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My Dryer is Overheating

If your dryer is running too hot or overheating, the most likely cause is a failing heating element or heating element assembly that is partially shorted and producing heat continuously; you can test the element with a multimeter for continuity to the case. A faulty timer can allow continuous voltage to the heater, but that is rare, so check more common parts first. Restricted airflow from a clogged vent or lint build up will raise cabinet temperature and can create a burning smell, so inspect and clean the dryer venting before swapping parts. A failing drive motor can overheat and force the dryer to shut down until it cools, and a bad thermistor can send incorrect temperature readings to the control and let the dryer run too hot. Start by testing the heating element and confirming good vent flow, then move on to the motor and thermistor if needed. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part that fits your dryer.

01 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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.
Highly Likely

06 - 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.
Highly Likely

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dryer overheating and shutting off?
Can a faulty timer cause a dryer to run too hot?
How do I tell if the heating element or heating element assembly is shorted?
My dryer starts, runs for a bit, then stops until it cools down—what's failing?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement?