Dryer displays E16, may run but gas burner does not ignite (gas models)
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Turn off gas supply and unplug the dryer before servicing. Gas leaks and ignition components can be hazardous.
Step-by-step checks:
- Verify gas supply: Ensure the gas shutoff valve to the dryer is fully open. Check that other gas appliances in the home are working properly.
- Observe ignition sequence: With panels in place but front access open (if possible), restore power and gas. Start a heat cycle and watch through the burner inspection port. You should see the igniter glow, then hear a click and see flame. If not, note what step fails.
- Test igniter: Unplug the dryer and access the burner assembly. Measure igniter resistance; an open circuit indicates a bad igniter that must be replaced.
- Gas valve coils: If the igniter glows but the flame does not light, test or replace the gas valve coils. Coils often fail intermittently when hot.
- Flame sensor: Clean the flame sensor with fine steel wool and test for continuity when cool. Replace if defective.
When to call a technician: If you smell gas, cannot identify the failed component, or are not comfortable working with gas, contact a qualified gas appliance technician immediately.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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