There are several potential reasons why an electric clothes dryer might suddenly stop mid-cycle and refuse to turn on again until it has been unplugged for several minutes. Some common causes include:
Overheating or Thermal Protection: Dryers have thermal fuses or thermostats that monitor the temperature inside the appliance. If the temperature rises too high, it can trigger a safety feature that shuts off the dryer to prevent overheating and potential fires. Once the appliance cools down, it may allow you to restart it.
Motor Overload: The dryer's motor can sometimes overheat or overload due to a malfunction or excessive load (e.g., too many clothes). A built-in overload protection feature may cut power to the motor to prevent damage. Waiting for some time can reset the overload protection.
Power Supply Issues: Sometimes, electrical issues like voltage fluctuations, surges, or tripped circuit breakers can disrupt the normal operation of the dryer. Unplugging the appliance and waiting for a while can give the electrical system time to stabilize before attempting to restart it.
Door Switch Problems: The door switch is a safety feature that prevents the dryer from starting if the door is not properly closed. If there's a fault with the door switch or its mechanism, it may intermittently stop the dryer mid-cycle and not allow it to restart until the issue is resolved.
Control Board Malfunction: A faulty control board or electronic control panel can cause the dryer to behave erratically or stop working. Unplugging the dryer for a few minutes might reset the control board temporarily.
Faulty Thermal Sensor (Thermistor): The thermistor monitors the temperature inside the dryer and can cause it to shut off if it detects abnormal temperatures. A faulty thermistor might trigger these shutdowns even when there's no actual overheating.
Other Electrical or Mechanical Issues: Various other electrical or mechanical problems, such as loose connections, damaged power cords, or worn-out components, could lead to the dryer stopping unexpectedly.
If your dryer is experiencing these issues, it's essential to address the problem promptly and safely. Consider the following steps:
Check the lint trap and vents to ensure they are clean and not obstructed.
Verify that the power cord and connections are secure and not damaged.
If the problem persists, consider contacting a qualified appliance technician to diagnose and repair the dryer.
Remember, working with electrical appliances can be dangerous, so if you're unsure about any repairs, it's best to seek professional assistance.