Dryer not starting
Common reasons your dryer not starting
The most common reasons your dryer is not starting are a faulty thermal fuse, failed door switch or a broken drum belt.
52% of the time it's the
Thermal Fuse
27% of the time it's the
Door Switch
9% of the time it's the
Drum Belt
12% of the time it's the
Something else
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Common dryer repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dryer parts may fix your problem.
Thermal Fuse Replacement
A defective or blown thermal fuse may prevent the dryer from initiating its cycle. Positioned on the blower housing, the thermal fuse is a protective device that triggers when the dryer becomes too hot. In most electric dryers, this fuse stops the motor from operating. Similarly, in some gas dryers, a blown thermal fuse halts motor function. A common cause of overheating is a clogged exhaust vent system. If the dryer fails to start, arrange for a Sears Home Services Technician to inspect and repair it. If the thermal fuse is faulty, the technician will replace it.
Door Switch Replacement
If your dryer refuses to start, a malfunctioning door switch might be to blame. Responsible for detecting when the dryer door is closed, the door switch ensures proper operation. If the door switch fails, it won't register whether the door is shut, preventing the dryer from starting even when the door is closed. In such cases, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect your dryer. If the door switch is found to be defective, the technician will replace it accordingly.
Drum Belt Replacement
If your dryer fails to initiate a cycle, a faulty drum belt might be the culprit. The drum belt loops around the dryer drum and links to the drive motor pulley, enabling the motor to rotate the belt and spin the drum. With time, the drum belt can wear out and eventually snap. A safety feature on the idler pulley prevents the motor from engaging when it detects a broken drive belt. If your dryer exhibits this issue, it's advisable to schedule a check-up with a Sears Home Services Technician. If a broken drum belt is identified as the problem, the technician will replace it promptly.
What to expect when you experience a dryer not starting issue
How do you fix a dryer not starting problem?
Addressing most issues with the dryer failing to start typically entails replacing components such as the thermal fuse, door switch, or drum belt. However, since various factors could be at play, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem effectively. An accurate diagnosis is vital for determining the cost of the repair.
Sears Home Services solutions for a dryer that is not starting
If your dryer is not starting, there could be various reasons for the issue. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we advise scheduling diagnostic tests with a Sears Home Services professional. Our technicians are skilled in identifying the underlying causes of all types of dryer failures.
What to examine with a dryer not starting diagnosis
Understanding and diagnosing modern appliances without adequate knowledge and training can pose challenges. Attempting to fix your dryer issue without employing proper diagnostic methods may result in merely replacing parts based on guesswork. In the last decade, appliances have evolved significantly, incorporating complex electronic components that are not easy to assess. As a result, DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming progressively more challenging.
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He was professional and polite. I didn't call back later that afternoon, although he replaced a thermostat the smart dry timer doesn't work as I was still having the same issue. The lady said she would email him and have him return. Never heard from anyone else.
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Glossary Terms
Natural gas is a fossil fuel used primarily for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It's a hydrocarbon gas mixture consisting mainly of methane, but it also contains smaller amounts of other hydrocarbons and sometimes sulfur compounds.
A gas dryer is a laundry appliance that uses natural gas or propane to generate heat to dry clothes.
The furnace heat exchanger is a crucial component designed to transfer heat from the combustion gases to the air blown through your furnace, ensuring that only clean, warm air circulates through your home.
A furnace limit switch is a safety device in a furnace that monitors the temperature of the air passing over the heat exchanger. It shuts off the burner if the air becomes too hot, preventing overheating and potential damage to the furnace or your home.
Common dryer symptoms to look out for
- Dryer won't turn off
- Dryer won't start cycle
- Dryer will not heat up
- Dryer vibrates
- Dryer stopped working
- Dryer not working
- Dryer not turning on
- Dryer not spinning
- Dryer not heating
- Dryer not drying clothes properly
- Dryer not drying
- Dryer not draining
- Dryer not cooling down
- Dryer noisy
- Dryer no sound
- Dryer no power
- Dryer no heat
- Dryer makes noise when tumbling
- Dryer light not working
- Dryer leaking water
- Dryer leaking from bottom
- Dryer leaking
- Dryer isn't heating
- Dryer gets hot but takes long time to dry
- Dryer drum roller replacement
- Dryer door not closing
- Dryer display not working
- Dryer burning smell
These dryer brands may also experience not starting
- Whirlpool dryer not starting
- Speed Queen dryer not starting
- Samsung dryer not starting
- Roper dryer not starting
- Maytag dryer not starting
- LG dryer not starting
- KitchenAid dryer not starting
- Kenmore Elite dryer not starting
- Kenmore dryer not starting
- Hotpoint dryer not starting
- GE Profile dryer not starting
- GE dryer not starting
- Frigidaire dryer not starting
- Estate dryer not starting
- Electrolux dryer not starting
- Crosley dryer not starting
- Bosch dryer not starting
- Amana dryer not starting
- Admiral dryer not starting