Frigidaire Affinity Dryer: Heating Element Glowing Red,... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The MCU (Main Control Unit) on the Frigidaire Affinity dryer controls the heating circuit. It sends 240V AC to the heating element when the appropriate conditions are met (timer setting, temperature selection, start signal). A thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat act as safety devices. The centrifugal switch on the motor also plays a role in some models, enabling the heating circuit only when the motor is running.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that the Frigidaire Affinity dryer's heating element is glowing a bright red, indicating it's receiving power, but the dryer is only blowing cold air into the drum, and clothes are not drying.

Possible Causes:

Blown thermal fuse
Faulty heating element coil (partially broken)
Defective high-limit thermostat
Blocked vent causing overheating and cycling
Malfunctioning dryer control board (MCU) not sending proper voltage
Stuck or failing centrifugal switch on the motor

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the outlet.
2

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

Locate and test the thermal fuse using a multimeter set to continuity. Replace if it shows open (no continuity).
4

Inspect the heating element coil for breaks or hot spots. If a break is found, replace the heating element assembly using a 5/16-inch socket.
5

Test the high-limit thermostat for continuity. If open, replace it. Located near the heating element housing.
6

Check the dryer vent for obstructions. Clean the vent duct from the dryer to the outside.
7

Verify the voltage at the heating element terminals when the dryer is running (carefully!). It should be approximately 240V AC. If voltage is low or absent, suspect a control board or wiring issue.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed. The heating element circuit carries 240V AC, which can be lethal.

Prevention:

Clean the lint filter after every load. Inspect and clean the dryer vent at least once a year to prevent overheating and potential fires.

Expert Tip:

Some Frigidaire dryers have a diagnostic mode. Consult the service manual for your specific model. Typically, you can enter the service mode by pressing and holding two buttons simultaneously (like 'Start' and 'Cancel') for a few seconds. This might reveal error codes related to the heating circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the thermal fuse located on my Frigidaire Affinity dryer?

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

•How do I test the dryer's high-limit thermostat?

Unplug the dryer. Locate the high-limit thermostat near the heating element. Disconnect the wires and use a multimeter set to continuity. It should show continuity at room temperature. If it shows open (no continuity), it's defective and needs replacement.

•The heating element looks fine, but the dryer still blows cold air. What else could it be?

If the heating element appears intact and the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat are good, the issue may be with the dryer's control board (MCU), a faulty centrifugal switch (if equipped), or a wiring problem in the heating circuit. A wiring diagram is helpful to trace the voltage path.

Frigidaire Affinity Dryer: Heating Element Glowing Red, Cold Air - Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the thermal fuse located on my Frigidaire Affinity dryer?

•How do I test the dryer's high-limit thermostat?

•The heating element looks fine, but the dryer still blows cold air. What else could it be?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: