Most Frequent Causes for Dryer overheating
My bet would be the cycling thermostat
Cause 1
Heating Element
The heating element warms the air before the air enters the dryer drum. If the element is partially shorted out, it may produce heat continuously, even if the dryer has reached the proper temperature. When this happens, the dryer gets too hot. 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.
Cause 2
Heating Element Assembly
The heating element warms air as it passes over the element. If the element is partially shorted out, it may produce heat continuously, even if the dryer has reached the proper temperature. When this happens, the dryer gets too hot. To determine if the heating element is at fault, first use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. If the heating element does not have continuity, replace it. Next, test for continuity from each terminal 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.
Cause 3
Air Flow Problem
If the vent is clogged or partially clogged, it will restrict the airflow through the dryer, substantially increasing the drying time. To ensure proper dryer performance, you should clean your dryer’s venting system at least once per year.
Cause 4
Cycling Thermostat
The cycling thermostat cycles the heat on and off to maintain the proper air temperature. If the thermostat is defective, it may keep the heat on too long, causing the dryer to get too hot. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the cycling thermostat check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, test the thermostat by using a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the thermostat does not have continuity, replace it.
Cause 5
Felt Seal
Most dryers have a felt seal at the front and rear of the drum to prevent heat from escaping the drum. If the seal is worn out or missing, the heat will not be drawn through the drum properly, causing the dryer to get too hot. Check the drum seal to ensure that it is creating a reliable seal around the drum. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the felt seal check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the felt seal.
Cause 6
Blower Wheel
The blower wheel works with the drive motor to draw air into the dryer drum. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. In addition, the blower wheel sleeve can wear out, allowing the blower wheel to wobble on the motor shaft. If the blower wheel is obstructed or defective, the dryer may get too hot. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower wheel by hand. If the blower wheel wobbles as it turns, replace it.
2 Comments
Is the same thing as the high limit thermostat and can it be tested.
by mmarinelli72
Your dryer uses multiple thermostats to regulate its internal temperature. The cycle selected determines which thermostat is used. A cycling thermostat can be found somewhere in the path of air that is leaving the drum. It could be found on the blower wheel housing or inside the venting/exhaust system. Test them all with a multimeter for continuity.
by mayer