Where Is the Fuse on a Kenmore Dryer?

When it comes to maintaining your Kenmore dryer, one of the most crucial components to understand is the thermal fuse. This small but vital part plays a critical role in preventing your dryer from overheating. In this comprehensive guide, we will take an in-depth look at the thermal fuse, explain where it’s located, how you can identify it, and the steps to replace it.

What is a Thermal Fuse?

The thermal fuse is a safety device found in your dryer that interrupts the flow of electricity to the dryer’s heat source if the dryer temperature reaches a predetermined maximum point to prevent a potential fire.

Where is the Fuse Located?

The exact location of the fuse in a Kenmore dryer may vary depending on the model. However, the thermal fuse is typically located on the exhaust duct or the heat element casing. In some cases, it can be found on the blower housing. To access the thermal fuse, you will need to disconnect the dryer from its power source, remove the exhaust duct, and take off the rear panel.

How to Access the Fuse?

Here are the steps to access the thermal fuse on a Kenmore dryer:

1. Unplug the dryer: Always disconnect the dryer from its power source to ensure your safety.
2. Remove the back panel: Pull the dryer away from the wall and remove the back panel.
3. Locate the thermal fuse: The thermal fuse is typically 1 or 2 inches long and located on the exhaust duct.

Identifying the Fuse

Once you have accessed the correct area, identifying the fuse is relatively simple. The thermal fuse is usually white or metallic and is attached to the exhaust duct with a mounting screw. It has two wires connected to it.

Tools Necessary for Fuse Replacement

To replace the fuse, you will need the following tools:

1. Philips screwdriver
2. 1/4-inch nut driver
3. Putty knife
4. Needle-nose pliers
5. Wire strippers (optional)

Replacing the Fuse

Once you have the necessary tools, follow these steps to replace the thermal fuse:

1. Disconnect the wires from the thermal fuse.
2. Remove the mounting screw using a 1/4-inch nut driver and pull the fuse off the blower housing.
3. Position the new fuse and secure it with the screw.
4. Reconnect the wires to the new thermal fuse.
5. Reattach the back panel and plug the dryer back in.

Safety Precautions

Safety should always be the top priority when working on any electrical appliance. Always unplug the dryer from its power source before beginning any work. Wear protective gloves to protect your hands and use the correct tools.

Identifying a Blown Fuse

To determine if the fuse needs to be replaced, perform a continuity test using a multimeter. If there is no continuity, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.

Compatible Fuses

Some of the common fuses compatible with Kenmore dryers include the 3392519 Dryer Thermal Fuse, 3390719 Dryer Thermal Fuse, and the 279769 Dryer Fuse & Thermostat Kit. Always ensure that the replacement fuse is compatible with your specific Kenmore dryer model.

Conclusion

While replacing the fuse on a Kenmore dryer can be a DIY task, if you are not comfortable with the process or encounter any issues, it’s best to consult a professional for assistance. Always remember to address the cause of the blown fuse to prevent the new fuse from blowing again.