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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Dryer
  4. Dryer not starting

Whirlpool dryer not starting

Common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not starting

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not starting are a faulty thermal fuse, failed door switch or a broken drum belt.

  • 52%

    52% of the time it's the
    Thermal Fuse

  • 27%

    27% of the time it's the
    Door Switch

  • 9%

    9% of the time it's the
    Drum Belt

  • 12%

    12% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool dryer

    Thermal Fuse Replacement

    A faulty or blown thermal fuse can keep the dryer from starting. The thermal fuse is a safety device mounted on the blower housing that trips when the dryer overheats. The thermal fuse in most electric dryers prevents the motor from running. In some gas dryers, a blown thermal fuse will also prevent the motor from running. A clogged exhaust vent system often causes the dryer to overheat and the thermal fuse to blow. When the dryer won’t run, have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and fix the dryer. The technician will replace the thermal fuse if it’s blown.


    Door Switch Replacement

    If your dryer is not starting, a failed door switch could be causing the problem. The door switch detects when the dryer door is shut. A failed door switch won’t sense whether the door is closed properly. The dryer won’t start even through the door is closed when the door switch is bad. Have a Sears Home Services Technician check your dryer when it won’t start. The technician will replace the door switch if it is defective.

    Drum Belt Replacement

    When your dryer won’t start a cycle, a broken drum belt could be causing the problem. The drum belt wraps around the dryer drum and connects to the drive motor pulley. The drive motor rotates the belt to spin the drum. Over time, the drum belt becomes worn and can break. A switch on the idler pulley prevents the motor from starting when it senses that the drive belt is broken. When the dryer won’t start, have a Sears Home Services Technician check your dryer and replace the drum belt if it’s broken.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dryer not starting issue

    How is the not starting problem fixed?

    Correcting most not starting problems usually involves replacing the thermal fuse, door switch or drum belt. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a dryer that is not starting

    When the dryer is not starting it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

    What to look out for with a dryer not starting diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dryer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

    Troubleshooting Different Whirlpool Dryer Models That Are Not Starting

    When your Whirlpool dryer won't start, it can be incredibly frustrating. Understanding the specific issues related to different models can help diagnose and potentially resolve the problem more efficiently. Below, we'll cover common issues and solutions for the Whirlpool Cabrio, Duet, and Thin Twin dryer models.

    Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Not Starting

    The Whirlpool Cabrio dryer is a popular model known for its advanced features, but like any appliance, it can experience issues that prevent it from starting. Common reasons for a Whirlpool Cabrio dryer not starting include problems with the thermal fuse, door switch, or control board.

    For a Whirlpool Cabrio dryer sensing but not starting, it’s often due to a faulty door switch or thermal fuse. The door switch must engage properly for the dryer to operate. If the dryer senses the door is open, it will not start. Additionally, a blown thermal fuse will interrupt the power flow, causing the dryer to remain unresponsive. Regular maintenance, including checking these components, can prevent issues where the Whirlpool Cabrio dryer won’t start.

    Whirlpool Duet Dryer Won’t Start

    The Whirlpool Duet dryer is another reliable model, but it’s not immune to start-up issues. If your Whirlpool Duet dryer won’t start, it could be due to problems with the thermal fuse, door switch, or control panel.

    A Whirlpool Duet dryer sensing but not starting problem indicates an issue with the moisture sensor or control board. This model features advanced sensors that can sometimes malfunction, leading to the dryer not starting. Another potential problem could be a defective thermal fuse, which is a safety device designed to protect the dryer from overheating. For Whirlpool Duet steam dryer not starting issues, it might be related to the steam function's additional components, such as the water inlet valve or steam generator.

    Whirlpool Thin Twin Dryer Not Starting

    The Whirlpool Thin Twin dryer is designed for smaller spaces but can still encounter start-up issues similar to other models. For a Whirlpool Thin Twin dryer not starting issue, it’s essential to check the usual suspects: the thermal fuse, door switch, and control board.

    In some cases, the Whirlpool dryer does not start due to a problem with the dryer’s power supply. Ensure that the dryer is properly plugged in and that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If the dryer is receiving power but still won’t start, it’s time to check the thermal fuse and door switch. A Whirlpool dryer sensing but won’t start issue often points to a problem with these components. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent these problems from occurring.

    By understanding the specific issues and solutions for different Whirlpool dryer models, you can more effectively troubleshoot and resolve start-up problems. If you're unable to diagnose or fix the issue, consider reaching out to a professional technician for assistance. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will keep your Whirlpool dryer running smoothly for years to come.

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    Daniel provided excellent service and was very quick to perform the repair. I have nothing good to say about the warranty program and the LACK of customer service and the inability to contact a human being to talk.


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    Excellent technician Very thorough and detail oriented Would be happy to have him work on appliances again He managed to find our ranch headquarters in the middle of the desert


    Rose W, Las Cruces, NM

    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

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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.

    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.

    Additional possible Whirlpool dryer symptoms you may experience