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HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Dryer RepairWhirlpool Dryer tripping breaker Repair
Whirlpool Dryer tripping breaker
If your Whirlpool dryer is 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 housing, or a bad power cord or loose/burnt terminal connections at the terminal block; a failed drive motor that has shorted internally can also trigger trips. Start by confirming the circuit breaker itself is healthy, since older breakers can trip below their rating and an electrician may need to replace it. Next check the heating element and element assembly with a multimeter for continuity to the case, which indicates a short. Inspect the power cord terminals and the terminal block for burnt or melted connections and tighten or replace damaged parts. If the drive motor shows signs of internal shorting, replace it. If you need parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your specific dryer and get step-by-step guidance so you can fix the problem confidently.
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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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?
Can a faulty heating element cause my dryer to trip the circuit breaker?
How can I check if the power cord or terminal block is causing the breaker to trip?
Could the drive motor make my dryer trip the breaker and how do I test it?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic to find the correct replacement part?
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