How to Fix a Whirpool Gas Dryer That Ignites But Gas Shuts Off After Three Minutes

Whirlpool gas dryers are equipped with a safety feature to shut down the appliance if it gets too hot. The feature uses a part known as a thermal fuse, which is a heat-sensitive switch. At a preset temperature, the thermal fuse signals the gas valve to close, shutting down the dryer. Over time, the fuse begins to wear out and may start malfunctioning before it fails completely. The dryer may light normally and run for several minutes before shutting down. When it cools, the dryer will work again for a few minutes. Replace the thermal fuse to fix this problem.

Screwdriver set
Replacement thermal fuse

Instructions

- 1
  Turn the handle on the gas valve behind the Whirlpool 90 degrees to the right to shut off the gas. Unplug the dryer's power cord from the wall. Although the Whirlpool uses gas to dry clothes, the electric cord operates the ignitor and motor.
- 2
  Take out the screws holding the back plate on the Whirlpool using the screwdriver. Pull off and set aside the plate. The gas burner is at the bottom, in the right-hand corner. The thermal fuse is connected to the top of the burner.
- 3
  Slip off the two wires on the thermal fuse contacts. Pull the crimped metal connectors on the wire ends from the thermal fuse. Do not tug on the actual wiring.
- 4
  Remove the two screws holding the thermal fuse and its mounting plate on the burner. Take out the old part.
- 5
  Place the new part in position on the burner and secure it with the two screws.
- 6
  Attach the two wires to the fuse contacts.
- 7
  Fasten the back plate onto the Whirlpool with the screws and screwdriver.
- 8
  Plug in the power cord and turn the handle in the gas valve to its original position.

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