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HomeRepair HelpKenmore Dryer RepairKenmore Dryer tripping breaker Repair
Kenmore Dryer tripping breaker
If your dryer keeps tripping the breaker, don’t panic — start with the most likely causes in order. Older or weak circuit breakers often trip even when the dryer’s draw is within range, so have an electrician test or replace the breaker before changing parts. If the breaker is fine, look for internal shorts: the heating element or the complete heating element assembly commonly shorts to the heater housing and will show continuity to the case when checked with a multimeter. Next check the power cord and terminal block: loose, burnt or melted connections at the terminal block or cord can short and make the breaker trip, so shut off power and inspect those terminals carefully. Finally, a drive motor with shorted windings can also trip the breaker, so test the motor if the other items check good. If you need replacement parts for any of these fixes, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact heating element, power cord, motor or other parts that fit 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.
Top Solution
02 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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?
Why does my dryer only trip the breaker when it heats?
Can a bad power cord or terminal block cause the dryer to trip the breaker?
How do I test the dryer drive motor for a short?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic to find the right replacement part?
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