Dryer won't turn off
Common reasons your dryer won't turn off
The most common reasons your dryer won't turn off are an open heating element, defective electronic control board or a failed thermistor.
30% of the time it's the
Heating Element
24% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board
20% of the time it's the
Thermistor
26% of the time it's the
Something else
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Common dryer repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dryer parts may fix your problem.
Heating Element Replacement
If your dryer runs continuously without turning off, it might be due to a faulty heating element. When the heating element is open or broken, it fails to generate heat, causing the dryer to run endlessly. If you notice that the dryer isn't heating up and the cycle persists for an extended period, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert inspect the appliance. The technician will examine the heating element and replace it if necessary.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If your dryer fails to shut off, it could be due to a malfunctioning control board. The electronic control board is responsible for monitoring a moisture sensor to determine when clothes are dry. If the dryer continues to operate despite the clothes being dry, it's possible that electronic components on the circuit board have malfunctioned. To address this issue, arrange for a Sears Home Services Technician to inspect the electronic control board in your home. If the control board is found to be defective, the technician will replace it accordingly.
Thermistor Replacement
A malfunctioning thermistor can prevent the dryer from shutting off. The thermistor acts as a temperature sensor, transmitting signals to the electronic control board to regulate the heat within the dryer. If the thermistor fails, it cannot accurately detect the temperature, resulting in inadequate heating and prolonged drying cycles. If your laundry loads take an unusually long time to dry, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect the dryer. If a defective thermistor is identified, the technician will replace it accordingly.
What to expect when you experience a dryer won't turn off issue
How do I fix a dryer that won't turn off?
Addressing most issues where the dryer fails to turn off typically requires replacing components like the heating element, electronic control board, or thermistor. Nevertheless, given the numerous potential causes, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the issue effectively. An accurate diagnosis is pivotal in determining the extent and cost of the necessary repair.
Sears Home Services solutions for a dryer that won't turn off
If your dryer won't shut off, it could stem from various reasons. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest scheduling diagnostic tests with a Sears Home Services professional. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing a wide range of dryer issues.
What to watch for with a dryer won't turn off diagnosis
Identifying issues in contemporary appliances without adequate expertise and training can pose challenges. Attempting repairs without employing appropriate diagnostic methods often leads to guesswork in replacing parts. Appliances, particularly those developed in the last decade, feature highly advanced technology, including intricate electronic components that are hard to assess. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on modern appliance models are progressively more complex.
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He was professional and polite. I didn't call back later that afternoon, although he replaced a thermostat the smart dry timer doesn't work as I was still having the same issue. The lady said she would email him and have him return. Never heard from anyone else.
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Repair Dryer Resources
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Glossary Terms
Natural gas is a fossil fuel used primarily for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It's a hydrocarbon gas mixture consisting mainly of methane, but it also contains smaller amounts of other hydrocarbons and sometimes sulfur compounds.
A gas dryer is a laundry appliance that uses natural gas or propane to generate heat to dry clothes.
A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
A furnace is a major appliance that heats air distributed throughout a home or building via a ductwork system.
Common dryer symptoms to look out for
- Dryer won't start cycle
- Dryer will not heat up
- Dryer vibrates
- Dryer stopped working
- Dryer not working
- Dryer not turning on
- Dryer not starting
- Dryer not spinning
- Dryer not heating
- Dryer not drying clothes properly
- Dryer not drying
- Dryer not draining
- Dryer not cooling down
- Dryer noisy
- Dryer no sound
- Dryer no power
- Dryer no heat
- Dryer makes noise when tumbling
- Dryer light not working
- Dryer leaking water
- Dryer leaking from bottom
- Dryer leaking
- Dryer isn't heating
- Dryer gets hot but takes long time to dry
- Dryer drum roller replacement
- Dryer door not closing
- Dryer display not working
- Dryer burning smell