Question on multimeter readings

[noslornek]

Model Number: DV433ETGJWR/A1
Brand: Samsung
Age: 1-5 years

I have successfully disassembled the dryer to the point of getting the element out as well as the Thermostat, and the thermal fuse. When hooking up to the element the multimeter reading settles at 9.2. On the thermostat it reads zero. When I hook up to the thermal fuse nothing happens on the multimeter. What should I make of these 3 results? Thanks.

[denman]

The thermal fuse is blown.

I would also check that the heater element is not grounded.

If it is OK then I would also replace the hi-limit thermostat.
The thermal fuse is a backup (safety device) to the hi-limit.

Then you have to figure out why they failed.

[noslornek]

Thanks for the advice. I replaced the thermal fuse and the thermostat with new parts. The dryer now makes heat. I truly believe the problem was lint buildup in the lint screen/trap. I did not realize the screen needs to be opened up to truly clean it. The bottom of the screen was packed with lint. The dryer has not yet been run thru a cycle but I have a lot of confidence that it will now operate as it should.

[denman]

Sounds good.

When you do get a chance to run it I would recommend you try different heat settings just to check that the unit actually does regulate the heat.