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.

How to replace a thermal fuse in an electric dryer

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.

How to replace a dryer door switch

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.

How to replace a dryer drum belt

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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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

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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.

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