Whirlpool 279769 Thermal Cut Off for Dryer Instruction Manual

Product Overview

The Whirlpool 279769 Thermal Cut Off Kit is a genuine OEM replacement part designed to ensure the safe and proper operation of your dryer. This kit includes components essential for maintaining the correct temperature and preventing overheating within the appliance.

It replaces part numbers 279548, 3398671, 3387812, 3389946, 2004, 695563, 80001, and 3977394. Compatible with multiple Whirlpool models, including NGD4655EW, WGD4815EW, WGD5000DW, MGDC215EW, and MGDX655DW.

Image: Components of the Whirlpool 279769 Thermal Cut Off Kit, including the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat.

Safety Information

• Always disconnect power to the dryer before servicing. Failure to do so can result in electrical shock or death.
• Ensure all panels are replaced securely before operating the dryer.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety glasses during installation.

Installation Guide

1. Accessing the Components

• Disconnect Power: Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet.
• Remove Rear Panel: Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the rear access panel of the dryer. Carefully set the panel aside.
• Locate Thermal Cut Off and Thermostat: These components are typically located near the heating element housing. Take a photo of the existing wiring for reference before disconnecting.

2. Replacing the Thermal Cut Off and Thermostat

• Disconnect Wires: Carefully remove the wires connected to the old thermal cut off and thermostat. Note their positions.
• Remove Old Parts: Unscrew and remove the old thermal cut off and thermostat from their mounting brackets.
• Install New Parts: Mount the new Whirlpool 279769 thermal cut off and thermostat in the same locations as the old ones. Secure them with screws.
• Reconnect Wires: Using your reference photo, reconnect the wires to the new components. Ensure connections are secure.

3. Reassembly

• Replace Rear Panel: Position the rear access panel back onto the dryer and secure it with all screws.
• Reconnect Power: Plug the dryer back into the electrical outlet.

Operating Principle

The thermal cut off and thermostat work in conjunction to regulate the temperature inside your dryer. The thermostat maintains the desired drying temperature by cycling the heating element on and off. The thermal cut off acts as a safety device, permanently breaking the circuit to the heating element if the dryer overheats beyond a safe limit, preventing potential fire hazards. Once the thermal cut off trips, it must be replaced.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent premature failure of thermal components. The most common cause of thermal cut off and thermostat failure is restricted airflow due to lint buildup.

• Clean Lint Filter: Clean the lint filter before every load.
• Inspect Dryer Vent: Periodically inspect and clean the entire dryer vent system (from the dryer to the exterior exhaust) to ensure unrestricted airflow.
• Clean Internal Lint: If you are replacing thermal components, thoroughly clean any lint buildup inside the dryer's internal ducts and around the heating element housing.

Troubleshooting

If your dryer is not heating or not starting, the thermal cut off or thermostat may be faulty. Here's how to test them:

Testing Thermal Components (Continuity Test)

• Disconnect Power: Always unplug the dryer before performing any tests.
• Access Components: Remove the rear panel to access the thermal cut off and thermostat.
• Use a Multimeter: Set your multimeter to the continuity setting (usually indicated by a beeping sound or ohm symbol).
• Test Thermal Cut Off: Disconnect one wire from the thermal cut off. Place one probe of the multimeter on each terminal of the thermal cut off. If the multimeter beeps or shows a reading close to 0 ohms, the thermal cut off has continuity and is likely good. If it shows "OL" (open line) or no reading, it is blown and needs replacement.
• Test Thermostat: Disconnect one wire from the thermostat. Place one probe of the multimeter on each terminal of the thermostat. A good thermostat will show continuity (beep or near 0 ohms). If it shows "OL", it is faulty and needs replacement.
• Test Heating Element: Disconnect both wires from the heating element. Place one probe on each terminal of the heating element. A good heating element will show a resistance reading (typically between 9-10 ohms). If it shows "OL" or a very high reading, the element is broken. Also, test for a grounded heating element by placing one probe on a heating element terminal and the other on the metal housing; there should be no continuity.

Specifications

Warranty & Support

Whirlpool offers a one-year warranty on genuine OEM parts, including the 279769 Thermal Cut Off Kit. For technical assistance, warranty claims, or further support, please refer to your dryer's original user manual or contact Whirlpool customer service directly.

You can visit the official Whirlpool store for more information: Whirlpool Store