Admiral Dryer Heating Element Housing Glowing Red: Is It... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dryer's MCU controls the heating element by energizing a relay. The operating thermostat cycles the element on and off to maintain the desired temperature. The high-limit thermostat is a safety device that opens if the dryer overheats. Voltage paths involve 120V AC to the motor and controls, and 240V AC to the heating element. Continuous high voltage to the heating element will cause overheating.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that the heating element housing inside their Admiral dryer is glowing red during operation. They are concerned about the safety of the dryer and potential fire hazard.

Possible Causes:

Blocked exhaust vent
Faulty operating thermostat
Defective high-limit thermostat
Malfunctioning timer or electronic control board (MCU)
Heating element shorted to ground
Restricted airflow within the dryer cabinet

Solution:

1

Disconnect the dryer from the power outlet. Unplug it.
2

Inspect the exhaust vent for blockages. Remove any lint or obstructions. Ensure the vent is not crushed or excessively long.
3

Locate the operating thermostat and high-limit thermostat on the heating element housing. Use a multimeter to test for continuity. Replace if open.
4

Check the heating element for shorts to ground using a multimeter. Disconnect the element wires and test between each terminal and the dryer chassis. Resistance should be infinite.
5

If the thermostats and element are good, suspect a faulty timer or electronic control board (MCU). Observe the timer/MCU operation during a drying cycle. Look for signs of overheating components or erratic behavior.
6

Check the blower wheel for obstructions. Ensure it spins freely.
7

Reassemble the dryer and test its operation. Monitor the heating element housing for overheating. If the issue persists, further diagnostics of the MCU may be required by a qualified technician.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer before performing any repairs. Use proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental energizing of the circuit. Dryer circuits operate at 240V AC, which can cause serious injury or death. Consult a qualified technician if you are not comfortable performing electrical repairs.

Prevention:

Clean the lint filter after every load. Inspect and clean the exhaust vent at least once a year. Ensure proper airflow around the dryer.

Expert Tip:

Many Admiral dryers have a service mode accessible by pressing and holding specific buttons simultaneously. Consult the service manual for your model for specific instructions. This allows you to run diagnostic tests and view error codes.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct replacement part number for the high-limit thermostat on my Admiral dryer?

To find the correct part number, you will need the model number of your dryer. Once you have that, you can look up the part number on a parts website or consult a parts supplier.

•How do I test the operating thermostat with a multimeter?

Disconnect the thermostat from the dryer wiring. Set your multimeter to the continuity setting. Place the probes on the thermostat terminals. The meter should show continuity (a reading of near zero ohms) when the thermostat is closed (at room temperature). If the meter shows no continuity (OL or infinite resistance), the thermostat is open and needs replacement.

•What is the proper length and material for the exhaust vent?

The exhaust vent should be as short and straight as possible, ideally no more than 25 feet long. Use rigid metal ducting or flexible metal ducting. Avoid using plastic or foil ducting, as these are fire hazards and can easily become crushed.

Admiral Dryer Heating Element Housing Glowing Red: Is It Safe?

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct replacement part number for the high-limit thermostat on my Admiral dryer?

•How do I test the operating thermostat with a multimeter?

•What is the proper length and material for the exhaust vent?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: