Testing a Replacement Maytag Dryer Ignitor

A non-functioning ignitor in a Maytag gas clothes dryer means that your clothes will not dry thoroughly, if at all. The ignitor is an electrical device that lights the gas burner of your dryer. Without a properly working ignitor, the gas will not ignite. An ignitor has a metal filament that glows red when electrical current is applied to it. Like an incandescent light bulb, the filament must have continuity through it to work. You may be able to visually inspect a filament for obvious defects, but testing for continuity is a more accurate test. If you plan on installing a used ignitor in your dryer to save money, test the unit before installation to avoid wasting your time.

Analog or digital multimeter

Instructions

- 1
  Observe the metal filament of the ignitor to see if it is cracked, burnt-looking or singed. Any of these conditions may indicate that the ignitor is burned out and may not be operational.
- 2
  Turn the switch on an analog or digital multimeter to the lowest ohms of resistance setting.
- 3
  Touch the two contacts of an analog meter together to calibrate it. Adjust the dial to read zero. Skip this step if you are using a digital multimeter.
- 4
  Touch one of the multimeter probes to one of the metal contacts located in the connector on the ignitor's wiring harness. Touch the other probe on the meter to the remaining contact in the connector. Ensure the probes are not touching each other. Do not touch the probes to the filament.
- 5
  Check the reading on the meter. A reading of between 50 and 400 ohms of resistance means that the filament has continuity and is most likely functional. A very low reading or no change in the dial or readout of the meter means that the filament has no continuity and the ignitor is faulty.

How to Remove Front Covers From Kenmore Washers & Dryers

How to Fix Your Whirlpool Dryer Cabrio When the Time Dry Doesn't Work or Light Up

Washer & Dryers