How to Fix a Dryer That Won't Start: 5 Causes and Solutions

Dryer Won’t Start: Possible Reasons

When a dryer won’t start it can be very irritating. The first thing that you want to consider is if it is an electrical or mechanical problem. Below is a list of the main causes for a dryer that won’t start.

No Power to Dryer

All dryers need some form of electricity to run properly. The electrical power for a dryer that won’t run is located at the outlet or electrical box of fuses. When a dryer has no power being supplied to it you will not be able to see any lights on the dryer turn on or hear any noises.

No power to the dryer is an electrical issue that may be dangerous, so it is important to carefully inspect the dryer before attempting to repair.

Burnt-Out Thermal Fuse

One component of the dryer that is constantly overlooked is the thermal fuse. It is an internal part of the dryer that maintains a consistent and safe temperature for the dryer. If it is broken, it will not do its job to tell the dryer that it is overheating. A thermal fuse on a dryer that won’t start can be tested and fixed or replaced.

An indication that a fuse has blown is if the dryer won’t start but the light is on. Make sure to check the lights first for electrical continuity before considering burnt fuses.

Broken or Burnt-Out Dryer Heating Element

Some dryers have a fail-switch attached to them that activates if the heating element fuse is burnt out or overheated. You may hear beeping or a buzzing, but the dryer won’t start or run a cycle, even if it is getting electricity.

No Gas Supply

A gas powered dryer requires gas connected securely to it. If the flow of gas is limited or not working, the dryer won’t turn on. You will notice the gas as a noise at the intake valve and should be able to tell if the dryer is receiving any gas. If it is not connected securely and or working the dryer won’t work.

Broken Door Switch

When you close the door of your dryer, there is a switch which signals that it is safe for the dryer to turn on. If that door switch is broken or not working correctly, your dryer won’t start. A door switch that is faulty or broken can be diagnosed and fixed or replaced.

Dryer Won’t Start: Actions You Can Take

Being unable to dry your clothes is a hassle that no one should have to go through for long. Luckily there are actions you can take to fix your dryer at home.

Plug-in or Replace Power Cord

Safety is the number one concern when working on fixing the power supply to your dryer. For a faulty dryer, you will want to check the outlet and fuse box so eye protection, and rubber gloves are recommended.

If you notice burn marks or there is sparking coming from the outlet or fuse box, discontinue and call for professional help!

To check the outlet and fuse box, use a multimeter. The screws holding the fuse and the holes of the outlet should have two readings of both 120 volts and 240 volts. If you get no reading from one of those places, it may be time to replace the outlet or fuse.

It may be possible that you need to replace the power cord that runs from the outlet to the back of the dryer. A replacement power cord for a dryer that won’t start is easy to find and install. You simply have to unscrew the back panel, disconnect the old cord, and screw the new one in place.

Check Thermal Fuse for Continuity

The fuses are important to check with a multimeter in a dryer that won’t start. The one that regulates the overheating of the heating element and overall dryer function is the most important to check and see if it has burnt out.

Getting access to the thermal fuse is not easy. Follow the wires from the thermal component to the dryer panel and check for continuity there. Then check the connections of the thermal fuse itself for continuity. If either position is reading an infinity on the multimeter, the fuse is probably blown and should be replaced with the exact same part.

Clean or Replace Heating Element Fuse or Wires

The fail-switch attached to the heating element and the heating element itself have wires and connections that can be worn out, dirty, or burnt-out. To check the heating element of a dryer that won’t start, locate the large metal box heating element behind the back panel of the dryer.

First, try cleaning the connections of the heating element wires as these tend to have a build up of dust or lint. Then, use a multimeter to check for continuity of the wire connection to the heating element and where the wires connect to the main dryer panel. Infinite multimeter readings at any of these positions means the heating element and its wires need to be replaced with new parts.

Adjust Gas Supply Valve

The first thing about gas is that if you smell it as a leak, get out. If the gas is connected securely and safely and flowing to other parts of your home, but your unit still doesn’t work, you may be able to fix it.

For a dryer that doesn’t turn on, you may want to check the gas valve. The valve going into your dryer needs to be open. If the valve is open and the dryer is still not getting a gas supply, the problem may be in the piping.

Gas piping is a difficult problem to handle on your own and may require the help of one of the Fixappliances CA specialists.

Check Door Switch for Continuity

Fixing a broken door switch on a dryer that won’t start requires you to identify if the wire that connects the door to the motherboard panel of the dryer is cut. If so, you need to replace the wire. If it is not cut, you will need to use a multimeter to check the switch and wiring connections for continuity. Replace the switch if you get infinity readings for the switch.

Remember, a dryer won’t turn on but still have power if the door switch is broken. Make sure the electricity is off before making any repairs.

Why Clients Choose Fixappliances CA

Some of the repairs for a dryer that won’t start can be time consuming, dangerous, and costly if done incorrectly. Although you could fix some of these issues on your own, it might be best to place your trust in the professional service providers and repair people at Fixappliances CA.

Some reasons why you should choose us:

• Always friendly service
• Access and ordering of parts
• Highest quality service
• TSSA gas contractors
• Factory certified technicians
• Same-day service repair available
• Support of major brand appliances
• Techs with fifteen years of experience

Simply send us a message or call us at 1-888-242-0777 for any of your dryer repair inquiries. Our customer reps are available seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.