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

Whirlpool dryer not working

Common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not working

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not working are a defective timer, failed door switch or a broken drum belt.

  • 52%

    52% of the time it's the
    Timer

  • 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

    Timer Replacement

    When your dryer is not working, a defective timer could be causing the failure. The timer has internal cams that open and close switches or contacts to operate the various electro-mechanical components in the dryer, mainly the drive motor and the heating element. If the timer is defective, it won’t start the drive motor. When your dryer won’t start, have a Sears Home Services Technician examine the dryer and replace the timer if it’s defective.


    Door Switch Replacement

    If your dryer is not working, 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 is not working, 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 working issue

    How is the not working problem fixed?

    Correcting most not working problems usually involves replacing the timer, 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 working

    When the dryer is not working it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend scheduling a Whirlpool dryer repair with a Sears Home Services professional who can perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced in diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

    What to look out for with a dryer not working 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.

    Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Not Working

    Common Causes of a Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Not Working

    When your Whirlpool Cabrio dryer is not working, it can be due to several common issues. Understanding these can help you diagnose and potentially fix the problem.

    Timer Failure: One common reason your Whirlpool Cabrio dryer might not be working is a defective timer. The timer controls various electro-mechanical components in the dryer. If the timer is faulty, it won't start the dryer.

    Door Switch Malfunction: Another frequent issue is a failed door switch. This switch ensures the dryer door is closed properly. If it's defective, the dryer won't start because it won't detect the door being shut.

    Broken Drum Belt: A broken drum belt can also cause your Whirlpool Cabrio dryer to stop working. The drum belt wraps around the drum and connects to the drive motor. If the belt breaks, the drum won't spin, and the dryer won't start.

    Troubleshooting a Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Not Working

    If your Whirlpool Cabrio dryer is not working, here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem before calling a technician.

    Check the Timer: Inspect the timer for any signs of damage or wear. If the timer is not functioning correctly, it might need to be replaced.

    Inspect the Door Switch: Ensure the door switch is operational. You can test it by checking if the dryer senses the door being closed. If not, the switch may need replacement.

    Examine the Drum Belt: Look for any signs of wear or damage on the drum belt. If the belt is broken or worn out, it will need to be replaced to restore the dryer's functionality.

    When to Call a Professional for a Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Not Working

    While some issues can be fixed with basic troubleshooting, others may require professional intervention.

    Professional Diagnosis: If basic troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, it's best to call a professional technician. They can perform a thorough diagnosis to identify the root cause and ensure the correct repair is made.

    Avoid DIY Repairs: Modern dryers, including the Whirlpool Cabrio, are complex appliances. Attempting DIY repairs without proper knowledge and tools can lead to further damage. It's advisable to seek professional help to avoid unnecessary complications.

    What our customers say about us

    With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it

    Excellent service from Daniel

    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.


    Tammy M, Hilton, NY

    Satisfied customer

    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