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LG Dryer tripping breaker

If your LG dryer keeps tripping the circuit breaker, the most likely causes are a weakened breaker, an internal short in the heating element or heating element assembly, or a problem at the power cord or terminal block. Start with the simplest explanation: breakers weaken with age and can trip below their rated amperage, so have an electrician check or replace the breaker if you can’t find a dryer fault. A failed heating element often shorts to the heater housing and will show continuity to the case when tested with a multimeter, and the same goes for a damaged heating element assembly. Next inspect the power cord and terminal block for loose, burnt, or melted terminals; bad connections can overheat and trip the breaker. Less commonly the drive motor can short internally and trip the circuit. You can test suspect parts with a multimeter or replace the heating element, element assembly, power cord, or motor as needed. 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 - LG 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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03 - LG Dryer Heating Element Assembly

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.
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04 - LG Dryer Power Cord

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.
Highly Likely

05 - Loose or Burnt Power Cord Connections

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.
Common

06 - LG 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.
Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer keep tripping the breaker?
How do I test the heating element if the dryer is tripping the breaker?
Can a bad drive motor cause my dryer to trip the breaker?
The breaker still trips after I checked parts. Should I replace the circuit breaker?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?