dryer. Unplugged it and still had the same problem. Ended up replacing the motor and the problem went away. Examining the old motor I found evidence of severe overheating on the windings. I figure the motor overheated often enough that it was damaged somehow. I even tried putting it back in after the new motor had worked well for a couple of weeks and the problem came back. A new motor was about $95 and took maybe 30 minutes to replace (took me longer to put a new belt on the stupid thing).
 
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