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Whirlpool Dryer won't stop

If your Whirlpool dryer won't stop or keeps running after the cycle ends, the most likely cause is restricted airflow from a clogged vent or ducting — reduced air flow raises cabinet temperature and can make the machine run longer or even smell like something is burning. Next check your settings; the anti-wrinkle or tumble option will periodically tumble clothes after a cycle and can make it look like the dryer won't stop. A clogged or worn blower wheel is another common cause: lint or small items can jam the wheel or a worn sleeve can let it wobble, reducing air flow and extending run time. Also confirm incoming power and connections; a loose plug or a tripped breaker can lead to intermittent operation. If venting and power check out and the dryer is heating normally, a faulty control board may be allowing the unit to run past the end of the cycle—inspect for burn marks and test voltage to the drive motor if you can. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer.

01 - Air Flow Problem

If the vent line is clogged or partially clogged, it will restrict the airflow through the dryer, substantially increasing the drying time and cabinet temperature and potentially causing a burning smell. To ensure proper dryer performance, you should clean your dryer's venting system at least once per year.
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02 - Anti-wrinkle cycle option selected

Most dryer models have an anti-wrinkle cycle option that can be selected to reduce wrinkles. When selected the dryer drum will tumble the clothes every few minutes after the cycle is completed to help keep wrinkles from occurring. If this option was inadvertently selected the dryer will intermittently run until the clothes are removed.
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03 - Whirlpool Dryer Blower Wheel

The blower wheel draws air through the dryer and pushes the air out the vent. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. In addition, the blower wheel sleeve can wear out, allowing the blower wheel to wobble on the motor shaft. If the blower wheel is obstructed or defective, it may take too long to dry clothes. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower whee...l by hand. If the blower wheel wobbles as it turns, replace it.
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04 - Incoming Power Problem

Confirm a circuit breaker has not tripped and the power cord is plugged tightly into the wall receptacle. A loose plug can provide intermittent power to the dryer and cause it to spinning stop during the cycle.
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05 - Whirlpool Dryer Control Board

A dryer's control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component. You can also use a multimeter to test for voltage reaching the drive motor after reviewing the dryer's wiring diagram.
Common

06 - Whirlpool Dryer Main Control Board

A dryer's main control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won't my dryer stop when the cycle ends?
My dryer takes too long to dry and keeps running — what should I check?
The dryer smells like something is burning — could that be related to it not stopping?
My dryer loses power or trips the breaker during a cycle — what could cause this?
How do I enter my model number on RepairClinic to find the right replacement part?

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