August 01, 2014

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

Video

Instructions

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

Replacing a thermal fuse in a gas dryer

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

Instructions

01.
Shut off the power and gas supply
Unplug the dryer to disconnect electrical power. Shut off the gas supply to the dryer.
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 from the dryer.
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 thermal fuse mounting screw.
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.
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.
06.
Restore power and the gas supply
Plug the dryer into the wall outlet. Turn on the gas supply to the dryer.
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.