Recently replaced the heating element due to the element being burnt apart in one spot. The dryer ran ok without any problems for about two months. We then began to experience tripping of the braker in the house braker box. It was found that our dehumidifier and water heater also appear to connect into this braker as they have no power when it is tripped.
Today the dryer runs but there is no heat. I took the dryer apart and found that the black wire that runs from the motor terminal block directly to the heating element was burned off at the terminal connector for the heating element. The motor was replaced under warranty on 1/29/03 and the heating element (and bearings/wheels were replaced on 2/17/09. The rigid metal dryer tube and inside of the dryer was cleaned of all lint when the element was replaced; it is still clear/clean today.
I suspect that an over current situation is occurring inside of the dryer and that caused the wire to burn. What would cause it?, A bad temperature sensor, thermal limiting switch or thermal fuse? What is the most common or most likely cause?
Thanks,
Chuck
I would think that:
Low voltage. A lack of proper voltage increases the current flow (amps) and can cause overheating, thus, a burnt wire. Remember, the lower the voltage, the higher the amps.
Bad connection. Poor connections can cause small amounts of arcing, thus burning the connection. This adds resistance to the circuit which causes a possible voltage drop and, again overheating due to higher amps.
Since all that equipment is on the same circuit, I would really think it is a voltage drop situation. With everything calling for power at the same time, the breaker trips. In some cases, it may be just enough for the breaker not to trip but still have a low voltage situation.
There is the possibility of an over current, such as a power spike from the power company but it would have to happen more than just a time or two.
And the outside chance that lighting got into the system when it struck something close to you home but it, in almost every case, would destroy something else, usually electronic. (This has happened to me. Trashed my dryer, dishwasher, and answering machine.)
Good luck and hope this helps. Le me know how you come out.
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