Troubleshooting Your Dryer

Kimbel does not install dryers. New dryers come with GFCI breakers that require special installation. Here are some common mistakes that may result in electrical faults. Avoid these mistakes to ensure your dryer operates safely:

There’s a band between Neutral Terminal & Ground Screw

Many dryers are preinstalled with a jumper band between the neutral terminal and ground screw. This band must be removed and wires must be reconnected to their proper terminal.

a diagram of a 3-wire dryer hook up and a 4-wire hook up.

Wires Are Disconnected or Loosely Connected

All wires must be fully secured to ensure proper electrical flow to the dryer unit. Make sure screws are properly tightened.

Wires not connected on Dryer Terminals

Wires Connected to the Wrong Terminals

The terminals and wires on a dryer are color coded. Make sure the correct wire is secured to the correct terminal.

Improperly Wired Dryer GFCI

How Should a Correctly Wired Appliance Look?

The neutral (white or yellow) wire should be connected to the center neutral terminal. The positive (black) and negative (red) wires should be secured to the left and right terminals. The (green) ground wire should be secured to the (green) ground screw.

a diagram of a 3-wire dryer hook up and a 4-wire hook up.
Improperly Wired Dryer GFCI

Resolving a Tripped Circuit Breaker

If dryer cord wiring is incorrect, the GFCI breaker (located within the electrical panel of garage) will automatically trip. The circuit will not be able to be reset while dryer cord is plugged into the outlet. If dryer cord is removed from the electrical outlet and the breaker stays in the on position, the problem will most likely be in the wiring to the appliance.

Circuit Breaker in the “Tripped” position

A tripped breaker will be in the middle position it will not be pushed to either the left or the right.

a diagram of a 3-wire dryer hook up and a 4-wire hook up.

Circuit Breaker in the “OFF” Position

To turn a a circuit breaker off, push all the way to the left (to the “OFF” position) until it clicks and stays in place. 

Wires not connected on Dryer Terminals

Circuit Breaker in the “ON” Position

To turn a circuit breaker on, push all the way to the left to the “OFF” position. Then push all the way to the right to the “ONN” position until it clicks and stays in place.

Improperly Wired Dryer GFCI

Warning

Improper handling of electrical circuits is dangerous and can cause injury or death. Kimbel Mechanical Associates accepts no liability for hazards associated with the handling of electrical circuits. Please consult a professional before attempting to repair or maintain your dryer or electrical system.

Under warranty?

We stand behind the quality of work we install by offering a one-year warranty on all installs. If you have a service issue under warranty, please fill out the following form, and a Warranty Coordinator or On-Call Dispatcher will return your call within 24 hours. If you have an emergency request, please contact us at 866.582.3899 and press “1” for Warranty. 

How can Kimbel help you?

Our 800 number is available to all 50 states:

866.582.3899