- A dryer that won’t start or run may have a bad thermal fuse.
- If the dryer drum is not turning, it could be due to a faulty thermal fuse.
- Another sign of a bad thermal fuse is if the dryer is overheating and shutting off before the cycle is complete.
- If the dryer timer isn’t advancing, it could be due to a blown thermal fuse.
- A burnt smell coming from the dryer may also indicate a bad thermal fuse.
Is your dryer not heating up like it used to? Are you constantly finding damp clothes after running a cycle? These are just a few of the frustrating signs that could be pointing to a bad thermal fuse in your dryer.
As we all know, laundry day is already enough of a hassle without having to deal with malfunctioning appliances. But the truth is, ignoring these warning signs can lead to even bigger problems down the line. From increased energy bills to potential fire hazards, a faulty thermal fuse isn’t something you want to overlook.
So if you’re experiencing any of these issues, don’t wait until it’s too late. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about identifying and fixing a bad thermal fuse in your dryer. Get ready for some hands-on troubleshooting and learn how to get your laundry routine back on track!
The Quick Answer:
When a thermal fuse fails in a dryer, it can cause several issues, including failure to start or heat up, stopping mid-cycle, and an overheating or burning smell. The thermal fuse works by interrupting power to the heating element if temperatures rise too high inside the machine. If it fails, it needs immediate attention to prevent potential safety hazards.
Common Signs of a Bad Thermal Fuse in a Dryer
When a thermal fuse goes bad in your dryer, it can cause several issues that are easy to notice. Some of the most common signs of a bad thermal fuse in a dryer include:
Click here to preview your posts with PRO themes ››
Dryer won’t start
If you push the start button on your dryer and nothing happens, it could be due to a faulty thermal fuse. A thermal fuse is designed to prevent the dryer from overheating and causing a fire. If it blows, the dryer will not operate until it is replaced.
Dryer runs but doesn’t heat up
Another sign of a bad thermal fuse is when the dryer runs but fails to heat up. The thermal fuse controls the temperature inside the dryer by cutting off power to the heating element if it gets too hot. When it fails, this safety mechanism may prevent the heating element from working correctly.
Dryer stops mid-cycle
If your dryer stops running partway through its cycle, it could be due to a faulty thermal fuse. This component can wear out over time or become damaged by an electrical surge or short circuit, which can cause it to fail.
Overheating or burning smell
Finally, if you notice an overheating or burning smell coming from your dryer, turn off the appliance immediately and unplug it from the wall. This could indicate that something has gone wrong with the thermal fuse or another component in your dryer and needs immediate attention.
How a Thermal Fuse Works in a Dryer and What Happens When it Fails
A thermal fuse is an essential safety component in many dryers that helps prevent them from overheating and causing fires. It works by interrupting power to the heating element if temperatures rise too high inside the machine.
When everything is working correctly, the thermal fuse should remain closed and allow current to flow through it. If the temperature inside the dryer exceeds a certain threshold, however, the fuse will open up and cut off power to the heating element.
When a thermal fuse fails, it can cause several issues with your dryer. For example, if it blows, your dryer may not start or run at all. Alternatively, it may keep running but fail to heat up properly.
In some cases, a faulty thermal fuse can also cause other components in your dryer to malfunction or overheat. This can result in overheating or even fire hazards if left unchecked.
Click here to preview your posts with PRO themes ››
Potential Causes of Thermal Fuse Failure in a Dryer
Several factors can contribute to thermal fuse failure in dryers:
Overheating
As mentioned earlier, a thermal fuse’s primary function is to prevent overheating in dryers that could lead to fires. However, if the appliance overheats frequently due to blocked vents or dirty filters, it can cause the thermal fuse to wear out prematurely.
Electrical surges
Another common cause of thermal fuse failure is electrical surges. Power fluctuations in your home’s electrical system can damage sensitive components like fuses and short-lived appliances like dryers.
Age and wear
Thermal fuses have a lifespan that varies depending on their quality and usage conditions. After several years of use or continuous operation at high temperatures, they may become worn out and less effective at regulating temperatures inside your dryer.
Testing a Thermal Fuse to Determine if it’s Faulty
If you suspect that your dryer’s thermal fuse has gone bad, you can test it using a multimeter. Here’s how:
- Unplug your dryer from the wall.
- Locate the thermal fuse, which is usually near the heating element or blower housing.
- Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the thermal fuse. If it reads “infinity” or shows no continuity, the fuse has blown and needs to be replaced.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Your Dryer’s Thermal Fuse is Bad
If you have reason to believe that your dryer’s thermal fuse is faulty, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
- Check for other potential problems: Before assuming that the thermal fuse is the culprit, make sure all other components of your dryer are working correctly. This includes checking for clogged vents, dirty filters, damaged power cords, and more.
- Replace the thermal fuse: If you’ve ruled out other potential issues and determined that the thermal fuse is indeed bad, replace it with a new one. You can find replacement fuses at most home improvement or appliance stores.
- Have a professional inspect your dryer: If you’re not comfortable replacing the thermal fuse yourself or suspect that there may be other underlying issues with your dryer, contact a professional technician for assistance.
In conclusion, identifying signs of a bad thermal fuse in your dryer is crucial as it can prevent potential hazards and ensure the longevity of your appliance. Regular maintenance and replacement of faulty parts can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the long run.
Click here to preview your posts with PRO themes ››
Frequently Asked Questions about Signs of Bad Thermal Fuse in Dryer
What will dryer do if thermal fuse is blown?
When the temperature in a dryer gets too high, a thermal fuse will blow and stop generating heat. This happens regardless of how much current is being drawn. Before the dryer can be used again, the blown thermal fuse must be replaced.
Will dryer spin with bad thermal fuse?
The thermal fuse in your dryer is an important safety mechanism that turns off the dryer if it becomes too hot. Although it’s designed to shut down the entire machine, if the thermal fuse malfunctions, it may only stop power to the motor while the heating element continues to run. This could be the cause of your dryer’s failure to spin.
How to tell if thermal fuse is bad on dryer without a multimeter?
If you don’t have a multimeter, there are other ways to check if a fuse is working. You can use a light bulb, voltage tester, or non-contact voltage detector. If none of these tools indicate that the fuse is working, it needs to be replaced. You can also visually inspect the fuse for any signs of damage.
How much does it cost to replace a thermal fuse in a dryer?
The average cost for replacing a thermal fuse on a dryer is between $75 and $150, with the thermal fuse itself costing anywhere from $5 to $10 for a generic part and up to $60 for OEM parts. This device is important for safety as it stops the motor when the dryer becomes overheated. This information was last updated on April 5, 2023.
How long does a thermal fuse last?
Thermal fuse’s Holding Temperature (Th) refers to the maximum temperature it can withstand without breaking the circuit while carrying the rated current for 168 hours.
Why is my dryer spinning but not getting hot?
If the thermal fuse in your dryer has tripped, you may notice that it is spinning but not producing heat. In some cases, the dryer may not even turn on at all. Attempting to reset the fuse may work, but typically it will need to be replaced.
Charlie Thomson is Appliance Mastery's expert on laundry appliances. With a degree in mechanical engineering and over 8 years of experience in the appliance repair industry, Charlie is a go-to resource for homeowners who want to tackle common issues with their washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers.