Maytag Dryer Blowing Cold Air on Timed Dry:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Maytag dryers use a timer or electronic control board (MCU) to regulate the heating cycle. The timer sends voltage to the heating element circuit, which includes the thermal fuse, thermostat, and heating element. If any of these components fail, the heating circuit is interrupted, and the dryer will blow cold air. The MCU on newer models uses sensors to monitor temperature, and can also prevent the element from activating if there is an issue.

Symptoms:

The dryer is running and tumbling clothes, but the air coming out is cold, even when set to a timed dry cycle. Clothes are not drying.

Possible Causes:

Failed heating element
Faulty thermal fuse
Defective thermostat
Tripped thermal cut-off
Blocked vent duct
Defective dryer timer/control board

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the outlet. Verify there is 120V AC at the outlet using a multimeter.
2

Remove the rear access panel of the dryer using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Locate the thermal fuse. Use a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace if no continuity.
4

Inspect the heating element for breaks or damage. Use a multimeter to test for continuity. Resistance should be approximately 9-11 ohms. Replace if open or shorted.
5

Check the thermostat and thermal cut-off for continuity. Replace if faulty.
6

Inspect the vent duct for blockages. Clean any lint accumulation.
7

If all components test good, suspect a faulty dryer timer or control board. Replacement may be necessary. Consult the dryer's wiring diagram.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Use proper Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures. Dryer circuits operate at 240V, which can cause serious injury or death.

Prevention:

Clean the lint screen after every load. Inspect and clean the vent duct at least once a year to prevent lint buildup.

Expert Tip:

Many Maytag dryers have a diagnostic mode. Consult the service manual for your specific model to access and interpret error codes. This can help pinpoint the faulty component.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the heating element with a multimeter?

Unplug the dryer. Locate the heating element terminals. Set your multimeter to the ohms setting. Place the probes on each terminal of the heating element. A reading of approximately 9-11 ohms indicates a good element. An open reading indicates a failed element.

•Where is the thermal fuse located?

The thermal fuse is typically located on the blower housing or near the heating element housing at the rear of the dryer. It is a small, white, rectangular component with two wires connected to it.

•How often should I clean my dryer vent?

It is recommended to clean your dryer vent at least once a year, or more frequently if you notice a decrease in drying performance or if the vent duct is long or has multiple bends.

Maytag Dryer Blowing Cold Air on Timed Dry: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the heating element with a multimeter?

•Where is the thermal fuse located?

•How often should I clean my dryer vent?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: