How to Test and Change the Thermostat of a Dryer

The tumble dryer is a complementary household appliance to the washing machine, which works on an internal heating system. The air is sucked in from the outside by a turbine, it is then heated by the resistors of the dryer. The moist air turns into water which is finally stored in a collection tank. Like any other device, it is important to ensure that all its parts are always in good condition.

As in all other appliances that operate with an internal temperature system, the dryer also has a part that regulates the heat: it is the thermostat. In fact, it cuts the supply to the resistances when the temperature is too high.

With time and use, the device sometimes encounters problems at this level. Before considering replacing it, it is important to test it if you notice that:

• your dryer is no longer heating,
• your dryer is not drying enough,
• the desired temperature is not the right one,
• the device does not start,
• the button does not cause any reaction
• your appliance does not start a drying programme.

Since the operation is simple, you can do it by yourself.

The thermostat is located at the center and rear of the dryer. Depending on the brands, to access it you must remove the upper and rear panel, or the rear panel only.

The thermostat in a dryer is a crucial component that regulates the temperature inside the appliance. If the thermostat is faulty or malfunctioning, it can cause issues with the dryer’s heating, leading to ineffective drying or overheating problems. Testing and changing the thermostat is an important maintenance task that can help restore proper functionality to your dryer. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of testing and changing the thermostat of a dryer.

Please Note: Before starting any repair work on your dryer, prioritize safety. Ensure the dryer is disconnected from the power supply by either unplugging it from the electrical outlet or switching off the circuit breaker dedicated to the dryer.

Step 1: Identify the Thermostat

Before beginning the testing process, identify the location of the thermostat in your dryer. The thermostat is typically located on the dryer’s heating element housing or near the exhaust duct. Refer to the dryer’s user manual or consult the manufacturer’s website for the specific location of the thermostat in your dryer model.

Step 2: Access the Thermostat

To access the thermostat, you will need to open the dryer’s cabinet. The specific steps to access the thermostat may vary depending on your dryer model. Typically, you will need to:

1. Remove any screws or clips securing the dryer’s top panel to the cabinet. Slide a putty knife or similar tool between the top and front panels to release any hidden clips.
2. Lift the top panel and prop it up securely.
3. Locate and remove the screws or clips securing the front panel to the sides of the cabinet.
4. Carefully tilt the front panel forward and disconnect any wires or cables attached to the door switch.
5. Set the front panel aside.
6. Now, you will have access to the dryer’s heating element housing or exhaust duct where the thermostat is located.

Step 3: Test the Thermostat

To test the thermostat, you will need a multimeter, which is a device used to measure electrical resistance. Follow these steps to test the thermostat:

1. Set the multimeter to the “Ohms” or “Resistance” setting.
2. Disconnect the wires attached to the thermostat terminals.
3. Touch one multimeter probe to one terminal of the thermostat and the other probe to the remaining terminal.
4. The multimeter should display a reading of zero or near-zero ohms if the thermostat is functioning correctly and closed. If the reading is infinity or significantly high, the thermostat is likely faulty and needs replacement.

Step 4: Change the Thermostat

If the test results indicate that the thermostat is faulty, it’s time to replace it with a new one. Follow these steps to change the thermostat:

1. Remove any screws or clips securing the faulty thermostat in place.
2. Gently pull the old thermostat away from the heating element housing or exhaust duct.
3. Position the new thermostat in place and secure it with the screws or clips.
4. Reconnect the wires to the appropriate terminals of the new thermostat.

Step 5: Reassemble the Dryer

With the new thermostat installed, it’s time to reassemble the dryer.

1. Replace the dryer’s front panel and secure it with the screws or clips you removed earlier.
2. Reconnect any wires or cables attached to the door switch.
3. Lower the top panel back into position and secure it with the screws or clips.

Step 6: Test the Dryer

Before pushing the dryer back into its designated spot, perform a test to ensure the new thermostat is functioning correctly. Turn on the dryer and observe if it heats up to the appropriate temperature during the drying cycle.

Step 7: Final Adjustments

If you encounter any issues during the test, double-check the installation of the new thermostat. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the thermostat is properly installed and regulating the dryer’s temperature effectively.

Conclusion

Testing and changing the thermostat of a dryer is an essential maintenance task that can help restore proper heating and efficient drying performance. By following this step-by-step guide and prioritizing safety, you can successfully test the thermostat for faults and replace it with a new one if necessary. However, if you encounter any difficulties during the process or have concerns about handling the repair, it’s always best to seek assistance from a professional dryer technician. With the new thermostat properly installed, your dryer should operate efficiently, providing you with effective and reliable drying results.