A Whirlpool clothes dryer can stop heating and drying properly due to various reasons. Some of the common causes include:
Heating Element Failure: The heating element is responsible for generating the heat needed to dry the clothes. Over time, the heating element can burn out or become faulty, resulting in the dryer not producing enough heat or no heat at all.
Thermal Fuse: The thermal fuse is a safety component that protects the dryer from overheating. If the temperature inside the dryer gets too high, the thermal fuse will blow and cut off the power to the heating element. This can happen due to a clogged vent, which causes the dryer to overheat.
Igniter (Gas Dryers): If you have a gas dryer, it uses an igniter to ignite the gas and produce heat. If the igniter is defective, the gas won't ignite, and the dryer won't heat up.
Gas Valve Solenoids (Gas Dryers): In gas dryers, the gas valve solenoids are responsible for controlling the flow of gas to the burner. If any of the solenoids are faulty, the gas burner won't ignite, and the dryer won't heat.
Thermostat Issues: Dryers have multiple thermostats that regulate the temperature inside the drum. If any of these thermostats fail, the dryer may not heat properly or may not heat at all.
Blocked Vent or Duct: A clogged or restricted vent or duct system can obstruct the airflow, causing the dryer to overheat or not dry clothes efficiently.
Faulty Timer or Control Board: Issues with the timer or electronic control board can prevent the dryer from going through the proper heating cycles, leading to drying problems.
Defective Sensor Bars (Moisture Sensors): Many modern dryers have moisture sensors that detect the moisture level in the clothes and adjust the drying time accordingly. If the sensor bars are dirty or defective, the dryer may not shut off properly or over-dry the clothes.
Drum Roller or Belt Issues: If the drum roller or belt is worn out or damaged, it can lead to poor drum rotation, causing uneven drying and heating problems.
Power Supply Issues: Sometimes, a faulty power outlet or improper electrical connection can result in the dryer not getting adequate power, leading to insufficient heating.
To identify the specific cause of the issue, it is best to follow these steps:
- Clean the lint trap and ensure the dryer vent and duct are clear of lint and debris.
- Check for error codes or indicator lights on the dryer's display.
- Refer to the dryer's user manual for troubleshooting tips and potential solutions.
- If the problem persists, consider seeking assistance from a qualified appliance repair technician who can diagnose and fix the issue safely.