Cycling Thermostat Kit, Operating Thermostat, Temperature Control Thermostat, Adjustable Bi-Metal Thermostat, 2-Terminal Thermostat Kit

WP694674, 694674, 341146, 660039, 868581, 232960, 233155, AP6010610, PS11743793, EAP11743793

Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, KitchenAid, Roper, Estate, Inglis, Admiral, Crosley, Amana, Magic Chef

Whirlpool Electric Dryers LER4634EQ0, LER4634EQ1, LER4634EQ2, LER4634JQ0, LER4634JQ1, LER4634JQ2, LER4634PQ0, LER4634PQ1, LER4634PQ2, LER5636JQ0, LER5636JQ1, LER5636JQ2, LER5636PQ0, LER5636PQ1, LER5636PQ2, LER7646JQ0, LER7646JQ1, LER7646JQ2, LER7646PQ0, LER7646PQ1, LER7646PQ2, WED4800BQ0, WED4800BQ1, WED4800BQ2, WED4800XQ0, WED4800XQ1, WED4800XQ2, WED4815EW0, WED4815EW1, WED4815EW2, WED4850BW0, WED4850BW1, WED4850BW2, WED4850HW0, WED4850HW1, WED4850HW2, WED4900XW0, WED4900XW1, WED4900XW2, WED4910XQ0, WED4910XQ1, WED4910XQ2, WED4915EW0, WED4915EW1, WED4915EW2, WED4950HW0, WED4950HW1, WED4950HW2, WED5000DW0, WED5000DW1, WED5000DW2, WED5100HW0, WED5100HW1, WED5100HW2, WED5200VQ0, WED5200VQ1, WED5200VQ2, WED5300VW0, WED5300VW1, WED5300VW2

Kenmore Electric Dryers 110.61202010, 110.61202011, 110.61202012, 110.61212010, 110.61212011, 110.61212012, 110.61222010, 110.61222011, 110.61222012, 110.62202010, 110.62202011, 110.62202012, 110.62212010, 110.62212011, 110.62212012, 110.62222010, 110.62222011, 110.62222012, 110.62802010, 110.62802011, 110.62802012, 110.62812010, 110.62812011, 110.62812012, 110.62822010, 110.62822011, 110.62822012, 110.63202010, 110.63202011, 110.63202012, 110.63212010, 110.63212011, 110.63212012, 110.63222010, 110.63222011, 110.63222012

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: This repair involves working with electrical components. Always unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet to prevent electrical shock. Never touch electrical components while the dryer is powered. Allow the dryer to cool completely if it was recently used (at least 30 minutes). If uncomfortable with this repair or unfamiliar with dryer electrical systems, hire a qualified appliance technician. IMPORTANT: Before installing the new thermostat, you must set it to the correct temperature using the included instructions and setting chart—incorrect setting causes poor drying performance or overheating.TOOLS REQUIRED: Phillips screwdriver, flathead screwdriver, nut driver or socket set (typically 1/4-inch), needle-nose pliers, flashlight, work gloves, multimeter (optional, for testing), masking tape and marker (for labeling wires).IMPORTANT: This repair requires accessing the heater box or blower housing, which may require removing the front panel or rear access panel depending on dryer model.

1. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet to ensure complete power disconnection. CRITICAL: Never work on the dryer while it's plugged in.
2. Allow the dryer to cool completely if it was recently used (at least 30 minutes). CRITICAL: Never work on hot dryer components—severe burns can result.
3. Take multiple photos of the dryer configuration, panel locations, and wire routing before disassembly. CRITICAL: Proper reassembly requires exact component positioning.
4. Locate the old cycling thermostat (typically mounted on the heater box or blower housing). Important: You'll need to identify the old thermostat's temperature setting to configure the new adjustable thermostat.
5. Remove the rear access panel (if applicable) by removing the screws securing it using a Phillips screwdriver or nut driver (typically 4-6 screws). Caution: Support the panel while removing the last screw.
6. Alternatively, remove the front panel (if applicable) by: removing the lint screen, removing the screws beneath the lint screen opening, lifting the top panel, disconnecting the door switch wires, removing the front panel screws, and carefully removing the front panel. Important: Panel removal varies by dryer model—consult your service manual if needed.
7. Locate the old cycling thermostat (typically a small rectangular or round metal component with 2 terminals, mounted on the heater box or blower housing with 1-2 screws).
8. Take detailed close-up photos of: the old thermostat (to identify its temperature setting if marked), the thermostat wire connections (wire colors and terminal positions), the thermostat mounting screw locations, the thermostat orientation, and any other components nearby.
9. Identify the old thermostat's temperature setting by looking for markings on the thermostat body (such as "L135", "L140", "L145", "L150", or "L155"). CRITICAL: You must set the new adjustable thermostat to match this temperature setting.
10. Unpack the new WP694674 adjustable cycling thermostat kit from its packaging. The kit includes: one adjustable thermostat, two jumper wires, two ceramic wire nuts, and installation instructions with setting chart.
11. Read the installation instructions included in the kit carefully. CRITICAL: The thermostat must be set to the correct temperature before installation.
12. Set the new adjustable thermostat to the correct temperature using the adjustment dial or pointer: Locate the adjustment dial or pointer on the thermostat body. Consult the included setting chart to determine the correct setting based on your old thermostat's temperature (typically letters A through E corresponding to 135°F, 140°F, 145°F, 150°F, or 155°F). Rotate the dial or move the pointer to the correct setting position. CRITICAL: Incorrect setting causes poor drying performance or overheating.
13. If the old thermostat setting is unknown, use the default setting of 155°F (setting E) for most dryers. Important: This is the most common setting for standard electric dryers.
14. Label each wire before disconnecting by applying masking tape to each wire and marking it with the terminal number or position (Terminal 1, Terminal 2). CRITICAL: Incorrect wiring causes dryer malfunction or component damage.
15. Disconnect the wires from the old cycling thermostat terminals by pulling the spade connectors straight off or loosening the screw terminals (depending on terminal type). Caution: Do not pull on the wires—grasp the connector and pull straight.
16. Remove the mounting screw(s) securing the old cycling thermostat to the heater box or blower housing using a Phillips screwdriver or nut driver (typically 1-2 screws). Caution: Support the thermostat while removing the last screw.
17. Carefully remove the old cycling thermostat from the dryer.
18. Inspect the old cycling thermostat for damage indicators: thermostat doesn't click when heated (bi-metal disc failure, most common), visible burn marks or pitting on electrical contacts (arcing damage), contacts stuck open or closed (contamination or wear), melted or damaged housing (severe overheating), or visible corrosion on terminals (moisture damage). This confirms the diagnosis.
19. Inspect the heater box or blower housing for lint buildup or debris. Clean if needed using a soft brush or vacuum. Important: Lint buildup can cause thermostat failure and dryer overheating.
