WGD5000DW1 Coil and Igniter Replacement – How to Diagnose & Replace the Gas Valve Coils and Igniter

Understanding the Problem

Summary: On a Whirlpool WGD5000DW1 gas dryer, the igniter and the gas valve solenoid coils (coil pack) work together to light the gas. If the dryer tumbles but produces no heat, or you see the igniter glow briefly then no flame, the igniter or the coil pack (or the safety components feeding them) is often at fault. Below are diagnostic steps and step-by-step replacement instructions. Diagnostic steps: 1. Safety first: Unplug the dryer from power and shut off the gas supply at the shutoff valve before any inspection or repair. Work in a well-ventilated area and avoid open flames. 2. Confirm symptom: Run a timed dry cycle and observe. Does the drum tumble but there is no heat? Do you hear a clicking or a faint hum when the dryer should ignite? Does the igniter glow at all? 3. Observe the igniter: With the dryer powered and gas on (for observation only — have a helper and keep the gas off until you’re ready to test), you can briefly test by plugging in the dryer and starting a cycle while the front access is open to watch the igniter. If the igniter glows but no flame appears, suspect the coil pack/gas valve solenoids. If the igniter never glows, suspect the igniter, thermal fuse, door switch, or control board/thermostat. 4. Electrical tests (use a multimeter): a) Igniter: Remove the igniter and check for continuity—igniters usually show low but measurable resistance (should not be open). b) Gas valve coils: Measure continuity across each solenoid coil/wiring harness—open coil = replace coil pack. c) Check the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat for continuity; a blown thermal fuse will prevent ignition voltage reaching the igniter/solenoids. 5. Watch for control signals: If the igniter and coils have continuity but don’t receive voltage during a start sequence, the problem can be the thermal fuse, cycling thermostat, flame sensor, door switch, or control board. Replacement steps (general Whirlpool-style front-access gas dryer procedure): 1. Prepare: Unplug dryer and shut off gas. Move dryer away from wall so you have full access. Have replacement parts ready and the correct tools (screwdrivers, nut drivers, multimeter, needle-nose pliers). 2. Remove the top and/or front access: Depending on the model, remove top panel screws or open top to release clips. For many WGD-series models you will remove two screws at the top of the back panel or at the front under the console, then lift the top and unsnap the console if required. Remove the lint screen housing and any screws securing the front panel. Support the front panel, disconnect the door switch wire harness, and set panel aside. 3. Remove the drum (if required): Loosen or remove the front bulkhead screws, then lift the drum out of the cabinet so you can access the burner assembly and gas valve at the rear of the drum opening. 4. Access the burner assembly: With the drum removed, you’ll see the burner tube/box on the right-rear (or lower) and the gas valve assembly mounted to it. Disconnect the wiring harness from the igniter and from the gas valve coil plug. Take note (photo) of wire routing. Also disconnect any ground wires. 5. Replace the igniter: Remove the screws holding the igniter bracket in the burner housing, carefully remove the fragile igniter (do not touch the ceramic/glowing element), install the new igniter in the same orientation, and reconnect its harness. 6. Replace the coil pack: Remove the screws holding the gas valve assembly or coil cover, extract the old coil pack (three coils on many Whirlpool valves), install the new coil pack and secure it per the kit instructions. Reconnect the harness. 7. Reassemble: Reinstall drum, front panel, door switch connector, top/console, and any removed panels. Restore the lint filter housing and screws. 8. Test for leaks & operation: Turn on the gas supply and check all gas fittings you disturbed with a soapy water solution for leaks (no bubbles). Plug in the dryer and run a test cycle to confirm the igniter glows and the gas ignites. Observe multiple cycles to ensure reliable ignition. 9. If it still doesn’t light: Re-check the thermal fuse, flame sensor/thermostats, wiring harness contacts, and control board voltage to the coils/igniter during start sequence. Final safety note: Always turn off and disconnect power and gas before working on a gas dryer. If you smell gas during testing at any time, stop, ventilate, and call a qualified technician. If you are uncomfortable working around gas lines or controls, hire a licensed appliance or HVAC technician.

Common Symptoms

Dryer tumbles but produces no heat; igniter glows then goes out with no flame; clicking/humming during ignition attempt; complete no-heat condition with no igniter glow.

Common Causes

• Failed igniter element (open circuit or cracked element)
• Worn or open gas valve solenoid coils (coil pack)
• Blown thermal fuse, faulty thermostat or flame sensor preventing ignition

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

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Frequently Asked Questions