WPW10116735 Whirlpool Dryer High Limit Thermostat – Fix Your Dryer That Won't Heat, Overheats, or Shuts Off Too Soon

The WPW10116735 dryer high limit thermostat is a critical safety component that prevents your Whirlpool dryer from overheating by cutting power to the heating element when temperatures exceed safe levels. This genuine OEM replacement part monitors the dryer's internal temperature and acts as a fail-safe to protect against fire hazards and component damage. When the high limit thermostat fails, your dryer may not heat at all, overheat and damage clothes, or shut off prematurely during cycles.

Replacing a faulty high limit thermostat restores safe operation, ensures proper heating performance, and protects your dryer from damage. This OEM part is manufactured to Whirlpool's exact specifications, providing guaranteed compatibility and reliable long-term performance.

✓ Common Symptoms Fixed

• Dryer won't heat at all
• Dryer overheats and damages clothes
• Dryer shuts off before cycle completes
• Dryer runs but produces no heat
• Clothes take multiple cycles to dry
• Burning smell from dryer
• Dryer trips circuit breaker
• Thermal fuse keeps blowing

✓ Key Features & Specifications

• Part Number: WPW10116735
• Brand: Whirlpool OEM
• Part Type: High Limit Thermostat (Safety Thermostat)
• Temperature Rating: Typically 250°F-300°F cutoff (model dependent)
• Reset Type: Automatic reset when temperature drops
• Mounting: Attaches to dryer blower housing or heating element housing
• Warranty: Manufacturer's warranty included
• Condition: Brand new OEM part

✓ Buying Options

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): This is a genuine Whirlpool factory part, identical to the thermostat that came with your dryer when new. OEM parts offer guaranteed fit, quality, and reliability backed by Whirlpool. Safety components like thermostats should always be replaced with OEM parts to ensure proper operation and prevent fire hazards.

✓ Installation Tips

Difficulty Level: Moderate – Requires some mechanical skill and electrical knowledge

Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdriver, nut driver, multimeter (for testing), work gloves

Steps:

1. Unplug dryer from electrical outlet (CRITICAL SAFETY STEP)
2. Pull dryer away from wall for access
3. Remove dryer's front or rear panel (model dependent)
4. Locate the high limit thermostat on the blower housing or heating element housing
5. Take a photo of wire connections before disconnecting
6. Disconnect wire terminals from old thermostat
7. Remove mounting screw and remove old thermostat
8. Install new thermostat with mounting screw
9. Reconnect wire terminals exactly as photographed
10. Reinstall panels
11. Restore power and run a test cycle
12. Monitor first few cycles to ensure proper heating

Safety Note: ALWAYS unplug the dryer before working on electrical components. Electric dryers use 240V power which can be lethal. If you're not comfortable working with electrical components, hire a qualified technician.

✓ Compatible Models

This high limit thermostat fits many Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Kenmore, and Amana dryer models. Verify compatibility by checking your model number or comparing your existing thermostat part number. Common compatible series include Whirlpool Cabrio, Duet, and many top-load and front-load dryer models.

✓ Why Choose XPart Supply

• 30+ years experience in appliance parts
• Expert phone support from real technicians
• Fast shipping across Canada
• Guaranteed fit or your money back
• Canadian-owned and operated business

✓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if my high limit thermostat is bad?
A: Test it with a multimeter for continuity. With the dryer unplugged and the thermostat at room temperature, it should show continuity (closed circuit). If there's no continuity at room temperature, the thermostat has failed in the open position and needs replacement. If your dryer won't heat and you've ruled out the heating element and thermal fuse, the high limit thermostat is likely the culprit.

Q: What's the difference between a high limit thermostat and a thermal fuse?
A: A high limit thermostat is a safety device that automatically resets when temperature drops, cycling on and off to prevent overheating. A thermal fuse is a one-time safety device that blows permanently when overheated and must be replaced. Both protect against overheating, but the thermostat is reusable while the fuse is not.

Q: Why does my high limit thermostat keep failing?
A: Repeated thermostat failure indicates an underlying problem causing overheating, such as a clogged vent system, restricted airflow, failed blower motor, or faulty cycling thermostat. Clean your dryer vent thoroughly and inspect the blower and airflow system before replacing the thermostat again.

Q: Can I bypass the high limit thermostat to get my dryer working?
A: Never bypass safety thermostats. They prevent fires and equipment damage. Operating a dryer without a functioning high limit thermostat is extremely dangerous and could result in fire, property damage, or injury.

Q: Is this repair safe for a DIYer or should I hire a technician?
A: This repair requires working with electrical components in a 240V appliance. If you have experience with electrical work, are comfortable following safety procedures (unplugging the dryer), and can use a multimeter to test components, this is a manageable DIY repair. However, if you're not confident working with high voltage or electrical components, we strongly recommend hiring a qualified appliance technician.