How to replace the sensor dry control board in an electric Whirlpool dryer
Steven E / Friday March 29, 2024
The sensor dry control board – also known as the moisture sensor board or moisture sensor circuit board – is a part of modern clothes dryers that have a moisture sensor drying cycle.
It helps monitor the moisture level of the clothes as they tumble during the drying cycle. This allows the dryer to automatically stop when the clothes have reached the desired dryness level, rather than running for a fixed time.
You may need to replace the sensor dry control board if it fails testing or is damaged in some way. Replacing a faulty sensor dry control board can restore the dryer’s ability to sense moisture levels and automatically stop at the right time so your laundry comes out perfectly dry.
If you need a new sensor dry control board or other parts for your electric Whirlpool dryer, you can use your model number to find what you’re looking for at AppliancePartsPros.com. We also have thousands of free DIY troubleshooting and repair guides to help you fix your dryer yourself.
Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article is based on general service manuals 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.
What you need
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Replacement control board (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dryer model BEFORE installing)
Disclaimer: 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 precautions
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 preventing 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 clearly 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.
- 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.
How to replace the sensor dry control board
- Make sure the dryer is turned off and disconnected from the power supply.
- Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the two screws at the back of the console.
- Push the console forward, then up.
- Find the control board (it’s really small) and remove it from the plug.
- Install the new control board.
- Close up the console and re-install the two screws.
FAQs
Q: What kind of repairs can I make on my dryer?
A: Most issues with dryers such as long dry times, overheating or strange noises involve parts that can be fixed by homeowners with a few basic steps and regular household tools. Always prioritize safety and follow all manufacturer guidelines while you work.
Q: What can I do to extend the life of my dryer after fixing it?
A: This is relatively easy to do. Always clean the lint filter after every use and clean the venting system at least once a year to maintain good airflow. Avoid overloading the dryer and use the appropriate settings for each load.
Q: How long should it take to dry laundry?
A: On average, a typical load of laundry can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to dry completely. The drying time can vary depending on the amount of clothes, the fabric, the dryer’s capacity, and the selected drying cycle. Heavier fabrics like towels or jeans may take longer to dry compared to lighter items. If your laundry is taking longer to dry than usual, the first troubleshooting step should always be to check and clean out the lint trap and dryer venting system.
Q: How often should I clean the lint trap?
A: Clean the lint trap after every drying cycle. A clean lint trap allows for better airflow, which helps prevent lint buildup in the vent system. This greatly reduces the risk of a fire.
Q: Are there any laundry items that I can’t dry in the dryer?
A: Most fabrics can be safely dried in a dryer, but it’s recommended to keep out delicate and sensitive materials such as silk, lace and wool. It’s best to hang dry these fabrics and others like them to prevent any damage. You may be able to use the dryer’s low-heat or delicate cycle. Always check the garment’s care label for specific drying instructions.
Q: How do I know which dryer cycle to use?
A: To find the best dryer cycle, check the garment’s care label for instructions. Look for symbols or text indicating the recommended drying method. Different fabrics have specific needs: delicate fabrics may require a gentle or low-heat cycle, while sturdier fabrics can typically handle regular cycles. You can also check the user manual for more specific cycle information for your dryer model.
More information
Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the sensor dry control board in your Whirlpool 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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With nearly a decade of experience in providing top-notch customer service regarding appliance parts and repair, Steven enjoys sharing practical advice, troubleshooting tips, and interesting information to help readers stay informed.