Amana Dryer: not stopping

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Amana dryer not stopping after completing its cycle? This common issue can leave your clothes damp and energy bills high. Causes may include a faulty timer, malfunctioning moisture sensor, or restricted airflow. Understanding these can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Amana support lists moisture sensor, door switch, timer and airflow issues as causes for dryers not turning off automatically

Possible Causes

Faulty timer or control board preventing normal cycle completion

How to Identify: Dryer never advances to off position on timed or automatic cycles; timer knob doesn’t move; continuous running

Part: Timer/Control board

Malfunctioning moisture sensor

How to Identify: Dryer keeps running on automatic cycles because sensor incorrectly reports clothes still moist; cleaning sensor bars may temporarily improve behavior

Part: Moisture sensor bars

Malfunctioning door switch

How to Identify: Dryer runs continuously even when door is opened (safety bypass; switch shows continuity before and after actuation

Part: Door switch

Restricted airflow/blockage causing heat buildup

How to Identify: Dryer runs longer than typical because airflow is restricted and sensors don’t detect proper conditions to finish cycle

Part: Vent system / blower components

Faulty thermostat or thermistor

How to Identify: Dryer runs excessively long or fails to reach conditions to switch off because it incorrectly senses temperature

Part: Cycling thermostat/thermistor

DIY Solutions

Clean lint filter and dryer vents

Easy 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum, dryer vent brush
  1. Remove and clean lint filter thoroughly
  2. Disconnect vent hose and clean lint buildup in hose and vent exit
  3. Use a dryer vent brush to clean ducts as far as accessible
  4. Reconnect vent and test dryer cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off when disconnecting vents

Clean moisture sensor bars

Easy 10–15 minutes
Tools Needed: soft cloth, mild detergent
  1. Locate moisture sensor bars inside drum near lint trap
  2. Wipe bars with soft cloth and mild detergent to remove residue
  3. Dry thoroughly and run a test cycle

Professional Repairs

Replace timer or control board

Estimated Cost: $100–$300+

Replace moisture sensor or thermostats

Estimated Cost: $50–$150

Replace door switch

Estimated Cost: $20–$80

When to Call a Professional

After basic airflow and sensor cleaning if dryer still won’t shut off
If control panel or electrical components need diagnosis
If electrical testing is required to confirm faulty thermostat or control board

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter: Airflow restriction and prolonged drying cycles
    Frequency: after every use
  • Clean dryer vent ducts: Blockages that could cause overheating and prolonged run times
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dryer not stopping?
Common causes include a faulty timer, malfunctioning moisture sensor, or restricted airflow.
How do I fix Amana Dryer not stopping myself?
Clean the lint filter and dryer vents, and wipe the moisture sensor bars to ensure proper function.
How much does it cost to fix not stopping?
Professional repair costs range from $20 to $300+, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not stopping?
If DIY solutions don't work or if you're unsure about repairs, it's best to consult a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty timer (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replace the faulty timer

    Success rate: 100.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Amana Dryer Doesn't Stop Running
  2. Amana Dryer doesn't stop when dry

Community Discussions

dryer continues spinning indefinitely

Replaced the faulty timer.

DIY View on Reddit →

Dryer doesn't stop when dry

Most likely the timer needs to be replaced.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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