Dryer timers are arguably the most important part of a dryer. A dryer timer calculates the length of each cycle. It also advances the dryer to the next drying setting when the temperature inside the tumbler has reached a certain level. If your timer is broken, the dryer may not advance to the next setting. The dryer will continue tumbling in its first phase until you manually stop the machine. This may ruin, over-dry, or even shrink your clothes. Read below to find out why your dryer timer is not working.

Most of the time when dryer timers break, it is the small electric motor inside of them that has either burnt out or failed. It is best to replace the entire timer. Taking out the electric motor out and replacing it is very difficult. It is also difficult to find and purchase that specific part. Buying a new timer will save a lot of time and it will ease the installation. To replace the timer, you should write down the model number and search for it online. It is easiest to wait until you receive the new timer before replacing it because it will be easier to remember where each wire is supposed to go.

Taking off the broken timer is fairly simple. Locate the timer and look for the screws that are holding it down. Make sure to turn the machine off. Some screws may be located under the knob, so take off the knob as well and look for any screws that may be attached to the timer. After unscrewing, remove the wires and cords that are attached to the old timer. Double check the wire and protective lining to make sure they are working correctly. Do not be surprised if the new timer looks different from the old one as newer model timers may be modified. Attach the wires to the new timer. Double check the instructions to make sure you completed each step.

If you want professional help with installing a new dryer timer, TalkLocal can connect you with a local appliance repair service.

This entry was updated on Tuesday, June 9th, 2015 at 10:32 am. This entry was originally posted on Tuesday, August 28th, 2012 at 6:00 pm and is filed under Appliances Repair. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.