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Whirlpool Dryer overheating

If your Whirlpool dryer is running too hot or overheating, the most likely culprit is a failing heating element that has partially shorted and is supplying heat continuously. Start by testing the element for continuity to the case with a multimeter; a shorted element must be replaced. Less commonly, a faulty timer can send continuous voltage to the heating circuit, though that is rare and should be checked after you eliminate the usual suspects. Restricted airflow from a clogged vent or lint trap will also make the cabinet temperature climb, so inspect and clean the venting system and outside vent hood. A failing drive motor can overheat the machine and cause it to stop until it cools, and a bad thermistor can send incorrect temperature readings to the control board, causing overheating. Use straightforward continuity checks on the thermistor and follow wiring diagrams if you test the timer. Enter your dryer model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement heating element, thermistor, timer, motor, or vent parts that fit your machine.

01 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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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03 - Whirlpool 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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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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dryer overheating?
My dryer is overheating and shuts off—what parts should I check?
How do I test the heating element if my dryer is running too hot?
Why does my dryer start then stop after a few seconds?
How do I find the right replacement part on RepairClinic.com for my dryer?

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