Dryer stopped working
Common reasons your dryer stopped working
The most common reasons your dryer stopped working are an open heating element, faulty thermal fuse or a worn drum bearing.
63% of the time it's the
Heating Element
17% of the time it's the
Thermal Fuse
10% of the time it's the
Drum Bearing
10% 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.
Heating Element Replacement
If your dryer has ceased operation, it's possible that an open heating element is to blame. An open, or broken, heating element might come into contact with metal inside the dryer cabinet, leading to the tripping of the circuit breaker. If you reset the tripped breaker and it immediately trips again when you initiate a heated cycle, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect the dryer. The technician will replace the heating element if it's found to be open.
Thermal Fuse Replacement
If your dryer fails to start, a faulty or blown thermal fuse could be the culprit. Positioned on the blower housing, the thermal fuse acts as a safety measure, tripping when the dryer reaches excessive heat levels. In most electric dryers, this results in the motor being disabled. Similarly, in certain gas dryers, a blown thermal fuse halts motor operation. A common cause of overheating and subsequent thermal fuse failure is a clogged exhaust vent system. If your dryer isn't functioning, it's advisable to request a visit from a Sears Home Services Technician, who will replace the blown thermal fuse if necessary.
Drum Bearing Replacement
When the dryer ceases to operate, a worn drum bearing may be to blame, causing the drive motor to overheat. Friction from this worn part can lead to overheating, triggering the motor's overload protection mechanism. Furthermore, a worn drum bearing can impede the drum and blower wheel's rotation, potentially causing the thermal fuse to blow. If your dryer malfunctions, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect it. They'll assess the condition of the drum bearing and replace it if it's worn.
What to expect when you experience a dryer stopped working issue
How can I fix a dryer that stopped working?
Addressing most issues where the dryer has stopped working typically entails replacing components such as the heating element, thermal fuse, or drum bearing. However, given the variety of potential causes, 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 has stopped working
If your dryer has ceased to function, there could be various reasons behind it. To avoid unnecessary part replacements, we suggest having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the root cause of the issue. Our technicians possess expertise in diagnosing all sorts of dryer malfunctions.
What to consider with a dryer stopped working diagnosis
Understanding and diagnosing modern appliances without adequate knowledge and training can pose challenges. Attempting to address issues without employing proper diagnostic methods may result in replacing parts based on guesswork. Over the past decade, appliances have evolved significantly, with many incorporating intricate electronic components that are challenging to assess. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming progressively more complex.
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Dryer service
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.
Terry F, Oklahoma City, OK
Repair Dryer Resources
Learn 5 DIY tips to fix your dryer when it is not heating.
Learn how an electric dryer works to get your clothes dry.
Learn how steam dryers work and how to keep them working smoothly.
Learn how a gas dryer works so you can use it safely and efficiently.
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.
A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
A furnace is a major appliance that heats air distributed throughout a home or building via a ductwork system.
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 not working
- Dryer not turning on
- Dryer not starting
- 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 stopped working
- Whirlpool dryer stopped working
- Samsung dryer stopped working
- Roper dryer stopped working
- Maytag dryer stopped working
- Magic Chef dryer stopped working
- LG dryer stopped working
- Kenmore Elite dryer stopped working
- Kenmore dryer stopped working
- GE dryer stopped working
- Fisher & Paykel dryer stopped working
- Electrolux dryer stopped working
- Crosley dryer stopped working
- Amana dryer stopped working