Whirlpool WED4950HW0 Dryer Timer – Diagnosis & How to Replace It
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: The timer (selector/timer assembly) on your Whirlpool WED4950HW0 is the mechanical/electrical switch that advances the cycle and routes power to the motor, heater and other circuits. When it fails you can see symptoms such as the dryer not starting, running continuously, not advancing to the next cycle, or certain functions not working. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair steps: 1) Confirm the symptom and scope: note whether the dryer fails to start, runs but won’t heat, won’t advance through timed cycles, or stops at one point. This tells you whether the problem is likely the timer or another part (door switch, thermal fuse, motor, control board). 2) Safety first: Unplug the dryer and switch off the house circuit breaker for the dryer before opening panels. If you must test live circuits, only do so if you are comfortable and using proper insulated tools — otherwise call a pro. 3) Access the timer/console: a. Pull the dryer away from the wall and unplug it. Remove the lint screen and any screws behind it if present. On this model, you typically remove the top or console depending on year of manufacture. Remove the screws securing the console or top, tilt it up or pull forward to access the timer assembly on the control panel. b. Remove the selector knob (pull straight off; a small clip may need to be depressed) and the screws holding the timer to the console. 4) Visual inspection: a. Check the timer for burnt/melted plastic, corrosion on terminals, or loose connectors. b. Inspect wiring harnesses for burnt wires or melted insulation. 5) Basic multimeter checks (continuity / resistance): a. With power off and the timer still connected, use the meter to check continuity across the timer contacts per service manual pin-outs while rotating the timer shaft through cycles. You should see contacts make and break as the timer knob is moved. b. If you get no continuity where expected or intermittent continuity that changes when you slightly rock the shaft, the timer is likely failing. 6) Live voltage checks (only if competent and safe): a. Reassemble enough for a safe powered test or carefully back-probe the harness with the dryer plugged in and the door closed. Check for line voltage at the common feed terminal. If there is line voltage that doesn’t get routed to motor/heater terminals when the knob is set to those functions, the timer isn’t switching correctly. b. If the timer passes wiring and voltage checks, look next at thermal fuse, door switch, motor, and drive components. 7) Replace the timer if faulty: a. Order the correct replacement timer for your exact model/serial. (See parts list below for common OEM numbers — verify by model.) b. Unplug dryer and remove console/top as in step 3. Remove the timer knob and screws. Take a clear photo of the wiring harness and connector positions or label wires with tape. c. Disconnect wiring harness and remove the old timer. Install the new timer in the same orientation, reconnect wires to the same terminals, secure timer with screws, reinstall knob and console/top. d. Plug dryer back in, run a short test cycle to confirm the timer advances and the dryer operates correctly. 8) If replacement doesn’t fix it: a. Re-check other components (thermal fuse, cycling thermostat, moisture sensor, motor, door switch). Some modern Whirlpool dryers use an electronic control board — if yours has a board-mounted timer or electronic selector, the issue may be the main control board. Safety note: Always disconnect power before working on the dryer. If you are not comfortable performing voltage tests or rewiring, hire a qualified appliance technician. Live testing exposes you to lethal voltages.
Common Symptoms
Dryer won't start or won't advance cycles; dryer runs continuously or won’t stop at the end of a cycle; certain cycle functions (e.g., timed dry or delicate) don't power; burned smell or visible scorching at timer terminals.
Common Causes
- Worn or damaged internal contacts or gears inside the timer
- Burned or loose timer terminals/wiring from arcing or overload
- Faulty main control board or other components causing similar symptoms (misdiagnosed as timer)
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
If the timer makes no click/advance when the dryer is running but the motor and heater get power, the mechanical contacts inside the timer are likely worn — confirm with a continuity check while turning the shaft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the timer myself on a WED4950HW0 dryer?
Yes — if you are comfortable with basic hand tools, labeling wires, and working safely around appliances. Replacing the timer generally involves removing the console, pulling off the knob, disconnecting the harness and swapping the assembly. Always unplug the dryer first. If unsure about electrical testing or wiring, hire a technician.
How much does a dryer timer cost and how long does replacement take?
A replacement timer assembly typically costs between $50 and $200 depending on OEM vs aftermarket and availability. Labor for a DIY replacement is about 30–60 minutes; a service call by a technician may add 1–2 hours of labor plus trip fees. Prices vary by region and part source.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
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 ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.