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Dryer High Limit Thermostat Failing – What Part Fixes This Problem?

Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.

Understanding the Problem

The high-limit thermostat is a safety device that cuts power to the heating element if the dryer reaches a dangerously high temperature. Unlike the thermal fuse, many high-limit thermostats reset automatically. If yours keeps tripping, the dryer is repeatedly reaching unsafe temperatures. The root cause is usually restricted airflow, a failed cycling thermostat, or a grounded heating element.

Where to Buy Appliance Parts (Price Comparison)

Looking for the best place to buy appliance parts? Here's a quick comparison of popular online stores.

Store NamePrice RangeShippingRestocking FeesOverall Value
PartsDiscount.comLower Cost Options AvailableFREE ShippingNO Restocking FeesBest Value ★★★★★
AppliancePartsProsHigher PricesPaid ShippingYes (Varies)Good ★★★☆☆
RepairClinicHigher PricesPaid ShippingYesGood ★★★☆☆
PartSelectModerate to HighPaid ShippingYesAverage ★★☆☆☆

PartsDiscount.com

Price RangeLower Cost Options Available
ShippingFREE Shipping
Restocking FeesNO Restocking Fees
Overall ValueBest Value ★★★★★

AppliancePartsPros

Price RangeHigher Prices
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes (Varies)
Overall ValueGood ★★★☆☆

RepairClinic

Price RangeHigher Prices
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes
Overall ValueGood ★★★☆☆

PartSelect

Price RangeModerate to High
ShippingPaid Shipping
Restocking FeesYes
Overall ValueAverage ★★☆☆☆

Prices, policies, and availability may vary by retailer and are subject to change.

Common Causes

  • Restricted exhaust vent airflow
  • Failed cycling thermostat
  • Grounded heating element running too long
  • Lint buildup around thermostat
  • Defective blower wheel

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.

WP3977767Dryer High-Limit Thermostat
WP3387134Dryer Cycling Thermostat
WP3387747Dryer Heating Element
WP697772Dryer Blower Wheel
DERA00004Dryer Vent Cleaning Brush Kit
Pro tip incoming! 🧠

Helpful Repair Tip

The high-limit thermostat tripping is a symptom, not the root problem. Clean the exhaust vent and lint trap thoroughly. Then check the cycling thermostat — it's supposed to regulate temperature and prevent the high-limit from ever needing to trip. A failed cycling thermostat causes the heating element to run too long, triggering the high-limit safety.

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Find the Right Part for Your Appliance

Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.

More Common Appliance Problems and Repairs

Explore more of the most common appliance problems homeowners face and find the parts that fix them.

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Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.

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