Just blew $40 on a 'universal' dryer thermal fuse that didn't fit a single model in my van

The packaging said it worked for 12 brands, but the terminals were off by a quarter inch on everything I tried. Anyone have a go-to brand for these that's actually reliable?

3 comments

3 Comments

lucas1592mo ago

Ever notice how "universal" is the biggest lie in retail? I swear they just slap that label on whatever part is sitting around.

noah_black2mo ago

Look at the word "universal" in the context of power adapters. They sell you a brick with a dozen different tips, claiming it fits everything, but the actual voltage or amperage is wrong for half your devices. It might physically plug in, but it either charges at a snail's pace or fries your gear. That label just means the shape is common, not that the power output is safe or right.

sean_dixon961mo ago

Read an article about cheap universal chargers. They said the voltage can swing way out of spec. Like a 5V adapter might actually push 7 volts when it's cheaply made. That's how you end up with a dead phone battery or a hot power brick. The label is just for the plug shape, not a promise it works right.