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HomeRepair HelpMaytag Dryer RepairMaytag Dryer tripping breaker Repair
Maytag Dryer tripping breaker
If your Maytag dryer is tripping the circuit breaker, the most likely problems are a weak breaker, a shorted heating element or heating element assembly, a damaged power cord or terminal block, loose or burnt power cord connections, or a drive motor with shorted windings. Start by having the circuit breaker tested or replaced, because breakers weaken with age and can trip below their rated current. Next, with power shut off, use a multimeter to check the heating element and element assembly for continuity to the case; an element that shorts to the housing will blow the breaker. Inspect the power cord and terminal block for burnt prongs, melted insulation, or loose terminals, and tighten or replace any damaged connections. If those checks are clean, test the drive motor windings for shorts. These steps will pinpoint why your dryer is tripping breaker or why the dryer keeps tripping breaker and tell you whether you need a replacement element, cord, terminal block, or motor. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for 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 - Maytag 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 - Maytag 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 - Maytag 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 - Maytag 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 trips the breaker?
Can a bad power cord or terminal block make my dryer trip the breaker?
Could the drive motor be causing the breaker to trip?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to get the right replacement part?
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