The cost to replace a thermal fuse on a dryer is $75 to $150 on average. The cost of a dryer thermal fuse is $5 to $10 for the part or up to $60 for OEM parts. This safety device stops the motor when the dryer overheats. No one can repair or reset a thermal fuse.
It's pretty much always cheaper to repair than replace, especially if you are handy enough.
Like cars, the most expensive part of a dryer is any electrical component, specifically the control board. For newer dryers, this single part, excluding the labor required to replace it, can easily be worth more than half the price of a new unit.
Most clothes dryers have two key elements: a motor and a heater. The heating element is broken if your dryer runs but won't heat up to dry your clothes. This could be an electrical issue with the circuit breaker or a mechanical issue with the appliance itself.
Thermal fuse for dryer cost
The cost to replace a thermal fuse on a dryer is $75 to $150 on average. The cost of a dryer thermal fuse is $5 to $10 for the part or up to $60 for OEM parts. This safety device stops the motor when the dryer overheats. No one can repair or reset a thermal fuse.
A blown fuse will make your dryer stop working altogether. If your dryer suddenly stops working, the fuse is one of the first things to check.
When your dryer overheats, it can cause the thermal fuse to blow as a safety measure to prevent any further damage or potential fire hazards. This can happen if your dryer is overloaded, if the vent is clogged, or if the heating element is faulty.
As with other appliances, the 50% Rule applies: if your appliance is over 50% of its expected lifespan of 10 to 13 years, and it costs more than 50% of its replacement cost to repair it, it may be time to think about replacement.
A dryer typically lasts about 12-13 years; however, some dryer manufacturers boast up to a 25-year lifespan. It's important to remember, though, that clothes dryer life expectancy goes hand in hand with how often the dryer is used and how well you maintain the appliance.
Dryer Shuts Off Quickly
Common issues include a broken motor relay, a malfunctioning push-to-start switch or timer, or a clogged exhaust vent that results in overheating. A malfunctioning electrical circuit board, a weakened door catch, or a broken door strike can be the cause.
Most technicians charge between $100 and $150 for a service call, but they may waive this fee if they end up doing the work. Labor costs typically run anywhere from $50 to $100 an hour after that.
For example, if your current dryer is more than 15 years old, it's probably best to replace it since this is about the time when most dryers reach the end of their serviceable lifespan (both gas and electric unit).
If the repair cost is more than 50% of a replacement tumble dryer, or your tumble dryer is over 50% of its expected lifespan, it will usually be more cost-effective to replace it.
Symptoms of a Blown Thermal Fuse
If you press the start button and nothing happens, the thermal fuse might be the culprit. No Heat: If the dryer drum runs but there's no heat, it could indicate that the thermal fuse has blown. This is because the fuse cuts off the heating element to prevent overheating.
When an RCD circuit breaker trips or a fuse blows when you switch the appliance on or off, this is usually caused by leakage to the ground or a short circuit. The problem can be caused by the incorrect connection of the appliance. Plug in the appliance somewhere else.
Signs You Need to Clean Your Dryer Vent
The outside of the dryer feels unusually hot during operation. There's a burning smell while the dryer is running. Lint buildup is visible around the dryer's lint trap or vent opening. The lint trap doesn't capture as much lint as it used to.
How long does a thermal fuse last in a dryer? The lifespan of a thermal fuse in a dryer can vary depending on usage and environmental factors. Generally, a thermal fuse can last several years under normal operating conditions before needing replacement.
If the cycling thermostat switches off, or displays no electrical continuity, within five percent of that temperature, the part is functioning properly. However, if the thermostat does not switch off, or switches off prematurely, you will have likely identified the culprit behind your dryer malfunctioning.
Check the Thermal Fuse
While it's meant to shut the entire dryer off, a faulty thermal fuse may cut power to the motor while the heating element remains on. This may be the reason for your dryer not spinning.
If the drum light doesn't turn off, a failed door switch is the likely reason the dryer won't start. A blown thermal fuse often prevents an electric dryer from starting.
For example, if you paid $800 (CAD 1094) for a dryer you've owned for five years, and the repair will cost around $200 (CAD 274), you should consider repairing it. However, if the repair will cost more than $250 (CAD 342), you should likely replace it, since the repair cost is more than 20% of its original cost.
The main reason that a thermal fuse will blow is a blocked exhaust vent. This is because when the exhaust vent is blocked hot air cannot properly get distributed out of the dryer and this causes it to overheat. So, if you give the exhaust vent a regular clean, it should stop the thermal fuse from blowing again.