Whirlpool dryer conundrum: can you bypass a blown thermal fuse?

A blown thermal fuse is a common issue that can prevent your Whirlpool dryer from operating. This fuse is designed to protect the dryer from overheating, but when it blows, it can leave you with a non-functioning appliance. In this blog post, we will explore the question: “Will a Whirlpool dryer run with a blown thermal fuse?” We will also provide troubleshooting tips and step-by-step instructions on how to replace a thermal fuse in your Whirlpool dryer.

What is a Thermal Fuse?

A thermal fuse is a safety device that is designed to prevent electrical fires in the event of overheating. In a Whirlpool dryer, the thermal fuse is located in the dryer’s exhaust duct. When the dryer overheats, the thermal fuse will blow, cutting off power to the dryer and preventing it from operating.

Will a Whirlpool Dryer Run with a Blown Thermal Fuse?

No, a Whirlpool dryer will not run with a blown thermal fuse. When the thermal fuse blows, it cuts off power to the dryer, preventing it from starting or continuing to run. This is a safety feature that is designed to protect the dryer from overheating and causing a fire.

Troubleshooting a Blown Thermal Fuse

If you suspect that your Whirlpool dryer‘s thermal fuse has blown, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take:

• Check the dryer’s exhaust duct. Make sure that the exhaust duct is clear of any lint or debris. A clogged exhaust duct can cause the dryer to overheat and blow the thermal fuse.
• Reset the dryer’s circuit breaker. If the dryer’s circuit breaker has tripped, reset it and try to start the dryer again.
• Unplug the dryer and inspect the thermal fuse. The thermal fuse is located in the dryer’s exhaust duct. Unplug the dryer and remove the exhaust duct to access the thermal fuse. Inspect the thermal fuse for any signs of damage or burning.

How to Replace a Thermal Fuse in a Whirlpool Dryer

If you have determined that your Whirlpool dryer‘s thermal fuse has blown, you will need to replace it. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to do so:

1. Unplug the dryer and disconnect the power cord.
2. Remove the exhaust duct.
3. Locate the thermal fuse. The thermal fuse is located in the dryer’s exhaust duct, near the heating element.
4. Disconnect the wires from the thermal fuse. Use a pair of pliers to disconnect the wires from the thermal fuse.
5. Remove the thermal fuse. Use a screwdriver to remove the thermal fuse from the dryer.
6. Install the new thermal fuse. Insert the new thermal fuse into the dryer and tighten it with a screwdriver.
7. Reconnect the wires to the thermal fuse. Use a pair of pliers to reconnect the wires to the thermal fuse.
8. Reinstall the exhaust duct.
9. Plug in the dryer and reconnect the power cord.

Other Possible Causes of a Non-Running Whirlpool Dryer

If you have replaced the thermal fuse and your Whirlpool dryer is still not running, there may be another issue that is causing the problem. Here are some other possible causes:

• Faulty heating element
• Bad motor
• Broken belt
• Control board failure

If you are not comfortable troubleshooting and repairing your Whirlpool dryer yourself, you can contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

The Bottom Line

A blown thermal fuse is a common issue that can prevent your Whirlpool dryer from operating. If you suspect that your dryer’s thermal fuse has blown, you can troubleshoot the problem by checking the exhaust duct, resetting the circuit breaker, and inspecting the thermal fuse. If you determine that the thermal fuse has blown, you can replace it by following the step-by-step instructions provided in this blog post. If you are not comfortable troubleshooting and repairing your dryer yourself, you can contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bypass the thermal fuse in my Whirlpool dryer?

A: No, you should not bypass the thermal fuse in your Whirlpool dryer. The thermal fuse is a safety device that is designed to prevent electrical fires in the event of overheating. Bypassing the thermal fuse could put your dryer at risk of overheating and causing a fire.

Q: How long does it take to replace a thermal fuse in a Whirlpool dryer?

A: Replacing a thermal fuse in a Whirlpool dryer is a relatively simple repair that should take no more than 30 minutes to complete.

Q: How much does it cost to replace a thermal fuse in a Whirlpool dryer?

A: The cost to replace 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, you can expect to pay between $10 and $30 for a new thermal fuse.