If your dryer keeps tripping the circuit breaker, the most likely causes are a weak or failing breaker, a heating element or heating element assembly that has shorted to the case, or a problem with the power cord and its terminal connections; a shorted drive motor is less common but possible. A breaker can weaken with age and trip even when the dryer’s draw is within limits, so if you’ve ruled out appliance faults have an electrician check the breaker. For appliance checks, shut power off first, then use a multimeter to test the heating element terminals for continuity to the case and the motor windings for internal shorts. Inspect the power cord and terminal block for loose, burnt, or melted connections and replace any damaged parts. If testing shows a shorted element, assembly, cord, or motor, replacing that component usually stops the breaker trips. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part that fits your dryer.
01 - The Circuit Breaker is Weak
Over time, circuit breakers can weaken. If the circuit breaker is weak, it may trip, even if the amperage draw from the dryer is below the breakers limit. If you have already checked all of the potentially defective dryer components, consider having an electrician replace the circuit breaker.
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02 - Estate Dryer Heating Element
Sometimes, if the heating element fails, it shorts out against the heater housing, causing the dryer to trip the circuit breaker. To determine if the heating element is at fault, use a multimeter to test each terminal for continuity to the case. If the heating element has continuity to the case, it is shorted out. If the heating element is shorted out, replace it.
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Sometimes, if the heating element fails, it shorts out against the heater housing, causing the dryer to trip the circuit breaker. To determine if the heating element assembly is shorted out, use a multimeter to test each terminal for continuity to the case. If the heating element assembly has continuity to the case, it is shorted out. If the heating element assembly is shorted out, replace it.
If the dryer's power cord wire terminal connections are not secured properly to the terminal block, the terminal block can short out and cause a circuit breaker to trip or a fuse to blow. You should inspect both the terminal block and the power cord terminal connections for damage. If the power cord wire terminals are burnt or melted, you will need to replace the power cord.
Loose or burnt power cord connections can cause restricted current flow, making the circuit breaker overheat and trip. Shut off power to the dryer, then check the power cord connections and receptacle for burnt prongs, wires, or terminals. If the power cord or terminal block is damaged it will need to be replaced.
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06 - Estate Dryer Drive Motor
Sometimes, when the drive motor fails, it shorts out internally, causing the dryer to trip the circuit breaker. To determine if the drive motor is at fault, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If the motor windings are shorted out, replace the drive motor.