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Dryer Tripping Breaker

The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Dryer tripping breaker are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.

Most Frequent Causes for Dryer tripping breaker

For the most accurate results, enter your model number.


Cause 1The Circuit Breaker is Weak

Over time, circuit breakers can weaken. If the circuit breaker is weak, it may trip, even if the amperage draw from the dryer is below the breakers limit. If you have already checked all of the potentially defective dryer components, consider having an electrician replace the circuit breaker.

Cause 2Heating Element

Sometimes, if the heating element fails, it shorts out against the heater housing, causing the dryer to trip the circuit breaker. To determine if the heating element is at fault, use a multimeter to test each terminal for continuity to the case. If the heating element has continuity to the case, it is shorted out. If the heating element is shorted out, replace it.

Parts
Cause 3Heating Element Assembly

Sometimes, if the heating element fails, it shorts out against the heater housing, causing the dryer to trip the circuit breaker. To determine if the heating element assembly is shorted out, use a multimeter to test each terminal for continuity to the case. If the heating element assembly has continuity to the case, it is shorted out. If the heating element assembly is shorted out, replace it.

Parts
Cause 4Power Cord

If the dryer's power cord wire terminal connections are not secured properly to the terminal block, the terminal block can short out and cause a circuit breaker to trip or a fuse to blow. You should inspect both the terminal block and the power cord terminal connections for damage. If the power cord wire terminals are burnt or melted, you will need to replace the power cord.

Parts
Cause 5Loose or Burnt Power Cord Connections

Loose or burnt power cord connections can cause restricted current flow, making the circuit breaker overheat and trip. Check the power cord connections at the dryer and receptacle for burnt prongs, wires, or terminals. If the power cord or terminal block is damaged it will need to be replaced.

Cause 6Drive Motor

Sometimes, when the drive motor fails, it shorts out internally, causing the dryer to trip the circuit breaker. To determine if the drive motor is at fault, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the motor windings are shorted out, replace the drive motor.

Parts
Cause 7Timer

Timer

Parts
Cause 8Terminal Block

Electric dryer power cords attach to the dryer at a terminal block. If any of the wires on the terminal block are loose, they can arc and destroy part of the block. If this happens, one of the wires can short against the body of the dryer, causing the dryer to trip the breaker. This is not a common occurrence.

Parts
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