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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.
Why will my dryer not turn off?
Dryer with a mechanical timer
When your dryer uses a mechanical timer and doesn't stop when the dial reaches the off position, then a failed contact in the timer is likely causing the dryer to continue running and you'll probably need to replace the timer.
You should be able to stop the dryer by opening the dryer door unless the dryer door switch is also bad.
Here’s a safe DIY video that shows how to replace a dryer timer:
If you’re not completely confident that you can complete this repair on your own, schedule dryer repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to replace the dryer timer.
Dryer with an electronic control board
If your dryer uses an electronic control, a stuck motor relay on the electronic control board can cause the dryer to run constantly with the dryer door closed. If the dryer stops only when you open the door, you'll likely need to replace the electronic control board.
Here’s a safe DIY video that shows how to replace a dryer electronic control board:
Have a service technician replace the control board if you’re not completely confident that you can safely replace the control board on your own.
If the dryer won't turn off when you open the dryer door, the dryer door switch likely failed. Replace the door switch if it doesn't accurately detect the door being open or closed.
Here’s a safe DIY video that shows how replace the dryer door switch:
These tips can help you figure out what's wrong when your dryer won’t shut off.
If you need help finding and fixing the cause of this dryer problem, trust Sears Home Services to visit your home and resolve the issue for you.
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.
A dryer that never ends its cycle can ruin delicate fabrics and spike utility bills. Timers or sensors typically cause infinite tumbling. Power down and call dryer fix near me. Correct cycle stops protect your clothes, your budget, and your dryer’s longevity.
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Excellent service from Daniel
Daniel provided excellent service and was very quick to perform the repair. I have nothing good to say about the warranty program and the LACK of customer service and the inability to contact a human being to talk.
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Excellent technician Very thorough and detail oriented Would be happy to have him work on appliances again He managed to find our ranch headquarters in the middle of the desert
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Dryer service
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.
Terry F, Oklahoma City, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
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Glossary Terms
A dryer drum is the main interior component of a clothes dryer where clothes are placed to be dried. It rotates during the drying cycle, allowing heated air to circulate through the clothes.
A dryer filter, commonly known as a lint filter, is a component of a clothes dryer that captures lint and other debris from clothes during the drying process, preventing them from clogging the dryer vent.
A dryer pedestal is a platform that elevates a dryer off the ground, making it easier to load and unload laundry while also providing additional storage space in some models.
A dryer rack is an accessory for clothes dryers that provides a stationary platform to dry items without tumbling, ideal for delicate or bulky items, or shoes that might be damaged by the usual drying cycle.