Brand: Whirlpool
Model Number: GEQ9800PW2
Main Symptom: Keeps blowing thermal fuse
What happens & when: I keep replacing it and it keeps blowing every 2 to 3 days.
Error Code (if any):
Parts or tests already tried:
Photos / video link:
So I have several rental properties with lots of appliances and I do most of my repairs DIY. But I’ve got this one dryer that I just cannot figure out it’s older but in good condition and it keeps blowing the thermal fuse. So far I have replaced the cycling thermostat the high limit thermostat and of course the fuse but it keeps blowing the thermal fuse every two or three days. I have completely thoroughly cleaned the dryer of all lint and debris build up also on principle a new dryer vent hose and dryer vent Outlet to the outside and it is only a short run of 6 ft. I have also thoroughly thoroughly cleaned the blower and even replaced the seals on the metal cover that accesses the blower fan. The drum felt seal looks to be in good condition I’m not completely sure that it’s not worn but visually it looks like it is making a good seal. In my mind the thermal fuse is 352F I wonder why that blows rather than the high limit thermostat of 240F kicking in and shutting it off until it cools down? Anyway any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Matt
For your dryer GEQ9800PW2, you can perform a quick test with the dryer fully assembled and plugged in. Remove the access panel and observe the heating element. If the element begins glowing or getting hot when it should not be heating, that can help narrow down what the problem is being caused by.
Based on the symptoms you’re describing, it’s possible that the heating element ( WP3387747 Dryer Heating Element | Genuine Whirlpool OEM In Stock ) is grounded and causing the issue.
On this dryer, one side of the heating element always has 120 volts supplied to it. If the heating element becomes grounded against the metal housing, it can produce heat even when the dryer is turned off. This can also cause the dryer to continue heating when the thermostat is trying to cycle the heat off. Over time, the excessive heat can lead to repeated thermal fuse failures.
A simple way to check the heating element is:
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Unplug the dryer for safety.
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Remove the lower access panel.
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Disconnect the wires from both terminals of the heating element.
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Using a multimeter, test each heating element terminal to ground (the metal cabinet/frame) for continuity.
If either terminal shows continuity to ground, the heating element is internally grounded and will need to be replaced.
If these tests don’t resolve the issue, please feel free to reach back out to us. We’ll be happy to help with further troubleshooting and getting your dryer working properly again.