Amana Dryer Not Heating: Troubleshooting Guide - Solar... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dryer's Main Control Unit (MCU) controls the heating circuit. When a drying cycle is initiated, the MCU monitors safety devices such as the high-limit thermostat and thermal fuse. It then sends voltage (240V AC) to the heating element via the motor centrifugal switch once the motor is running. A break in this voltage path will result in no heat.

Symptoms:

The Amana dryer drum is turning, and the timer is advancing, but there is no heat being produced. Clothes come out damp even after a full cycle.

Possible Causes:

Tripped Circuit Breaker
Faulty Heating Element
Defective High-Limit Thermostat
Malfunctioning Thermal Fuse
Stuck or Failing Centrifugal Switch on the Motor

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the outlet.
2

Locate the breaker panel and confirm the dryer's dedicated double breaker (usually 30 amp) has not tripped. Reset if necessary.
3

Access the heating element housing (usually at the rear of the dryer). This typically requires removing the rear panel using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
4

Disconnect the wires to the heating element. Using a multimeter set to ohms, test the heating element for continuity. A good element will typically read between 8-12 ohms. An open circuit indicates a failed heating element.
5

Locate the high-limit thermostat and thermal fuse, usually mounted near the heating element. Test each for continuity using the multimeter. Replace either if found open.
6

If the heating element, high-limit thermostat, and thermal fuse test good, suspect a problem with the motor centrifugal switch. This requires further diagnostics involving testing voltage to the heating element when the motor is running. CAUTION: This step involves live voltage testing and should only be performed by a qualified technician.
7

Replace any defective components and reassemble the dryer. Test the dryer for proper heating.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Utilize Lock-Out Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures. Some components carry 240V AC, which can cause serious injury or death. If you are not comfortable working with electricity, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Prevention:

Clean the lint filter before or after every load. Annually, disconnect the dryer vent from the back of the dryer and thoroughly clean the vent duct to remove lint buildup. Inspect the dryer vent externally to ensure proper airflow.

Expert Tip:

Some Amana dryers have a diagnostic mode. Press and hold the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds. Error codes may be displayed to assist in troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What should the voltage reading be at the heating element when the dryer is running?

You should read approximately 240V AC at the heating element terminals when the dryer is running and the heating circuit is energized.

•How do I access the motor centrifugal switch?

Accessing the centrifugal switch typically requires removing the dryer cabinet and gaining access to the motor assembly. The switch is usually located on the motor shaft.

•What if the heating element tests good, but I am still not getting 240V AC to it?

If the heating element is good, and you're not getting 240V AC, then you need to trace the voltage back through the high-limit thermostat, thermal fuse, wiring harness, motor centrifugal switch, and the control board, looking for breaks or faults.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What should the voltage reading be at the heating element when the dryer is running?

•How do I access the motor centrifugal switch?

•What if the heating element tests good, but I am still not getting 240V AC to it?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: