Diy fix: how to test a ge dryer cycling thermostat and save money

Are you facing a frustrating situation where your GE dryer is not cycling properly, leaving your clothes damp or even wet? The culprit could be a faulty cycling thermostat. Before calling a repair technician, consider following these step-by-step instructions on how to test a GE dryer cycling thermostat.

What is a Cycling Thermostat?

A cycling thermostat is a critical component in your GE dryer that monitors the temperature inside the drum and regulates the heating element accordingly. When the temperature reaches a certain set point, the thermostat opens the circuit, stopping the heating element. As the temperature drops, the thermostat closes the circuit, allowing the heating element to turn back on and continue heating.

Symptoms of a Faulty Cycling Thermostat

• Clothes not drying properly
• Dryer overheating
• Dryer cycling too frequently or not at all
• Unusual noises coming from the dryer

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

• Multimeter
• Screwdriver
• Wire stripper (optional)
• Electrical tape (optional)

Safety Precautions

Before starting any electrical work, always ensure the dryer is unplugged from the power outlet. Wear safety glasses and gloves for protection.

Step-by-Step Testing Instructions

1. Remove the Back Panel

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws holding the back panel of the dryer in place. Carefully lift the panel off and set it aside.

2. Locate the Cycling Thermostat

The cycling thermostat is usually located near the heating element. It will have two wires connected to it.

3. Disconnect the Wires

Gently pull the wires off the terminals of the cycling thermostat. If the wires are crimped on, you may need to use a wire stripper to cut them off.

4. Set Multimeter to Ohmmeter Mode

Configure your multimeter to the ohmmeter mode, which measures electrical resistance.

5. Test the Thermostat

Place one probe of the multimeter on each terminal of the cycling thermostat. The display should show a reading of approximately 0 ohms.

6. Heat the Thermostat

Using a heat gun or a hair dryer, gently heat the cycling thermostat. As the temperature rises, the resistance should gradually increase.

7. Cool the Thermostat

Once the resistance has reached its maximum value, let the cycling thermostat cool down. The resistance should gradually decrease back to 0 ohms.

8. Interpret the Results

• If the resistance starts at 0 ohms and increases with heat, then decreases with cooling: The cycling thermostat is working correctly.
• If the resistance does not change or reads infinity: The cycling thermostat is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the cycling thermostat is faulty, you can order a replacement part from GE or a reputable appliance parts supplier.
• When replacing the cycling thermostat, ensure the wires are connected securely to the terminals.
• If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Recommendations: Troubleshooting Your GE Dryer

By following these comprehensive testing instructions, you can effectively troubleshoot and repair a faulty cycling thermostat in your GE dryer. Remember, proper maintenance and regular testing can help prevent future problems and ensure your dryer operates efficiently for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What causes a GE dryer cycling thermostat to fail?
A: Cycling thermostats can fail due to wear and tear, overheating, or electrical surges.

Q: How often should I test my GE dryer cycling thermostat?
A: It is recommended to test the cycling thermostat every few years or if you notice any issues with the dryer’s performance.

Q: Can I test a GE dryer cycling thermostat without removing it?
A: While it is possible to test a cycling thermostat without removing it, it is not as accurate and may not detect all potential issues.