20. Check the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat (typically located near the cycling thermostat). Test with a multimeter set to ohms—both should show continuity (0-1 ohms). If either shows infinite resistance, it's blown and must be replaced. CRITICAL: A blown thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat indicates the dryer overheated—the cause must be identified and corrected.
21. Position the new cycling thermostat on the heater box or blower housing, aligning the mounting hole(s) with the bracket holes. Important: Ensure the thermostat is oriented correctly—the sensing element should face the heated air flow.
22. Install the mounting screw(s) to secure the thermostat. Important: Tighten firmly but do not over-tighten—over-tightening can crack the thermostat housing.
23. Verify the thermostat is securely mounted with no excessive play or movement.
24. Connect the jumper wires provided in the kit: Take one jumper wire and connect one end to Terminal 1 of the thermostat. Connect the other end of the jumper wire to the wire you labeled "Terminal 1" from the old thermostat. Secure the connection using one of the ceramic wire nuts provided—hold the two wires together, insert them into the ceramic wire nut, and turn clockwise until tight. Important: The wires should be securely connected with no exposed copper visible.
25. Repeat for Terminal 2: Take the second jumper wire and connect one end to Terminal 2 of the thermostat. Connect the other end of the jumper wire to the wire you labeled "Terminal 2" from the old thermostat. Secure the connection using the second ceramic wire nut.
26. Verify all wire connections are secure by gently tugging on each wire—they should not come apart.
27. Verify no bare wire is exposed at the connections—all copper should be covered by the wire nut.
28. **Position the wires** so they're not pinched, stressed, or touching hot surfaces.
    29. Reinstall the rear access panel or front panel by reversing the disassembly steps: position the panel, install the mounting screws, reconnect any disconnected wires (door switch, etc.), and verify all components are secure.
    30. Restore electrical power by plugging in the dryer.
    31. Run a test cycle to verify proper cycling thermostat operation:
    - Load the dryer with a few damp towels
    - Select a timed dry cycle (30 minutes) on high heat
    - Start the dryer
    - Allow the dryer to run for 10-15 minutes
    - Listen for the heating element cycling on and off (you may hear a click when the thermostat opens and closes)
    - Feel the exhaust air—it should be warm but not excessively hot
    - Verify the dryer doesn't overheat or shut off prematurely
    - Allow the cycle to complete
    - Verify the clothes are drying properly
    32. Monitor the dryer temperature during the test cycle. The exhaust air should be warm (approximately 130-155°F depending on thermostat setting) but not excessively hot. Important: If the dryer overheats, stop immediately and verify the thermostat setting is correct.
    33. Listen for the cycling thermostat operation during the test cycle. You may hear a faint click when the thermostat opens and closes as it cycles the heating element. Important: This clicking is normal operation.
    34. Verify the dryer doesn't blow the thermal fuse during the test cycle. If the thermal fuse blows, the thermostat may be set too high or installed incorrectly.
    35. If the dryer operates normally and maintains proper temperature, the repair is complete.Safety Notes: Always unplug the dryer before working on electrical components. Allow the dryer to cool completely before beginning work (at least 30 minutes). Handle the thermostat carefully—the bi-metal disc is precision-engineered. Set the thermostat to the correct temperature before installation using the included instructions. Label all wires before disconnecting to ensure correct reconnection. Verify all wire connections are secure with no exposed terminals. Do not force wire connectors—they should push on or screw on smoothly. Position wires so they're not pinched or touching hot surfaces. Verify the thermostat is oriented correctly with the sensing element facing the heated air flow. Monitor the first test cycle for proper temperature control. If the dryer overheats or the thermal fuse blows, stop immediately and verify the thermostat setting and installation. This repair typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on dryer model and access. If uncomfortable working with dryer electrical components or unfamiliar with thermostat replacement procedures, hire a professional appliance technician.
    
