Kitchen Aid Dryer Not getting Hot

[andrewM]

Model Number: KEYE777BWH2


i tried reading through some of the older threads and found some useful info, but i could use more help.

Our dryer seems to work normally except for the heater not working.  

without troubleshooting, i went out and got a new element for it.  switched that out without a problem, but it didn't fix my problem.

i read about the thermal fuse, and checked it for continuity. it has continuity.

i checked the resistance of the new element and its 10 ohms, i think that's where it should be...  using my 'hot stick' which shows current only, not voltage, i have current at all terminals, the heater, the 2 thermostats, the fuse, the other terminals near the exhaust...

i would think, that with the element showing current passing through it, that it would heat up...but then i just tested the air dry setting and it has current at that setting, so...

I'm kinda at a loss. i think there are other things i should be checking. i think i have 220 at the outlet. i used my multimeter on the power cord's terminals, touched a terminal and ground, got a reading around 110 for 2 of the 3 terminals... not sure if that means i have 220..

any insight on the next step to take would be appreciated.

Thank you,

Andrew

[JWWebster]

Above the heater element on the upper portion of the heat element chamber is a 300 degree high limit. if it is open you will not have heat.
Part number 8(schematic bulkhead parts for K-aid dryer etc etc etc)on the old appliance parts pros lookup AP3094244 21.51 plus tax title and freight. NOTE: replace both the lower and upper guys because the upper one blows at a higher temp than the lower dude so the lower guy didn't do his job.

[Repair-man]

read about the thermal fuse, and checked it for continuity. it has continuity.

Be sure and  check  the other thermostats as well, including the hi-limit. Your voltage at the wall plug may be the problem. I find it easier to take the back plate off the dryer instead and do your checks. A hot stick is not a voltmeter and will not confirm 240 volts. There must be 240 volts between the 2 outer terminals on the wiring block of the dryer where the cord attaches. To check the wall voltage, see the pic below:

[RegUS_PatOff]

... using my 'hot stick' which shows current only, not voltage ...

"hot stick" shows voltage

also check the Hi-Limits JW mentioned.

[andrewM]

thank you all for your help,

its the hi-limit.

i'll change them both out.

thank you again.

-Andrew

[RegUS_PatOff]

its the hi-limit...

but why

Disconnect the Vent and check for good air-flow

Should be rigid metal Vent

Foil Duct Tape

NO plastic
NO PVC
NO screws

Vent temperature should be:

With an empty load, Timed Dry, High Heat
It should cycle somewhere between 135F and 160F

[JWWebster]

Excellent post by Reg, make sure your dryer can properly breath or you will be buying more hi limits. Give it a good cleaning.