August 01, 2014

How to replace a thermal fuse in an electric dryer

This step-by-step dryer repair guide shows how to replace the thermal fuse for an electric dryer. The thermal fuse in a dryer is a safety component that trips if the air flowing through the drum overheats. A blocked exhaust vent is the most common reason the air overheats. When the thermal fuse blows in an electric dryer, the display lights still work but the drive motor won't run. You can't reset the thermal fuse; if it's blown, replace it with the manufacturer-approved dryer part.

Find the dryer thermal fuse location in a common dryer by watching the repair procedure in the video below. Complete the thermal fuse replacement yourself and get your dryer going again.

These steps work for replacing the electric dryer thermal fuse for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Roper, Crosley and Estate models with a lint screen housing located in the top dryer panel.

We also have instructions for thermal fuse replacement in a gas dryer.

Quick links

Video

Instructions

Tools required

1/4-inch nut driver

Slot screwdriver

Vacuum cleaner or shop vac

Duct cleaning brush

Work gloves

Repair difficulty

Time required

15 minutes or less

Replacing a thermal fuse in an electric dryer

This video explains how to replace the thermal fuse in an electric dryer.

Instructions

01.
Shut off the power
Unplug the dryer to disconnect electrical power.
02.
Remove the back panel
Move the dryer forward and use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws from the back panel. Remove the back panel from the dryer and set it aside.
Tip: While you have the back of the cabinet open, vacuum lint and dust from the cabinet.
PHOTO: Remove the back panel screws.
PHOTO: Remove the back panel from the dryer.
03.
Remove the fuse
Pull the wires off of the thermal fuse. Remove the mounting screw using a 1/4" nut driver. Pull the fuse off of the blower housing.
PHOTO: Remove the wires from the thermal fuse.
PHOTO: Remove the thermal fuse mounting screw.
04.
Install the new thermal fuse
Position the new fuse and secure it with the screw. Push the wires onto the connection spades on top of the new thermal fuse. It doesn’t matter which wire goes into which terminal on the thermal fuse.
05.
Reattach the back panel
Position the back panel on the back of the dryer. Line up the mounting screw holes. Insert the mounting screws and tighten them firmly.
06.
Plug in the dryer
Plug the dryer into the wall outlet to restore electrical power.
07.
Clean the exhaust vent
To prevent the thermal fuse from blowing again soon, remove the flexible vent in the back of the dryer and clean the inside of the flexible vent hose. Clean the air duct going to the outside of your home with a duct cleaning brush. Vacuum the area to clean up dust.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.