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Dryer won't stop

If your dryer won't stop or keeps running after a cycle, start with the venting: clogged or restricted airflow from a blocked vent or lint-choked duct is the most common cause, raising cabinet temperature and preventing the dryer from sensing cycle completion. Next, check the control settings — the anti-wrinkle or tumble option will periodically tumble clothes after a cycle and can make it seem like the dryer won’t stop. Inspect the blower wheel for lint, small garments, or a worn sleeve that lets the wheel wobble on the motor shaft and reduces airflow, which lengthens runs. Also confirm incoming power is solid: a loose plug or a tripped or partially tripped breaker can cause intermittent or odd running behavior. If venting is clear, the dryer heats normally, and the problem persists, a faulty control board may be sending voltage incorrectly and keeping the unit running. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement parts and step-by-step repair guidance for your dryer.

01 - 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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02 - Anti-wrinkle cycle option selected

Most dryer models have an anti-wrinkle cycle option that can be selected to reduce wrinkles. When selected the dryer drum will tumble the clothes every few minutes after the cycle is completed to help keep wrinkles from occurring. If this option was inadvertently selected the dryer will intermittently run until the clothes are removed.
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03 - Dryer Blower Wheel

The blower wheel draws air through the dryer and pushes the air out the vent. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. In addition, the blower wheel sleeve can wear out, allowing the blower wheel to wobble on the motor shaft. If the blower wheel is obstructed or defective, it may take too long to dry clothes. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower whee...l by hand. If the blower wheel wobbles as it turns, replace it.
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04 - Incoming Power Problem

Confirm a circuit breaker has not tripped and the power cord is plugged tightly into the wall receptacle. A loose plug can provide intermittent power to the dryer and cause it to spinning stop during the cycle.
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05 - Dryer Control Board

A dryer's control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component. You can also use a multimeter to test for voltage reaching the drive motor after reviewing the dryer's wiring diagram.
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Common

06 - Dryer Main Control Board

A dryer's main control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component.
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Common

07 - Dirty Moisture Sensor Bars

The control board uses the moisture sensor bars to sense the dampness of the clothes. Over time the sensor bars can become coated, expecially from dryer sheet residue. Try cleaning off the bars with warm soap and water. If the sensor bars are damaged they will need to be replaced.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my dryer stop running after the cycle ends?
How can a clogged vent or obstructed blower wheel make my dryer take too long to dry?
Can a bad control board cause the dryer to keep running, and how do I check it?
Why does my dryer keep tumbling every few minutes after the cycle finishes?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?

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