    

1. The WP694674 is an adjustable thermostat that must be set to the correct temperature before installation—incorrect setting causes poor drying performance or overheating. The thermostat is adjustable from 135°F to 155°F in 5°F increments (settings A through E). The correct setting depends on your dryer model and original thermostat. Most standard electric dryers use 155°F (setting E), but some models use 150°F (setting D) or 145°F (setting C). Always identify the old thermostat's temperature setting before installation and set the new thermostat to match. If the setting is unknown, use the default 155°F setting. Incorrect setting causes the dryer to heat too much (if set too high) or too little (if set too low).
2. The adjustable thermostat has a 20°F temperature differential—it closes 20°F below the set temperature and opens at the set temperature. If the thermostat is set to 155°F, it closes at 135°F and opens at 155°F. This 20°F differential maintains stable temperature control. The differential is fixed and cannot be adjusted. If you need a different differential, a fixed-temperature thermostat (like the WP3387134) may be required instead.
3. The bi-metal disc or coil must be positioned to face the heated air flow for accurate temperature sensing—incorrect positioning causes incorrect temperature readings and poor drying performance. The cycling thermostat senses temperature by measuring the heat of the air flowing past it. If the thermostat is installed backward or at an incorrect angle, the sensing element doesn't receive accurate temperature readings, causing the thermostat to open and close at incorrect temperatures. When installing the new thermostat, verify the orientation by checking against your detailed photos of the old thermostat. The sensing element should face the direction of heated air flow from the heater box.
4. Wire connections must be made to the correct terminals—incorrect wiring causes the thermostat to not operate at all or cycle at wrong temperatures. The adjustable thermostat has 2 terminals (unlike the 4-terminal fixed thermostat). The two wires from the dryer wiring must be connected to the two thermostat terminals. Incorrect wiring causes the thermostat to malfunction. Always label each wire before disconnecting and verify the correct terminal connections using your photos. If you're unsure about the correct wiring, consult the service manual or contact a qualified technician before reconnecting the wires.
5. The thermostat should click when opening and closing during normal operation—if no clicking sound is heard, the thermostat may not be cycling properly. During a drying cycle, you may hear a faint click when the thermostat opens and closes as it cycles the heating element on and off. This clicking sound indicates the thermostat is operating properly. If no clicking sound is heard, the thermostat may be stuck open or closed, or the electrical contacts may be worn and not making proper contact. If no clicking is heard during a test cycle, stop the dryer and verify the thermostat installation and wire connections.
6. The heater box or blower housing should be cleaned of lint and debris before installing the new thermostat—lint buildup can cause thermostat failure and dryer overheating. Lint and debris accumulate in the heater box and blower housing over time, especially if the dryer vent is clogged. This buildup can insulate the thermostat, preventing it from sensing temperature accurately. Lint can also catch fire if it contacts the hot heating element. Before installing the new thermostat, clean the heater box and blower housing thoroughly using a soft brush or vacuum. Remove all lint and debris. A clean heater box ensures proper thermostat operation and safe dryer performance.
7. The thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat should be tested before installing the new cycling thermostat—if either is blown, it must be replaced. The thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat are safety devices located near the cycling thermostat. Test both with a multimeter set to ohms—they should show continuity (0-1 ohms) when functioning properly. If either shows infinite resistance, it's blown and must be replaced. A blown thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat indicates the dryer overheated. Identify and correct the cause of overheating before operating the dryer again.
8. If the dryer overheats and blows the thermal fuse repeatedly after thermostat replacement, verify the thermostat is set to the correct temperature—incorrect setting causes overheating. If the thermal fuse blows within a few minutes of starting the dryer, the cycling thermostat is not opening to cool the dryer. This can be caused by: the thermostat set too high (causing it to not open until excessive temperature is reached), the thermostat stuck closed, the thermostat installed backward or at an incorrect angle, the wires connected to the wrong terminals, or the new thermostat is faulty. Verify the thermostat setting using the included instructions and setting chart. If the setting is correct but the dryer still overheats, check the thermostat installation and wire connections.
9. The cycling thermostat has a typical lifespan of 8-12 years with average use, but can be shortened by dryer overheating, lint buildup, or electrical stress. Factors that shorten thermostat lifespan include: dryer overheating from clogged vent or faulty blower (thermal stress), lint buildup insulating the thermostat (thermal stress), electrical surges or voltage fluctuations (electrical stress), repeated thermal cycling from frequent use (mechanical stress), or manufacturing defects. To extend thermostat lifespan, keep the dryer vent clean and unobstructed, clean lint from the heater box regularly, maintain proper electrical connections, and verify the blower wheel operates properly. Regular maintenance and prompt replacement of faulty thermostats ensure reliable dryer operation.
10. If the dryer doesn't heat at all after thermostat replacement, verify the thermostat is set to the correct temperature and the wires are connected to the correct terminals. If the dryer doesn't produce any heat after installing the new thermostat, the thermostat may be stuck open (not allowing power to the heating element), the thermostat may be set too low (causing it to open too early), or the wires may be connected to the wrong terminals (preventing power from reaching the thermostat). Verify the wire connections using your labels and photos. Verify the thermostat setting using the included instructions. If the connections and setting are correct but the dryer still doesn't heat, the thermostat may be faulty and should be replaced.
11. The WP694674 adjustable thermostat is compatible with most Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, and other brand dryers that originally used fixed-temperature thermostats—the adjustable design provides flexibility for different dryer models. The adjustable thermostat can replace most fixed-temperature thermostats by setting it to the correct temperature for your specific dryer model. This flexibility allows one thermostat to work with multiple dryer models. Always verify compatibility by checking the old thermostat part number and consulting the compatibility chart. If unsure about compatibility, contact a qualified technician or consult the service manual.
12. Never attempt to repair a failed cycling thermostat by cleaning, adjusting, or disassembling the thermostat—these repairs are unsafe and will fail immediately. A failed cycling thermostat cannot be safely repaired. Attempting to clean the electrical contacts or adjust the bi-metal disc can damage the thermostat and create safety hazards. Disassembling the thermostat will destroy it. Never attempt any repair of a failed thermostat. Always replace the entire thermostat with a new one. Using a repaired thermostat is a serious safety risk and will result in dryer malfunction or overheating.