How to Fix Gas valve solenoid failure on LG DLGX5501V (Gas)

Gas valve solenoid failure

This step-by-step repair guide walks you through fixing gas valve solenoid failure on your LG DLGX5501V (Gas). With the right tools and parts, most homeowners can complete this repair in 1–2 hours and avoid a costly service call.

Part of our Top 20 Dryer Models & Common Repair Issues Guide. Browse all dryer repair guides for related models and issues.

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Common Symptoms & Causes

The following symptoms on your LG DLGX5501V suggest the gas valve solenoid has failed and is preventing proper ignition or heating.

The dryer runs but produces no heat after the drum begins spinning
You hear the igniter glow but the burner never lights or shuts off immediately
The dryer repeatedly attempts ignition in short cycles without sustaining a flame
Clothes remain completely cold and damp after a full drying cycle

This issue is typically caused by worn solenoid coils inside the gas valve assembly that weaken over time, losing the magnetic force needed to open the valve and allow gas flow to the burner.

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Safety First

Unplug the dryer from the power outlet before starting any repair — never work on a live appliance.
Wear work gloves when handling metal brackets, sheet metal edges, or sharp components.
Take photos with your phone before disconnecting any wiring harnesses or connectors.
Work in a well-lit area with enough floor space to lay removed panels flat.

Tools & Parts Needed

Essential Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
¼” nut driver
Putty knife
Multimeter
Work gloves

Replacement Parts

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Step 1

Before touching any internal components, unplug the dryer from the wall outlet and close the manual gas shutoff valve on the supply line behind the unit — skipping either step risks electric shock or gas exposure. Let the dryer sit unplugged for at least 5 minutes to allow any residual charge in the capacitors to dissipate. Note that the LG DLGX5501V uses an electronic glow-bar igniter with no standing pilot light, so there is no pilot flame to extinguish before you begin.

Step 2

Remove the rear panel by backing out the five ¼-inch hex screws and setting the panel aside — this exposes the full burner and gas valve assembly. Locate the gas valve, identifiable as a steel housing mounted along the burner tube with two or three cylindrical solenoid coils clipped onto the valve body. These solenoids are the most common failure point on this model: when a coil burns out, it stays closed and starves the burner of gas even when the igniter glows correctly.

Step 3

Disconnect the wire leads from each solenoid coil individually and test each one on the Rx1 ohms setting of your multimeter to determine which coil has failed. The primary coil should read approximately 1,300 ohms; the secondary coils should read between 90 and 600 ohms — a reading of infinite resistance (open circuit) on any coil confirms it is burned out and must be replaced. The coils are sold as a kit and snap directly off and onto the valve body, so you replace only the coils, not the entire valve, which keeps parts cost low.

Step 4

While the burner area is accessible, test the igniter — the glow bar mounted just below the burner tube — because a weak igniter is the second most common cause of gas valve solenoid symptoms. Set your multimeter to Rx1 and probe the igniter terminals; a healthy igniter reads 50 to 400 ohms, while a reading above 600 ohms or an open circuit means the igniter can no longer reach the threshold temperature required to signal the solenoid coils to open. Pro tip: even if the igniter visually glows during a cycle, a high resistance reading means it glows too dimly and too slowly to trip the solenoids, mimicking a solenoid failure.

Step 5

Test the radiant flame sensor — the small bi-metal safety device clipped near the igniter — because a failed sensor will also prevent the solenoids from opening regardless of coil or igniter condition. At room temperature the sensor contacts should be closed, so set your multimeter to Rx1 and confirm you get a continuity reading near zero ohms; an open reading at room temperature means the sensor has tripped permanently and needs to be replaced. This sensor is a thermal fuse-style device designed to fail safe, so never bypass it or reuse a sensor that has already opened.

Step 6

Close the manual gas shutoff valve before reassembling the rear panel so gas cannot flow while you are securing the screws. Once the panel is back in place with all five screws tightened, reopen the gas shutoff valve, plug the dryer in, and run a full heated cycle. Watch or listen for the burner to ignite within the first two to three minutes of the heat cycle — a successful ignition with a steady flame confirms the solenoids, igniter, and sensor are all functioning correctly; if the burner still fails to light, recheck your solenoid resistance readings and verify all wire connectors are fully seated.

Where to Buy Replacement Parts

Find genuine OEM and aftermarket replacement parts for your LG DLGX5501V (Gas) on Amazon:

When to Call a Professional

If the issue persists after completing all steps above, the problem may involve the sealed refrigerant system, a failed main control board, or wiring that requires specialized diagnostic equipment. Contact a licensed appliance technician — attempting sealed-system repairs without EPA 608 certification is illegal and unsafe.

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How Much Does This Repair Cost?

Replacing a gas valve solenoid on the LG DLGX5501V yourself typically costs between $35–$80 for the replacement part. A professional service call for this repair usually runs $150–$300, including labor and parts. Tackling this repair DIY-style can save you $100–$220 or more, making it a worthwhile fix for confident home repair enthusiasts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the gas valve solenoid has failed on my LG DLGX5501V?

The most common signs are a dryer that runs but produces no heat, or a burner that ignites briefly then shuts off. You may also hear clicking without any flame igniting.

Is it safe to replace the gas valve solenoid myself?

Yes, as long as you disconnect the dryer from power and shut off the gas supply before starting. If you smell gas at any point, stop immediately and call a professional.

How much does a replacement gas valve solenoid kit cost for the LG DLGX5501V?

Replacement solenoid coil kits typically cost between $20 and $50 depending on the supplier. Purchasing an OEM kit ensures proper compatibility with your specific model.

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