What blows a fuse on a dryer?

Author: Mr. Grayson Ondricka PhD  |  Last update: Sunday, August 3, 2025

Before you replace the fuse, it's important to figure out and fix the root issue. If you don't, the new fuse might just trip again soon after you replace it. The fuse usually stops working because the exhaust vent is blocked, there's too much lint inside the dryer, or there's an issue with the heating element.

Why does my dryer keep tripping the fuse?

The leading cause of thermal fuse burnout is obstructed airflow. Check the exhaust path for excessive lint or debris all the way to the exit point of the exhaust pipe. Check the blower wheel to make sure it isn't broken or clogged up. This can be done by using ``cool down'' or ``air fluff'' mode.

What would cause a fuse to keep blowing?

  • Overloaded Circuit : If too many devices are connected to a single circuit, it can exceed the fuse's rating, causing it to blow.
  • Short Circuit
  • Ground Fault
  • Faulty Appliances
  • Wiring Issues
  • Incorrect Fuse Rating

What happens if a dryer fuse is blown?

Fuses are simple but essential parts and the most common cause of a malfunctioning appliance. 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.

Is it worth replacing a heating element in a dryer?

The Benefits of Replacing a Dryer Heating Element

You may not even be able to use the dryer at all if the element isn't heating. Replacing it can restore your dryer's performance, making it a more cost-effective solution than buying a new appliance, given the dryer heating element cost.

How To Diagnose Clothes Dryers That Blow Fuses: Testing Thermal Fuses & Beyond,

What causes a dryer heating element to break?

Blocked vents: If your dryer airflow is poor from an obstructed air vent, heat can build up in your dryer, causing the element to burn out. Having your dryer vent cleaned each year can help to ensure good airflow.

How much does it cost to replace a fuse in a dryer?

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.

Will a dryer start with a bad thermal fuse?

A blown thermal fuse often prevents an electric dryer from starting. You'll find the thermal fuse on the blower housing. Unplug the dryer and check the thermal fuse for continuity. Replace the thermal fuse if the multimeter measures no continuity.

How to check for clogged dryer vent?

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.

Which condition usually causes a blown fuse?

Overloaded Circuit

The most common cause of a blown fuse we see as experienced Electricians in Sheffield is when something draws too much power from the circuit. This is most often caused by either too many lights or from using too many plug-in appliances at once.

What to do if the fuse keeps tripping?

Unplug all appliances on that problem circuit and switch off any immersion heaters (if you have one), boilers, outside lights etc. Switch the tripped switch to the ON position and plug in the appliances one by one until the trip goes again. If it does trip again then you will require a new appliance.

Can a fuse go bad for no reason?

Aging or Corroded Fuses: Fuses can wear out over time due to corrosion or age. Incorrect Fuse Rating: Using a fuse with the wrong amperage rating can lead to frequent blowing.

Why would a dryer keep blowing fuses?

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.

Can overloading a dryer cause the breaker to trip?

If you overload your electrical system by trying to draw more power than it is rated for, this may be the reason your circuit breakers keep tripping in your home. The breakers in your panel are designed to trip to prevent the wires from getting too hot and starting a fire.

How long do dryers last?

What is the average life of a dryer, you wonder? 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.

How to fix a blown thermal fuse in a dryer?

When the dryer gets too hot, the thermal fuse “trips” or "blows," shutting the power to the heating part of the dryer so that it does not overheat. Once a thermal fuse is blown, it can't be reset or reused and must be replaced.

Why has my dryer stopped working all of a sudden?

Various things will cause a dryer not to start, including a blown thermal fuse, clogged vent, malfunctioning motor or control board, misaligned drum or rollers, engaged child lock, overloaded unit, broken or worn-out belt, broken start switch, defective door latch, tripped circuit breaker, faulty outlet, or an ...

Why does my dryer keep tripping the fuse box?

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.

Is it cheaper to fix a dryer or buy a new one?

Dryer repair costs will vary depending on the issue. For example, it will cost much less to replace a dryer belt than a motor. That said, if your clothes dryer is more than halfway through its lifespan—7 years or more—and the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new one, you should consider replacing it.

What happens to a dryer when thermal fuse is blown?

In many cases, if your dryer has a malfunctioning thermal fuse, the dryer will not turn on at all. However, with some other dryers' models, the drum will turn and the dryer will operate, but the heating element will not turn on to heat up the clothing inside the dryer.

How to tell if your dryer element is bad?

The heating element is broken if your dryer runs but won't heat up to dry your clothes.

Can I fix my dryer myself?

The simple answer as to whether you can repair a dryer yourself is, it depends on the problem. Simple issues such as clogged dryer vents can be fixed without calling a technician if you understand how to do so safely.

Can a broken dryer cause a fire?

Mechanical and electrical failure

Like anything with moving parts and electronic components, faulty wiring and damaged machinery can potentially cause dryer fires. In a 2020 report by NFPA, it was found that mechanical failure caused 27% of dryer fires and electrical failures caused 16%.

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