Whirlpool dryer won't turn off

Why does my Whirlpool dryer not turn off?

A locked up control board or a stuck relay on the circuit board can prevent your Whirlpool dryer from turning off.

Follow these troubleshooting tips to fix the problem.

Reset the Electronic Control Board

A power surge through the electrical supply lines going to your home can confuse or lock up the electronic control board in your dryer.

Reset the electronic control board by following these steps:

1. Unplug the dryer power cord to completely disconnect electrical power from the dryer.
2. Wait 2 minutes to allow all capacitors and components on the circuit board discharge.
3. Plug the dryer power cord back in to restore electrical power.

The control board will reboot and reset. The dryer may begin working normally.

How do I replace the electronic control board in my Whirlpool dryer?

When a stuck relay on the electronic control board is causing the dryer to run constantly without shutting off, you’ll need to replace that circuit board.

Follow the steps in this safe DIY video to replace the electronic control board in your dryer:

1. Unplug the dryer.
2. Slide the dryer away from the wall. On the back of the dryer, locate the two hex-head screws that secure the top panel to the frame. Remove the screws using a 1/4" nut driver. Pull the top panel back slightly to release the tabs behind the console. Pull the top panel up and off of the dryer.
3. Using a slot screwdriver, release the locking tabs from the wire connectors and disconnect all the wire from the control board.
4. Remove the single hex head screw with a 1/4" nut driver. Slide the electronic control board to release it from the support bracket slots.
5. Before removing the new control board from the package, touch the dryer's metal cabinet to dissipate static electricity. Position the new control board on the support bracket and push it into the mounting slots. Lock it into place so it lines up the mounting screw hole. Replace the mounting screw.
6. Connect the wires to the new electronic control board. Push the wire harness plug until its locking tab snaps into place. The plugs fit together only one way; if they aren't fitting together easily, reorient them. Never force the plugs into place. Warning: Connecting the wires incorrectly can damage dryer components. If you’re unsure about the connections, have a service technician complete the repair.
7. Place the panel on the top of the dryer and position it slightly away from the tabs behind the control panel. Push the panel forward to engage the tabs. Work the panel into place and replace the mounting screws at the back of the dryer.
8. Plug the dryer power cord into the wall outlet.

If you’re not certain that you can safely complete this repair on your own, schedule dryer repair service to have a Sears Home Services technician replace the control board.

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dryer won't turn off issue

How is the won't turn off problem fixed?

Correcting most won't turn off problems usually involves replacing the heating element, electronic control board or thermistor. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dryer that won't turn off

When the dryer won't turn off it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

What to look out for with a dryer won't turn off diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dryer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

A Whirlpool dryer that never ends its cycle can overheat fabrics or cause expensive power bills. Timer or control-board malfunctions commonly cause infinite tumbling. Shut it down and consult dryer repair near me. A proper stop keeps both machine and clothing safe.