Kenmore Dryer 796.91073310 — Troubleshooting & Parts Guide
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Understanding the Problem
This guide covers common problems owners see with Kenmore dryer model 796.91073310 (no start, not heating, long dry times, noisy or intermittent operation). Use the numbered diagnostic steps below to isolate the fault and practical repair steps to fix it. Always confirm whether your specific unit is electric or gas by checking the model tag or the power/gas hookup before starting work. 1) Safety & identification - Unplug the dryer or switch off the breaker. If gas, turn off the gas supply and disconnect per the manufacturer's instructions. Confirm the model tag (usually on the door opening or back panel) to identify gas vs electric and to confirm replacement parts. 2) Basic checks (quick, low-effort fixes) - Inspect and clean the lint trap and the full vent run (from dryer to outside). Restricted venting is the most common cause of long dry times and overheating. - Verify correct power: for electric dryers, confirm 240V at the outlet (two hot legs). For gas dryers, confirm the dryer has 120V and the gas supply valve is open. - Try a cycle with no load (air-dry) after cleaning the vent to see if performance improves. 3) If the dryer won't start - Check door switch: open/close door; listen for click. Test for continuity with a multimeter (door switch should show continuity when door is closed). Replace if faulty. - Check start switch and motor: verify the motor gets power on start. If you hear hum but drum doesn't turn, suspect a seized drum roller/idler or broken belt. - Inspect thermal cutouts/thermal fuse: many Kenmore dryers use a thermal fuse that will open if the dryer overheated. Locate thermal fuse (commonly on the blower housing) and test for continuity. Replace if open. 4) If the dryer runs but doesn't heat (electric) - Check the heating element assembly for continuity and visible breaks. Test the high-limit thermostat and thermal fuse for continuity. Replace any open components. - Verify voltage to the dryer: electric dryers need both hot legs; if only 120V is present, the element won't get full power. 5) If the dryer runs but doesn't heat (gas) - Confirm igniter glows on start. If no glow, test the igniter for continuity and check the gas valve coils/solenoids. A failed igniter or gas valve solenoids prevent burner opening. - Check the flame sensor/thermocouple and the thermal fuse/thermostats. Clean burner assembly and venting. 6) If the dryer is noisy or drum not turning smoothly - Inspect drum rollers/wheels, bearings, and rear/front drum support. Replace worn rollers and the idler pulley. Check belt for fraying or breakage. - If the motor is noisy, test motor bearings; replace motor assembly if seized or excessively noisy. 7) If the dryer runs but stops mid-cycle or trips breaker - Check for overheating from restricted venting. Test the cycling thermostat and thermal fuse. A failing motor or short in wiring can trip a breaker—inspect wiring harness for burn or fray and test motor current draw. 8) Access & replacement basics (general steps) - Remove power/gas. Unplug vent hose and move dryer away from wall. - Remove lint filter and top panel (usually held by clips or screws) to access control and door switch area. - For heating element (electric): access rear panel/drum by removing rear or front panel depending on design. Inspect element coils and housing. - For gas parts: remove front panel to access igniter, gas valve, and burner assembly. - Replace failed parts, reassemble in reverse order, reconnect power/gas, and test on an empty cycle. Safety note: Always disconnect electrical power (turn off the breaker) and shut off gas before working on the dryer. Do not bypass safety devices (thermal fuses, thermostats). If you are not comfortable working with electricity or gas, hire a qualified technician.
Common Symptoms
Won't start, won't heat, long drying cycles, loud rumbling or squealing noises, dryer stops mid-cycle, burning smell or smoke.
Common Causes
- Clogged lint trap or venting causing poor airflow and overheating
- Open thermal fuse or failed thermostat cutting heating or motor power
- Broken drum belt, worn rollers, or seized idler/motor causing no drum rotation or noise
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 ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Start by cleaning the lint trap and venting and then test the thermal fuse for continuity with a multimeter — a blown thermal fuse is a quick, common, and inexpensive fix for dryers that run but won't heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my Kenmore dryer 796.91073310 is gas or electric?
Check the model tag on the dryer (usually on the door opening or back panel). If there is a large gas line with a shutoff valve to the dryer, it's a gas dryer. If it plugs into a large 240V outlet (typically a 3- or 4-prong outlet), it's electric. The tag will also list supply requirements.
Can I replace parts on this Kenmore dryer myself, or do I need a technician?
Many common repairs (cleaning vent, replacing thermal fuse, door switch, belt, rollers) can be done by a competent DIYer with basic tools and a multimeter. Always disconnect power and gas first. For gas valve, ignition system repairs, or if you are uncomfortable working with gas or high voltage, hire a qualified appliance technician.
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