Your Whirlpool dryer, a workhorse in your home, may need occasional maintenance. If it stops running, cycles are ending prematurely, or taking too long, the timer might be the issue. Fortunately, replacing the timer is a straightforward process with the right tools, a replacement part, and this guide.
Understanding the Timer and When to Replace It
The timer controls the duration of the drying cycle, helping laundry finish in the expected time. Whirlpool dryers feature either mechanical timers, which rotate with contact points, or digital electronic controls with LED displays.
Common timer issues include:
- Cycles ending too soon, leaving clothes damp or running too long, risking over-drying or damage.
- The dryer failing to start despite setting the timer and pressing start.
- The dryer stopping mid-cycle due to malfunctioning timer contacts.
- Absence of the usual ticking sound or other irregularities.
Signs Your Whirlpool Dryer Timer Needs Replacing
If you’re noticing the following signs, it’s time to replace the timer:
- Irregular Drying Cycles: If your dryer cycle completes too early or runs too long, it’s likely the timer isn’t functioning properly. This can lead to damp clothes or overly dry fabric that could be damaged by excessive heat.
- No Start or Mid-Cycle Stop: If the dryer doesn’t start when the timer is set or stops unexpectedly mid-cycle, the issue may lie with the timer’s electrical contacts.
- Absence of Ticking Sound: The mechanical timer in some Whirlpool dryers often makes a ticking noise. If you don’t hear it, this could indicate a malfunction.
Tools and Supplies Needed
To replace the timer, gather the following:
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Replacement timer (compatible with your specific model)
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Wire labels (for marking connections)
Safety First
When performing any appliance repair, prioritize safety with these precautions:
- Disconnect Power: Always unplug the appliance or switch off the circuit breaker to prevent electrical shock.
- Cool Down: Allow the dryer to cool completely if recently used.
- Organize Workspace: Work in a well-lit, clutter-free area and keep children and pets away.
- Handle with Care: Be gentle to avoid damaging components or injuring yourself.
- Wear Gloves: Insulated gloves protect against sharp edges and debris.
- Avoid Exposed Wires: Use non-conductive tools for handling wires, and take photos or notes of wiring connections to simplify reassembly.
How to Replace the Timer on a Whirlpool Dryer
Remove the Old Timer
- Turn off the dryer and unplug it from the outlet.
- Pull the timer knob straight off to remove it.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws on the top access panel located at the back of the dryer.
- Pull off the access panel and set it aside.
- Take a picture of the wires connected to the timer or label them for later reference.
- Disconnect the wire connectors from the timer terminals, using a small flathead screwdriver if needed.
- Remove the screws securing the timer with the 1/4-inch nut driver.
- Remove the old timer from the dryer.
Install the New Timer
- Align the new timer in the same orientation as the old one and insert it through the hole in the panel.
- Secure the new timer with screws using the 1/4-inch nut driver.
- Reconnect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the new timer, referring to your picture or labels.
Reassemble and Test
- Reattach the access panel and fasten it with screws using the 1/4-inch nut driver.
- Push the timer knob back onto the shaft, aligning it properly.
- Plug the dryer back into the outlet.
- Run a short test cycle to check that the dryer operates correctly.
Spotting those warning signs early can save you from bigger headaches down the line. With just a few tools and some patience, you can get your dryer back on track and your laundry routine running smoothly again.