How to Fix a Whirlpool Dryer Ignitor

Accessing the Ignitor

• 1

  Disconnect your whirlpool dryer’s power plug from the receptacle. Ensure the prongs are away from damage or water.

• 2

  Shut off the gas supply valve from your house to the dryer. The valve control is typically right where the flexible gas line connects to the house. Once the gas is shut off, use your wrench to disconnect the gas line from the dryer.

• 3

  Place your flathead screwdriver or putty knife in between the access panel and front panel of your dryer. Push in until you feel a retainer clip, and then press upwards. You should hear a click or a pop. There should be two retainer clips.

Removing the Ignitor

• 4

  Locate the burner can, which should be near the gas supply line in your dryer. Disconnect the flame sensor wiring harness from the burner can. You can do this by hand by pulling the harness from the connector.

• 5

  Disconnect the burner assembly bracket by removing the mounting screws with your socket set. Release the burner assembly tabs and pull the unit out of the dryer.

• 6

  Locate the ignitor wire connector and disconnect it from the burner assembly. Also disconnect any hardware attaching it to the assembly. You may need your Phillips screwdriver to do this.

• 7

  Inspect the ignitor for any obvious damage to the filament. If you don’t see any cracks, use your multimeter to check for resistance in the ignitor’s wire assembly. Set the meter to measure ohms at X1. Touch one probe to each terminal, and look for a reading between 50 and 400 ohms. Any other readings will indicate that your ignitor needs to be replaced.