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Universal Dryer overheating

If your dryer is overheating or running too hot, the most common culprit is a partially shorted heating element or heating element assembly that keeps producing heat even when the dryer reaches temperature; use a multimeter to check each terminal for continuity to the case and replace the element if it is shorted. A faulty timer that allows continuous voltage to the heating circuit can cause overheating, but that is rare, so test more likely parts first. Restricted airflow from a clogged vent will raise cabinet temperature and can cause a burning smell, so clean the dryer vent and outside hood before replacing parts. A failing drive motor can overheat and shut the machine down until it cools, and a bad thermistor or temperature sensor can report incorrect temperatures to the control and let the dryer run too hot. Test components with a multimeter and follow safety steps. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement heating element, thermistor, motor, timer, or vent parts that fit your dryer.

01 - Universal Dryer Heating Element

The heating element warms the air before the air enters the dryer drum. If the element is partially shorted out, it may produce heat continuously, even if the dryer has reached the proper temperature. When this happens, the dryer gets too hot. To determine if the heating element is at fault, use a multimeter to test each terminal for continuity to the case. If the heating element has continuity to the case, it is shorted out. If the heating element is shorted out, replace it.
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02 - Universal Dryer Timer

A dryer that is overheating could be caused by a faulty timer allowing continuous voltage to be sent to the heating circuit. If the timer's heating contacts and the heating element are shorted, the heating element can heat when the timer is off. However, this is very rarely the case. Before replacing the timer, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, test the timer by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram. If the timer is defective, replace it.
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03 - Universal Dryer Heating Element Assembly

The heating element warms air as it passes over the element. If the element is partially shorted out, it may produce heat continuously, even if the dryer has reached the proper temperature. When this happens, the dryer gets too hot. To determine if the heating element is at fault, first use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. If the heating element does not have continuity, replace it. Next, test for continuity from each terminal to the case. If the heating element has continuity to the case, it is shorted out. If the heating element is shorted out, replace it.
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04 - Air Flow Problem

If the vent line is clogged or partially clogged, it will restrict the airflow through the dryer, substantially increasing the drying time and cabinet temperature and potentially causing a burning smell. To ensure proper dryer performance, you should clean your dryer's venting system at least once per year.
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05 - Universal Dryer Drive Motor

A dryer's drive motor will drive the drum belt to rotate the drum as well as spin a blower wheel to circulate the air through the drum during operation. If the dryer runs for a while and then stops, and won't start again until it cools down, it's likely the drive motor is malfunctioning and will need to be replaced.
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Highly Likely

06 - Universal Dryer Thermistor

A dryer thermistor monitors the dryer temperature and sends a resistance reading to the control board. If the thermistor is malfunctioning, it may fail to send the correct reading to the control board resulting in the dryer overheating. If you've determined there is good air flow coming out the home's outside vent hood and the dryer venting is free of obstructions, the thermistor is one of the components you can test for electrical continuity with a multimeter to see if it's functioning properly. While the thermistor should have continuity at room temperature, the ohm’s reading should go lower as the temperature on the sen...sor increases. If the thermistor has shorted or shows no continuity it should be replaced with a new one. Thermistors rarely get out of calibration.
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Highly Likely

07 - Universal Dryer Main Control Board

A dryer's main control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If a relay on the board has shorted, it may sent continuous voltage to the heating circuit causing the dryer to overheat. To help determine this, you can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component.
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Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dryer overheating or running too hot?
Can a faulty timer cause a dryer to overheat?
My dryer starts then stops and won’t start again until it cools down. What should I check?
Why does my dryer smell like burning when it runs hot?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?

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