Amana Dryer: not shutting off

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Amana dryer is not shutting off, it may continue to tumble or heat beyond the selected cycle. This issue can stem from several factors, including a faulty control board, restricted airflow, or a malfunctioning start switch. Understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

Control board, heating element, and thermistor failures are commonly d causes specifically for Amana dryers not shutting off

Possible Causes

Faulty control board/motor relay

How to Identify: Dryer runs continuously regardless of cycle; other controls unresponsive; tests with multimeter show no change

Part: Electronic control board (with motor relay)

Restricted airflow/vent/clogged lint system

How to Identify: Dryer overheats, long dry times, visible lint buildup; sensors misread cycle progress

Part: Dryer vent, blower wheel, lint trap

Malfunctioning start switch or stuck start button

How to Identify: Dryer runs even if start button feels stuck in; pressing repeatedly may change behavior

Part: Start switch/button

Faulty thermostat or thermistor

How to Identify: Dryer may run long and overheat; multimeter continuity test fails at room temp

Part: Thermostat/thermistor temperature sensor

Faulty moisture sensor

How to Identify: Automatic cycles donâ€™t end despite clothes dry; cleaning sensor might temporarily help

Part: Moisture sensor bars

DIY Solutions

Clean lint trap and vent

Easy 20â€“40 minutes

Tools Needed: vacuum with hose, dryer vent brush

Unplug dryer
Remove and clean lint filter
Use vacuum/brush to clear lint from lint trap and vent piping
Ensure vent outside is clear

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before cleaning

Check and free stuck start button

Moderate 10â€“30 minutes

Tools Needed: screwdriver

Unplug dryer
Remove control panel cover
Inspect start button mechanism for stuck position
Clean or replace button if needed

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before working inside control panel

Professional Repairs

Replace electronic control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350+

Replace thermostat/thermistor or moisture sensor

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

When to Call a Professional

Dryer still runs after DIY airflow and start switch checks

Electronic control board suspected

Electrical testing beyond basic multimeter checks

Preventive Maintenance

Clean lint trap: Airflow restriction and sensor misreads
Frequency: after every cycle
Inspect and clean vent annually: Clogs that can lead to continuous running and overheating
Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dryer not shutting off?

Common causes include a faulty control board, restricted airflow, or a stuck start switch.

How do I fix Amana Dryer not shutting off myself?

Clean the lint trap and vent, and check for a stuck start button.

How much does it cost to fix not shutting off?

Professional repairs can range from $150 to $350+ for the control board.

When should I call a technician for not shutting off?

Call a technician if DIY solutions don't work or if the issue seems complex.

References & Sources

Dryer wonâ€™t shut off?: General causes including start switch and control board Community

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Faulty door switch preventing the dryer from recognizing that the door is closed.
Malfunctioning timer that does not advance to the off position.
Defective control board that fails to send the shut-off signal.

User Suggested Solutions

Check the door switch for proper function. Open the dryer door and press the switch manually. If the dryer continues to run, replace the door switch.
Inspect the timer by setting it to different cycles. If it does not advance, replace the timer mechanism.
Test the control board for any visible damage or burnt components. If defective, replace the control board.