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Quick and easy: how to illuminate your whirlpool gas dryer pilot light in 5 minutes

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to light gas dryer pilot light Whirlpool, ensuring your dryer is back in action in no time.
  • This will allow the thermocouple to heat up and generate a signal to the gas valve, keeping the pilot light burning.
  • Reconnect the dryer to the electrical outlet and turn on the gas supply to the dryer.

Is your Whirlpool gas dryer refusing to ignite, leaving you with a pile of wet laundry? Fear not! Lighting the pilot light is a straightforward process that you can easily accomplish with a few simple steps. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to light gas dryer pilot light Whirlpool, ensuring your dryer is back in action in no time.

Safety First: Essential Precautions

Before attempting to light the pilot light, it’s crucial to prioritize safety:

  • Ensure the gas supply to the dryer is turned off.
  • Disconnect the dryer from any electrical outlet.
  • Allow the dryer to cool down completely if it has been recently used.

Locate the Pilot Light: Where to Look

The pilot light is typically located behind a small panel on the bottom front of the dryer. Use a screwdriver to remove the panel and expose the pilot light assembly.

Step 1: Turn on the Gas Supply

Locate the gas valve on the dryer’s gas line. Slowly turn the valve to the “on” position, allowing gas to flow into the dryer.

Step 2: Find the Igniter Button

Next, identify the igniter button on the pilot light assembly. This button is usually red or black and labeled “Igniter.”

Step 3: Press and Hold the Igniter Button

Press and hold the igniter button for approximately 30 seconds. During this time, gas will flow into the pilot light and ignite. If the pilot light doesn‘t ignite within 30 seconds, repeat the process.

Step 4: Keep the Button Depressed

Once the pilot light ignites, keep the igniter button depressed for an additional 60 seconds. This will allow the thermocouple to heat up and generate a signal to the gas valve, keeping the pilot light burning.

Step 5: Release the Button and Check

After 60 seconds, slowly release the igniter button. The pilot light should remain lit. If it goes out, repeat steps 2-5.

Step 6: Replace the Panel

Once the pilot light is burning steadily, replace the panel and secure it with the screwdriver.

Step 7: Turn on the Dryer

Reconnect the dryer to the electrical outlet and turn on the gas supply to the dryer. Start a drying cycle to ensure the pilot light remains lit and the dryer is functioning properly.

Troubleshooting: What to Do if the Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit

If the pilot light repeatedly fails to stay lit, there may be an underlying issue:

  • Dirty Thermocouple: Clean the thermocouple with fine-grit sandpaper or a wire brush.
  • Faulty Igniter: Replace the igniter if it’s damaged or malfunctioning.
  • Clogged Gas Line: Contact a qualified technician to inspect and clean the gas line.

Takeaways: Keep Your Dryer Running Smoothly

By following these steps, you can successfully light the pilot light on your Whirlpool gas dryer, ensuring your laundry is always dry and ready to wear. Remember to prioritize safety, troubleshoot any issues promptly, and enjoy the convenience of your fully functioning dryer.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Why won’t my Whirlpool gas dryer ignite?

A: The pilot light may be out, the igniter may be faulty, or there may be a problem with the gas supply.

Q: How often should I clean the pilot light assembly?

A: It’s recommended to clean the pilot light assembly at least once a year to prevent buildup and ensure proper ignition.

Q: Can I use a lighter to light the pilot light?

A: No, it’s not recommended to use a lighter to light the pilot light. Use the igniter button provided on the dryer.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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