Yes, it is possible for a dryer to stop and open by itself if there is an overload of clothes inside. Many modern dryers are equipped with safety features, such as an overload sensor or thermal fuse, that are designed to protect the machine from overheating or damage due to excessive loads.
Here's how it typically works:
Overload sensor: Some dryers have an overload sensor that detects when the drum is overloaded with too many clothes. When the sensor senses the excessive load, it may automatically stop the dryer to prevent strain on the motor and other components.
Thermal fuse: In addition to the overload sensor, dryers also have a thermal fuse as a safety measure. If the dryer overheats due to an excessive load or other issues, the thermal fuse will trip, cutting off power to the heating element and stopping the dryer from functioning. This prevents potential fires or damage caused by overheating.
Door safety switch: Dryers usually have a door safety switch that prevents the door from opening while the dryer is in operation. If the overload or overheating protection mechanisms kick in, the dryer will stop, and the door will unlock, allowing you to access the clothes once it's safe.
If you encounter this issue, the first step is to remove some of the clothes to reduce the load and allow the dryer to operate safely. Make sure you're not overloading the dryer in the future to avoid similar problems.
However, if your dryer is consistently stopping and opening by itself even with a reasonable load, there might be an issue with the overload sensor, thermal fuse, or other components. In such cases, it's advisable to have the dryer inspected and repaired by a professional appliance technician to ensure proper functioning and safety.