How do I know if the cycling thermostat in my Kenmore electric dryer is bad?

Has your Kenmore electric dryer been taking forever to dry clothes, and we wonder if it’s finally time to test and potentially replace the cycling thermostat? Hang on as we help you figure out through simple testing and replacement tips to save you a service call.

If you need any replacement parts for your Kenmore electric dryer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The troubleshooting information in this article is based on model 11068722700 and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Necessary supplies

• ¼ inch nut driver
• ¼ inch socket
• Putty knife
• Thermometer
• Abrasive pad or brush
• Dish soap

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Safety tips

When working on any appliance, always keep safety first to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance or its parts. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Read more: 9 Ways To Improve Your Dryer’s Performance

How to test and replace the cycling thermostat on a Kenmore electric dryer

Step 1. Test the thermostat

1. Remove all laundry from the dryer.
2. Pull the dryer away from the wall to access the vent port at the back.
3. Disconnect the vent from the dryer.
4. Turn the dryer on to a timed heat setting.
5. Use a thermometer to measure the temperature coming out of the vent.
6. Check if the temperature is between 125-160°F. If it falls within this range, the thermostat is functioning properly.
7. If the temperature is outside of this range, the thermostat may need replacement.

Step 2. Access the cycling thermostat

1. Use a putty knife to press the two clips that hold the bottom access panel, and remove the panel.
2. Use a ¼ inch nut driver to remove the screws securing the blower housing cover.
3. Remove the blower housing cover and set it aside, cleaning it if necessary.

Step 3. Disconnect the old thermostat

1. Locate the cycling thermostat on top of the blower housing.
2. Disconnect the four wires from the thermostat. There will be two red wires (one solid red, one with a white stripe) and two purple wires going to the heater.
3. Use a ¼ inch socket to remove the two screws securing the thermostat.

Step 4. Remove and replace the thermostat

1. Remove the defective thermostat from the blower housing.
2. Install the new thermostat in its place.
3. Secure the new thermostat using the two screws.
4. Reconnect the four wires to their original positions on the new thermostat.

Step 5. Reassemble the dryer

1. Reinstall the blower housing cover and secure it using the ¼ inch screws.
2. Snap the bottom access panel back into place.
3. Open the dryer door and insert the lint screen.
4. Plug the dryer back in or turn the breaker back on to restore power.

Read more: Electric Dryer Making Loud Noises: Top 6 Reasons & Fixes

Looking for more?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the cycling thermostat in your Kenmore electric dryer. 

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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