Change out a bad cycling thermostat in an electric GE dryer: A complete guide

Is your electric GE dryer leaving your clothes damp with no end in sight? The culprit might be a worn-out cycling thermostat, a crucial component for regulating your dryer’s temperature. Don’t panic! Our step-by-step guide, complete with a how-to video, is here to help you replace it yourself in no time.

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

The cycling thermostat in an electric GE dryer monitors the temperature inside so the dryer can control the heating cycle. Over time, the cycling thermostat can wear out or become damaged. If this happens, you’ll need to replace it with a new one.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! With a new part and this replacement guide, you can replace the cycling thermostat yourself and get your dryer working again.

If you need any replacement parts for your GE 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.

Watch: How To Test A Whirlpool Dryer Cycling Thermostat WP8318268

What you need

• Replacement cycling thermostat (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dryer model before installing)
• Phillips screwdriver
• 1/4-inch driver

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.

Read more:  How To Disassemble A Dryer

Safety tips

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. 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.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

How to replace the cycling thermostat

Follow these steps to replace the cycling thermostat in your electric GE dryer.

Step 1: Access the old thermostat

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws at the top of the front panel, just behind the door.
3. Lift the top panel up slightly to clear the console legs, then pull the front panel forward.
4. Remove the Phillips screws at each back corner of the front panel.
5. Lift the front panel up, rotate it to the side, and disconnect the door switch wires.
6. Find the cycling thermostat on the blower housing.
7. Remove the 1/4-inch screw that holds the old cycling thermostat in place.
8. Carefully remove the old cycling thermostat from the dryer.

Step 2: Install the new cycling thermostat

1. Place the new cycling thermostat in the correct position on the blower housing.
2. Secure the new thermostat with the 1/4-inch screw.
3. Carefully transfer the wires one by one from the old thermostat to the new one.
4. Double-check that all wires are properly connected to the new cycling thermostat.

Step 3: Reassemble the dryer

1. Reposition the front panel and reconnect the door switch wires.
2. Secure the front panel with the screws you removed earlier.
3. Slide the top panel back onto the console legs and rotate it down.
4. Secure the top panel with the long Phillips screws you removed from behind the door.
5. Plug the dryer back in.
6. Run a test cycle to make sure the new cycling thermostat is working correctly.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the cycling thermostat on your electric GE dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts 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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