Hotpoint Washer Dryer WDD960 Problems

If you own a Hotpoint WDD960 washer dryer and have recently encountered issues with the dryer function, you’re not alone. Many users have faced a common problem where the dryer no longer dries their laundry, leaving it cold and wet. In this article, we’ll explore this issue and provide possible solutions based on experiences shared within the Hotpoint owner community.

Identifying the Culprit

One user described their situation, where the dryer seemed to go through the motions but failed to deliver warm, dry clothes. To investigate the problem, they removed the washer’s lid and examined what appeared to be two thermostats located on top of what seemed to be the dryer unit. Here’s what they discovered:

Understanding the Components

• Open Circuit Thermostat: On the far right side, they found a device connected by a brown (which appears pink in photos) wire. This device exhibited an open circuit, indicating a potential issue.
• Short Circuit Device: Positioned in the middle and attached to a blue wire, this device was found to be short circuit, which may or may not have been a sign of a problem.

Both devices appeared to be secured in place by bolts and featured a single center terminal that utilized the dryer’s frame as a ground.

Seeking Assistance

The user sought help and clarification from the community, hoping to confirm their findings. They questioned whether these were indeed thermostats and where replacements could be obtained. Additionally, they speculated that the blue wires might be connected to the heating element but remained uncertain about the exact issue.

Safety and Recommendations

Another community member cautioned against bypassing safety devices like the thermostat (or toc). While an open circuit thermostat could potentially be the cause of the drying issue, these safety devices are designed to trip only if another fault leads to overheating. Thus, it’s essential not to bypass this crucial safety feature. They suggested attempting a thermostat replacement, as sometimes these components fail without an apparent reason. However, if the problem persists, further investigation would be necessary.

The Root Cause Unveiled

After a more thorough inspection, it was revealed that the components initially believed to be thermostats were, in fact, connections to the heating element. The heating element itself had an open circuit, which provided a clear explanation for the dryer’s failure to produce heat. The user promptly ordered a replacement heating element.

Maintenance Matters

In addition to addressing the heating element issue, the user also emphasized the importance of regular maintenance. They discovered that the fan within the dryer unit was clogged with dust and fluff, which might have contributed to the heating element overheating. Cleaning the fan can help prevent such issues.

Furthermore, they noted that a filter located at the back of the machine tended to become blocked with fluff and debris over time. To address this, they recommended removing the dryer unit to access and clean the filter. Ideally, this maintenance task should be performed approximately every two years to ensure proper airflow through the dryer and prevent the heating element from overheating.

In conclusion, if you’re facing problems with your Hotpoint washer dryer, such as a malfunctioning dryer, consider the information shared by this community. It may help you identify the root cause of the issue and guide you toward the necessary steps for repair and maintenance, ultimately ensuring the efficient operation of your appliance.