August 01, 2014

How to replace a thermal fuse in a gas dryer

How to replace a thermal fuse in a gas dryer

This step-by-step dryer repair guide shows how to replace a gas dryer thermal fuse. The thermal fuse is a safety device that trips if the air flowing through the dryer begins to overheat. A blocked exhaust vent is the most common reason the air overheats. When a gas dryer thermal fuse blows, the drive motor runs but the burner won't ignite. You can't reset the thermal fuse; if it's blown, replace it with the manufacturer-approved dryer part.

These steps work for replacing the thermal fuse on Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Roper, Crosley and Estate gas dryers with a lint screen housing located in the top cabinet panel.

We also have instructions for replacing the thermal fuse in an electric dryer.

Quick links
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
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Replacing a thermal fuse in a gas dryer

This video explains how to replace the thermal fuse in a gas dryer.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the power and gas supply

    Unplug the dryer to disconnect electrical power. Shut off the gas supply to the dryer.

  2. 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 screws.

    PHOTO: Remove the back panel from the dryer.

    PHOTO: Remove the back panel from the dryer.

  3. 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 wires from the thermal fuse.

    PHOTO: Remove the thermal fuse mounting screw.

    PHOTO: Remove the thermal fuse mounting screw.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 06.

    Restore power and the gas supply

    Plug the dryer into the wall outlet. Turn on the gas supply to the dryer.

  7. 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.

Most common symptoms to help you fix your dryers

Choose a symptom to see related dryer repairs.

Main causes: bad drum support roller, damaged idler pulley, broken blower fan blade, worn drum glide bearing, bad drive …

Main causes: bad gas valve coils, broken heating element, tripped safety thermostat or fuse, bad operating thermostat, c…

Main causes: damaged door strike, worn door catch…

Main causes: bad timer or electronic control board, door switch failure…

Main causes: lack of electrical power, bad power cord, wiring failure, bad control board, blown thermal fuse, bad door s…

Main causes: clogged exhaust vent, bad motor relay, loose dryer door catch, bad door switch, control system failure, fau…

Main causes: clogged exhaust system, heating system failure, deposits on moisture sensor, control system failure…

Main causes: door switch failure, lack of power, broken belt, blown thermal fuse, bad drive motor, control system failur…

Most common repair guides to help fix your dryers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your dryer.

How to replace a dryer drum support roller

How to replace a dryer drum support roller

If your dryer thumps or squeals, replace the drum support roller to restore quiet to your home.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 90 minutes or less
How to replace a dryer thermistor

How to replace a dryer thermistor

The thermistor senses the air temperature in the dryer. If your dryer overheats or doesn't heat at all, the thermistor …

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace a dryer door switch

How to replace a dryer door switch

The dryer won't start if the door switch isn't working correctly. You can install a replacement dryer door switch in les…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Effective articles & videos to help repair your dryers

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your dryer.

How to use your clothes dryer efficiently

How to use your clothes dryer efficiently

Get expert tips on using your dryer efficiently to save energy.…

How to repair broken or damaged wires video

How to repair broken or damaged wires video

Learn how to repair broken, frayed or damaged wires in your appliances.…

How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

How to use a multimeter to test electrical parts video

Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working…