Admiral Tumble Dryer Error Code E2: Thermostat Short... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The MCU (Main Control Unit) in the dryer monitors the thermostat circuit. The thermostat acts as a safety device, opening the circuit if the dryer overheats. An E2 error indicates the MCU is detecting a short circuit where it expects to see resistance. This means the voltage path is seeing a continuous flow when it shouldn't.

Symptoms:

The Admiral tumble dryer displays error code E2, and the dryer may not heat properly or at all. Clothes may come out damp even after a full drying cycle. The dryer might shut off prematurely during a cycle.

Possible Causes:

Shorted Thermostat
Wiring Harness Fault
Control Board Failure
High Limit Thermostat Failure
Stuck Relay on Control Board

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel.
2

Locate the thermostat. It is typically on the blower housing or heating element housing inside the dryer. You may need a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove access panels.
3

Disconnect the wires from the thermostat. Use a small flathead screwdriver to release any locking tabs.
4

Using a multimeter set to Ohms (resistance), test the thermostat. A shorted thermostat will read near 0 Ohms. A good thermostat should show some resistance, typically a closed circuit at room temperature.
5

If the thermostat is shorted, replace it with a new one. Ensure the new thermostat is the correct part number for your Admiral model.
6

Inspect the wiring harness for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires or loose connections. Repair or replace as needed. Use wire strippers and crimp connectors to properly repair wiring.
7

If the thermostat and wiring are good, the electronic control board may be faulty and require replacement. This requires further diagnosis, possibly testing voltage at the board with the dryer plugged in (use caution!).

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures should be followed to prevent accidental energization. Be aware of potentially high voltage (120V AC) when testing components with the dryer plugged in.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint filter before or after each load. Ensure proper ventilation of the dryer exhaust duct to prevent overheating. Schedule licensed technician dryer vent cleaning annually.

Expert Tip:

On some Admiral models, you can access the service mode by pressing and holding the Start/Pause and End Cycle buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. This may display diagnostic codes or allow for component testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct resistance reading for a normal, functioning thermostat on my Admiral dryer?

A functioning thermostat, when at room temperature, should exhibit very low resistance, almost a short circuit (less than 1 Ohm). It is a normally closed switch. If it reads open circuit (infinite resistance), it's already tripped.

•How do I test the wiring harness for continuity?

Using a multimeter set to continuity mode, place one probe on one end of a wire and the other probe on the other end. If the meter beeps or shows a low resistance value (close to 0 Ohms), the wire has continuity and is not broken. If there is no beep or high resistance, the wire is broken and needs repair or replacement.

•Where can I find the correct replacement thermostat for my specific Admiral dryer model?

You can find the correct replacement thermostat by searching online using your dryer's model number. Appliance parts retailers like AppliancePartsPros.com or RepairClinic.com are good sources. You can also check with local appliance parts stores.

Admiral Tumble Dryer Error Code E2: Thermostat Short Circuit Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct resistance reading for a normal, functioning thermostat on my Admiral dryer?

•How do I test the wiring harness for continuity?

•Where can I find the correct replacement thermostat for my specific Admiral dryer model?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: