How to Test Temperature Switches on Kenmore Dryers

Written By
James Clark
James Clark
Published: Oct 26, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Step 1

Unplug the Kenmore power cord and pull the dryer cabinet forward to work on the back panel. Let the appliance cool, if you have been using it.

Step 2

Loosen the metal band on the vent hose with a nut driver and take the hose off the back panel.

Step 3

Remove the bolts holding the back panel to the rear of the Kenmore cabinet, using the nut driver. Pull off the panel and set aside. Locate the temperature switches on the left of the metal box containing the heating element. There will be one switch for each temperature setting available on your particular model.

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Step 4

Pull off the two wires attached to the contacts on the first switch. The wires are attaxched to slip-on connectors.

Step 5

Set the multimeter to test for continuity, typically labeled "RX1" on the selector switch or knob.

Step 6

Hold the test rods on the mutlimeter against the two contacts on the first temperature switch. At room temperature, a properly functioning switch should give a reading of zero on the multimeter.

Step 7

Reattach the two wires to the switch terminals and test each remaining switch the same way.

James Clark

James Clark began his career in 1985. He has written about electronics, appliance repair and outdoor topics for a variety of publications and websites. He has more than four years of experience in appliance and electrical repairs. Clark…

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