What To Know
- If the reading is significantly higher or lower, the motor may have an issue with its windings and needs to be replaced.
- Touch one probe to the motor housing and the other probe to a known ground source, such as a metal pipe or a cold water faucet.
- If the voltage reading is significantly lower or higher, there may be an issue with the power supply or the motor itself.
A malfunctioning dryer motor can leave your clothes damp and unwearable. If you’re facing this issue with your Whirlpool dryer, it’s crucial to know how to test the motor to determine if it’s the culprit. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of testing your Whirlpool dryer motor and provide troubleshooting tips to resolve any motor-related problems.
Safety Precautions
Before you begin testing, ensure you follow these safety precautions:
- Disconnect the dryer from the power source.
- Wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses.
- Allow the dryer to cool down completely before handling any components.
Tools and Materials
To perform the test, you’ll need the following tools and materials:
- Multimeter
- Screwdriver
- Socket wrench
- Flashlight
Testing the Whirlpool Dryer Motor
1. Inspect the Motor for Visual Damage
Begin by visually inspecting the motor for any obvious signs of damage, such as burn marks, loose wires, or broken components. If you notice any visible damage, it’s likely that the motor needs to be replaced.
2. Test Motor Continuity
Use a multimeter to test the motor’s continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting. Touch the multimeter probes to the two motor terminals. The multimeter should display a reading between 2 and 10 ohms, indicating that the motor has continuity. If the reading is infinite (OL), the motor has an open circuit and needs to be replaced.
3. Test Motor Resistance
Next, test the motor’s resistance. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting. Touch one probe to the motor terminal and the other probe to the motor housing. The multimeter should display a reading between 0.5 and 2 ohms, indicating that the motor has proper resistance. If the reading is significantly higher or lower, the motor may have an issue with its windings and needs to be replaced.
4. Check for Grounding
Check if the motor is grounded properly. Set the multimeter to the continuity setting. Touch one probe to the motor housing and the other probe to a known ground source, such as a metal pipe or a cold water faucet. The multimeter should not display any continuity, indicating that the motor is not grounded. If the multimeter displays continuity, the motor may have a grounding issue that needs to be addressed.
5. Test Motor Voltage
Use a multimeter to test the motor’s voltage. Set the multimeter to the AC voltage setting. Connect the multimeter probes to the two motor terminals. Start the dryer and allow it to run for a few minutes. The multimeter should display a voltage reading that matches the voltage specified on the motor’s nameplate. If the voltage reading is significantly lower or higher, there may be an issue with the power supply or the motor itself.
6. Troubleshooting Motor Problems
If any of the tests fail, it indicates a problem with the motor. Here are some common motor problems and their troubleshooting tips:
- Open circuit: If the motor has an open circuit, replace the motor.
- Low resistance: If the motor has low resistance, check the motor windings for shorts. If the windings are damaged, replace the motor.
- High resistance: If the motor has high resistance, check the motor brushes and commutator for wear or damage. Replace the brushes or commutator as needed.
- Grounding issue: If the motor has a grounding issue, check the motor housing for any damage. If the housing is damaged, replace the motor.
Replacing the Whirlpool Dryer Motor
If the motor tests faulty and needs to be replaced, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the dryer from the power source.
2. Remove the rear panel of the dryer.
3. Locate the motor and disconnect the wires connected to it.
4. Remove the bolts holding the motor in place.
5. Carefully lift the motor out of the dryer.
6. Reverse the steps to install the new motor.
Takeaways: Keeping Your Whirlpool Dryer Running Smoothly
By following these testing and troubleshooting steps, you can effectively diagnose and resolve problems with your Whirlpool dryer motor. Regular maintenance and proper use can help extend the life of your dryer and keep your clothes dry and fresh. If you encounter any difficulties during the testing process or require further assistance, don’t hesitate to consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
What You Need to Learn
1. Can I test a Whirlpool dryer motor without a multimeter?
No, a multimeter is essential for accurately testing the motor’s continuity, resistance, and voltage.
2. What safety precautions should I take when testing a Whirlpool dryer motor?
Always disconnect the dryer from the power source, wear safety gear, and allow the dryer to cool down before handling any components.
3. What is the typical resistance range for a Whirlpool dryer motor?
The resistance range for a Whirlpool dryer motor typically falls between 0.5 and 2 ohms.
4. What does it mean if the motor has an open circuit?
An open circuit indicates that there is a break in the motor’s windings, requiring motor replacement.
5. Can I replace a Whirlpool dryer motor myself?
Yes, you can replace the motor yourself if you have basic repair skills and tools. However, if you are not comfortable with the process, it’s recommended to consult a qualified appliance repair technician.
