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% 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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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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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.
Additional possible Whirlpool dryer symptoms you may experience
- Whirlpool dryer won't turn off
- Whirlpool dryer won't start cycle
- Whirlpool dryer won't heat up
- Whirlpool dryer will not come on
- Whirlpool dryer takes 3 cycles to dry
- Whirlpool dryer stopped working
- Whirlpool dryer start button not working
- Whirlpool dryer not working
- Whirlpool dryer not turning on
- Whirlpool dryer not tumbling
- Whirlpool dryer not spinning
- Whirlpool dryer not heating
- Whirlpool dryer not drying clothes properly
- Whirlpool dryer not drying
- Whirlpool dryer noisy
- Whirlpool dryer no power
- Whirlpool dryer no heat
- Whirlpool dryer light not working
- Whirlpool dryer leaking water
- Whirlpool dryer isn't heating
- Whirlpool dryer duet model not running
- Whirlpool dryer drum roller replacement
- Whirlpool dryer door not closing
- Whirlpool dryer display not working
- Whirlpool dryer burning smell
These dryer brands may also experience not starting
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- Estate dryer not starting
- Electrolux dryer not starting
- Crosley dryer not starting
- Bosch dryer not starting
- Amana dryer not starting
- Admiral dryer not starting