How To Repair The Thermal Fuse?

What is a thermal fuse, and how could it impact your appliance?

Thermal fuses are usually used as a security feature for main components in the appliances. You can find this kind of fuse in most modern and old-generation appliances: dryers, ovens, cooktops, dishwashers, and even sometimes in fridges.

Internal components feed on power, and any power fluctuation may cause the element to overheat or short. Thermal fuses look like a small round black cylinder with 2 terminal contacts. The fuse’s job is to pass electricity through and, in an emergency, break the contact. The body of the fuse is made of plastic because once the fuse overheats from power fluctuation or power surge, it melts the plastic inside and breaks the contact. So instead of your main component failing, which could cost a couple of hundreds of dollars, the fuse takes the hit.

Easiest actions to take for fast thermal fuse repair

Unfortunately, manufacturers keep increasing the prices of fuses every year, and some fuses may reach up to 80 -90$. Prices are becoming outrageous and make people question whether thermal fuses can be fixed instead of replaced. The answer is yes, and it can be fixed effortlessly.

You need a drill with a very tiny screwing bit. The bit size between 0.5mm – 1mm should do the job. Secure the fuse on a flat surface and drill perfectly the center of the plastic side between 2 wire terminals. Keep drilling until you come across two metal lines engraved inside the fuse.

The fuse will have continuity once two metal lines connect and work well. If it overheats again, it will break the contact again, and all you need to do is connect two lines inside it by pressing them back together.

Congratulations, you just created a resettable fuse and saved yourself at least 50$.

Author: Jacob Dillard

My name is Jacob Dillard, and I am the author of articles at Appliance Repair Expert. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by technology and spent much time reading different books and trying to repair my first CD player. Then, I graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in Applied Science and Engineering. In a year, I got my first job as a technician at an appliance repair company. After years of practice and working with professionals, I decided it was time to share my knowledge and experience here at Appliance Repair Expert. I want to help you understand everything related to appliance repair, maintenance and installation in the simplest way possible. It will be fun, believe me!