Unlock The Secrets: Is A Blown Thermal Fuse A Death Warrant For Your Whirlpool Dryer?
What To Know
- One of the most common reasons for a dryer to stop working is a blown thermal fuse.
- When the temperature inside the dryer reaches a dangerous level, the thermal fuse blows, cutting off power to the heating element and preventing the dryer from overheating.
- The cost of replacing a thermal fuse in a Whirlpool dryer will vary depending on the model of your dryer and the cost of parts in your area.
Your Whirlpool dryer is a workhorse in your laundry room, but when it suddenly stops working, it can be a major inconvenience. One of the most common reasons for a dryer to stop working is a blown thermal fuse. But what exactly is a thermal fuse, and will your Whirlpool dryer run with one that’s blown?
What is a Thermal Fuse?
A thermal fuse is a safety device designed to prevent overheating in appliances. It is a small, one-time-use fuse that is typically located near the heating element of your dryer. When the temperature inside the dryer reaches a dangerous level, the thermal fuse blows, cutting off power to the heating element and preventing the dryer from overheating.
Symptoms of a Blown Thermal Fuse
If your Whirlpool dryer is not heating up, it could be a sign that the thermal fuse has blown. Here are some other symptoms to look for:
- The dryer runs but does not heat up
- The dryer takes longer than usual to dry clothes
- The dryer smells like burning plastic or rubber
Can a Whirlpool Dryer Run with a Blown Thermal Fuse?
The answer is no. A Whirlpool dryer will not run with a blown thermal fuse. The thermal fuse is a critical safety device, and it must be replaced before the dryer can be used again.
How to Replace a Thermal Fuse
Replacing a thermal fuse is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself. Here are the steps:
1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Remove the back panel of the dryer.
3. Locate the thermal fuse. It is typically located near the heating element.
4. Disconnect the wires from the thermal fuse.
5. Install the new thermal fuse.
6. Reconnect the wires to the thermal fuse.
7. Replace the back panel of the dryer.
8. Plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
Other Possible Causes of a Whirlpool Dryer Not Heating Up
If you have replaced the thermal fuse and your Whirlpool dryer is still not heating up, there could be another problem. Here are some other possible causes:
- Faulty heating element
- Faulty thermostat
- Faulty control board
- Clogged lint filter
- Restricted airflow
How to Prevent a Blown Thermal Fuse
There are a few things you can do to help prevent a blown thermal fuse:
- Clean the lint filter after every load.
- Make sure the dryer is properly vented.
- Do not overload the dryer.
- Do not dry items that are not suitable for machine drying.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you are having trouble replacing the thermal fuse or troubleshooting a Whirlpool dryer that is not heating up, here are some tips:
- Use a multimeter to test the thermal fuse.
- Check the wiring for any loose or damaged connections.
- Reset the dryer’s control board.
- Call a qualified appliance repair technician.
What People Want to Know
Q: How do I know if the thermal fuse in my Whirlpool dryer is blown?
A: The most common symptom of a blown thermal fuse is that the dryer will not heat up. Other symptoms include a burning smell or a longer drying time.
Q: Can I replace the thermal fuse in my Whirlpool dryer myself?
A: Yes, replacing a thermal fuse is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances, it is best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.
Q: How much does it cost to replace a thermal fuse in a Whirlpool dryer?
A: The cost of replacing a thermal fuse in a Whirlpool dryer will vary depending on the model of your dryer and the cost of parts in your area. However, the average cost is between $20 and $50.
