Frequently Asked Questions
•Where is the thermal fuse located on my Hotpoint dryer?
The thermal fuse is typically located on the blower housing, which is usually at the back of the dryer. You'll need to remove the rear access panel to find it. It's a small, white or black component with two wires connected to it.
•How do I discharge a capacitor on the control board?
The safest method is to use a resistor (around 10k ohms, 5 watts) connected to insulated test leads. With the dryer unplugged, connect the test leads to the capacitor terminals through the resistor. This slowly discharges the capacitor. Exercise extreme caution, as capacitors can store a dangerous charge even when the appliance is off.
•My dryer vent is very long. Could that be causing my dryer not to start?
A long or clogged dryer vent can cause the dryer to overheat, leading to the thermal fuse blowing. While a clogged vent won't directly prevent the dryer from starting after the fuse is replaced, it's crucial to clean the vent thoroughly to prevent future failures. Aim for the shortest, straightest vent path possible, and clean it at least once a year.