This video will show how I disassembled a Life Smart Heater, model number LS-PP1800-6WCH. The heater would run for a short time and then totally shut off, no power light observed. Let the heater cool for 10 to 20 minutes, plug the heater back in to the wall outlet and the heater would run again for a short time and then shut off. Click on “Show More” below for updates.
The thermostat KSD301 16/125 120 (safety switch) appeared to be the defective component.
Update November 11, 2014:
I was able to get a KSD301 part on EBay (China) and the heater is now working great. Such a simple part almost caused a ~$150 heater to go in a recycled/landfill.
I had problems finding an exact KSD301 part on EBay. The KSD301 part that I was trying to replace had a symbol that looked like a UL (Underwriters Laboratory) approval symbol on it. Most of the EBay KSD301 parts had a CQC symbol which I believe stands for China Quality Certification. I was not able to find a symbol or identification who is the actual Chinese manufacture on the part. Also the KSD301 part that I purchased on EBay was 250 V, 10A, 120 C. I found some Chinese specifications for a KSD301 which were specified to work at 250V, 10A and also 125V, 16A. BTW, I also needed a NC (Normally Closed) KSD301 part. Another issue with the EBay KSD301 part was the circular thermostat sensor floated up and down in the mechanical attachment ring (the 2 screw hole ring). The EBay KSD301 required me to attach the thermostat flush against the metal surface. I put a thin metal plate over the thermostat hole on the heater box and then mounted the KSD301 EBay sensor to this plate. I drilled 2 holes in this metal plate which aligned with the existing thermostat screw holes.
I did verify the EBay KSD301 part with an Ohm meter, a hair dryer and an oven thermometer. Since this is a safety switch, it is nice to know that the EBay Chinese part actually works.
I was not totally comfortable with the KSD301 part I found on EBay but maybe someone can comment on a better KSD301 part to use.
Update December 6, 2014:
Just be aware there is risk using EBay parts for safety thermostat switches. They may not meet the same safety requirements as the original part. Morgan Ali commented “Hello you can get replacement limit switches through lifesmart 18664842066 as long as that model is not on the discontinued list they can sell you replacement parts no need to look for a match elsewhere” This is probably the best option with the lowest safety risk.
Note: Wood (dry) has a combustion temperature around 450 F or 232 C. If you understand the risk and still like to try an EBay thermostat switch, search “10pcs KSD301 Bimetal disc thermostat 120°C NC Temperature Switch Solid Collar” $10.99 US and free ePacket from China. The picture shows the parts stamped with 65 which is incorrect for the EBay description. Solid collar, NC for normally closed and 120 for 120 C is important in the label. The EBay KSD301 part that I found had a floating collar that required me to do an additional mechanical modification to the heater before I could use it.
Post time: Jul-07-2017