How to Fix a Dryer That Stopped Working?
Technically Reviewed by Fix Appliances CA Editorial Contributors on Mar 03, 2025 | Written by Olga Larina
What causes a clothes dryer not to work, and how to fix the problem? A clothes dryer not working can be caused by several problems. It may be an electrical issue if the dryer won’t start but has power or suddenly stops working. On the other hand, if the dryer stops running mid-cycle, this could be a mechanical issue. In any case, when a drying stops running, we first recommend diagnosing the causes.
Make sure the appliance is plugged in correctly before checking the circuit breaker for any possible problems. The door switch, thermal fuse, and start switch should then all be carefully inspected to rule out any possible issues. To reduce the chance of overheating, the exhaust vent and lint filter must be cleaned on a regular basis. It might be wise to think about replacing these parts if you see any indications of drive belt wear or if the motor is not operating properly. In the case when doubts appear throughout the troubleshooting procedure, consulting an expert is advised.
Read our article to learn more about the issue and what you can do about it.
5 Possible Reasons Why Your Clothes Dryer Stopped Working
Reason 1: No Power Supply
A dryer needs to be plugged in to run. Check the outlet first and ensure the dryer is securely plugged in. Also, if an electric dryer stopped working, it could be because of outlet damage or a tripped fuse. Burn marks around the outlet could also indicate that the dryer stopped working because it lacked power.
Reason 2: No Gas Supply
If you are running a gas-powered dryer, ensure that the gas heats up, is connected securely, and works. Without the gas, a dryer will suddenly stop working or will not heat up.
Reason 3: Faulty Dryer Heating Element
If the dryer starts but won’t heat up, this problem probably has to do with a faulty or broken heating element. The heating element is what makes the dryer get warm and is connected to a fuse that could be blown. The wiring to the heating element might also be loose or bad.
Reason 4: Door Switch Problems
The door to a dryer needs to be closed for it to start. A switch on the door lets the dryer know that the door has been closed. If that switch is faulty or broken, the dryer will not start.
Reason 5: Blown Thermal Fuse
A thermal fuse is a component of the dryer that regulates the heat of the dryer. If it is broken, it will not be able to tell the dryer that it is getting too hot. A blown thermal fuse will not allow the dryer to start until it is replaced.
Actions You Can Take If Your Clothes Dryer Is Not Working
It can be a hassle when you can’t dry your clothes. But, so can trying to fix the cause of the problem. We have listed the easiest solutions on how to address the causes of a dryer not working.
Step 1: Check the Power Supply
Before working on the power supply of a dryer, make sure to go and turn off all power from the fuse box in your home. The professionals at Spark Service PRO recommend using rubber gloves and tools.
Using a multimeter, you can check the outlet’s voltage for a dryer. Two of the outlet hole combinations should read 120 volts, and one should read 240 volts. You may need to replace the outlet if any of these combinations are off.
You may also need to replace the power cord on the back of the dryer. This can be quickly done by buying a replacement, unscrewing the dryer’s back panel, disconnecting the old cord, and installing the new one.
Step 2: Check the Gas Supply
If there is no gas supply to your home, you must contact the local utility. If the gas supply to the home is fine but not to the dryer, ensure the valve is open. If the valve is open and the dryer is still not getting a gas supply, the problem may lie in the piping, which would require a specialist like those at Spark Service PRO.
Step 3: Test the Heating Element
If the heating element on the dryer is broken, the dryer will run but not heat up. The heating element can be accessed by unscrewing the dryer’s back panel. Using a multimeter, you can check the connections in the heating element, which should be a number. If you receive an infinite reading, the heating element is broken and needs replacement.
Step 4: Test the Door Switch
The door switch has a wire running from it to the computer chipboard on the dryer. If the wire is tripped, the dryer will not start. Check to see if the wire is disconnected. Then, use the multimeter and check for continuity. The switch may need to be replaced.
Step 5: Replace The Thermal Fuse
There are several fuses in the dryer that regulate heat. The thermal fuse can be tested by gaining access through the back of the dryer panel. Check the connections to the fuses with a multimeter for continuity. If you get an infinite reading on any connections, the fuse is blown and needs replacement.
Why Choosing Spark Service PRO CA Will Make Your Dryer Fixed
If your dryer stops running, it can cause immense stress and anxiety. We can offer solutions on how to diagnose issues and fix the problem of a dryer that has stopped working.
Our authorized appliance repair technician has seen it all and knows how to access the vital parts of your dryer. Removing the panels of the dryer and testing the components of a dryer takes technical tools and knowledge that the professionals at Spark Service PRO can take care of quickly the first time. Our technicians are trained and TSSA certified through a process that prepares them for any challenge or job with appliance repair in Toronto and the GTA surrounding areas.
The reasons why you should choose Spark Service PRO:
- Friendly service providers who work on your schedule
- Same-day appliance repair service near me area
- Comprehensive support for all appliances by TSSA-certified technicians
- Professional quality parts are used to maintain a dryer running problem-free for years to come
To get more information or schedule a visit from one of our technicians to fix your faulty appliance, fill out a contact form or call us!
Date of page creation: May 20, 2020
Page update date: March 03, 2025
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