Why Does My Whirlpool Duet Electric Dryer Shut Off After Five Minutes?
Although it can be maddening when your Whirlpool Duet electric clothes dryer shuts off after five minutes, the issue isn't all that uncommon with dryers in general. In fact, there are several reasons why a dryer might start and stop without finishing a complete drying cycle. Rather than keep trying to operate your machine, review some possible causes and see whether or not you can pinpoint the specific issue. In certain cases, you might be able to resolve it on your own without having to contact a dryer repair specialist.
Lid Switch Doesn't Latch
A Whirlpool Duet dryer has a latch on the interior frame of the door. It essentially locks the door closed when the dryer is operating to keep you from opening the door and becoming injured by the tumbling drum. The dryer can only run when the latch is secured. If the latch breaks, a dryer might start but shut off prematurely. Open the door and press the latch down with your finger. It should make a ticking sound when you release it. Replace it if it doesn't.
Unsteady or Damaged Power Cord
A dryer's power cord delivers electricity from the electrical outlet to the machine. If the power cord isn't firmly plugged into the outlet, it can interfere with the electricity transfer. While your Whirlpool Duet dryer might start, it probably will shut off soon afterward if the cord is wobbly. Also, if cords wires are visible through the rubber encasing, the cord might be defective. Though the dryer turns on, a faulty power cord might not be able to sustain the dryer's long-term operation.
Triggered Thermal Fuse
A Whirlpool Duet clothes dryer has a thermal fuse. It's a device that safeguards your dryer in the event that it overheats by shutting off heat and occasionally the dryer on certain model years. Although you can restore partial operation to your dryer by resetting the main circuit breakers, the dryer won't perform correctly until the fuse is replaced. If you suspect your dryer has overheated, refer to your dryer manual for help locating the thermal fuse to check if it might have also blown. It's usually found in the vent collar or behind the back panel of your dryer. If the otherwise white fuse is grayed, chances are the thermal fuse is bad. You can usually replace it yourself with a new fuse obtained from an appliance retailer.
Faulty Control Panel
The Whirlpool Duet dryer's control panel operates with the support of multiple wires that link to various dryer components. After you choose a drying setting and turn on your dryer, the control panel begins running elements of the dryer. If one of the wires fails, it can disrupt the performance of your dryer. Contact a dryer repair specialist if you suspect that the control panel might have short circuited. If your dryer is still under warranty, rather than replace the corrupt wire, he might recommend replacing the entire panel.
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Writer Bio
Christie Gross has been writing since 1998. Her work writing public policy platforms for elected officials nationwide has been featured in national and local newspapers under various client pen names. Gross has a Bachelor of Arts in English and political science, as well as a Master of Public Administration from the University of Delaware.
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