What to Do if the Dryer Won't Turn Off Unless the Door is Open?

What Are the Causes for Why Your Dryer Won’t Shut Off Automatically

Typically, when you open the door of your dryer, it should stop spinning and prevent overheating. If it continues to operate with the door open, it suggests more serious issues, and you should immediately disconnect your appliance. Here are some common problems that may cause your dryer to remain operational when the door is closed and sometimes even when it’s open.

Diagnosing a Broken Door Switch

If your dryer doesn’t shut off automatically despite the door being open, the first thing to check is the door switch. When you close the dryer door, it activates the door switch, sending a signal through the electric components, indicating it’s safe to start the drying cycle.

The easiest way to determine if the door switch is the problem is to manually press it. If the latch mechanism seems to be sticking, it’s likely that the dryer won’t shut off even when the door is open. There could be dirt or debris causing the issue, and cleaning it may resolve the problem. However, if the door switch is broken, it will need to be replaced before the dryer can be used again. Remember to unplug the machine to power it off before attempting any repairs.

When a Dryer’s Timer Stops Working

Unless your dryer is an older model, fixing a timer can be a complicated process. Most modern dryers have computer processors and circuit boards that control everything, and you have to be a trained technician to replace these types of components safely and effectively. Older dryers may use a mechanical timer that you can replace yourself, but it may be more difficult to find the parts for a dryer that’s no longer in production.

Cycling Thermostat or Cool Down Thermostat

Some dryers, both gas and electric models, have a couple of different thermostats to help regulate when it’s time to move through the dryer cycles and to know when to enter the cool-down phase. If either one of these components isn’t working correctly, it can prevent the dryer from shutting down unless the door is opened.

Testing a cycling thermostat isn’t easy. The dryer has to be on at the time, and with electrical components exposed, there are safety risks. Only people with technical know-how and experience fixing cycling thermostats should attempt this. It’s almost always better to contact a service technician to perform this type of repair.

The cooldown thermostat may be a bit easier to diagnose. If this thermostat isn’t working properly, the dryer may continuously tumble until you open the door. If you want to check your cooldown thermostat, you’ll want to unplug the dryer first.

How to Fix a Dryer that Keeps Running Unless the Door Is Open

Replacing A Door Switch

If there’s a repair that most homeowners are more comfortable with than others, it’s probably replacing a door switch. It’s a simple mechanism — the only complicated part is the wiring involved. If you have some electrical knowledge, this shouldn’t be a major obstacle. Just remember to unplug the machine before you get started.

Replacing the Dryer’s Timer

As you probably remember reading earlier, the dryer’s timer isn’t an easy component to replace if you don’t have the required technical knowledge. Testing it can be dangerous. If you’ve tested everything else and you’ve concluded that the timer is the problem, we recommend hiring a certified expert to help with the repair.

If you have an older dryer with a mechanical timer, it may be easier to replace it yourself. Before attempting this, we suggest checking your local hardware store or online parts source to see if they carry replacement parts for your model dryer. If you’re having trouble finding replacement parts for your older dryer, contact FIX Appliances CA for help.

Replacing a Cycling Thermostat or a Cool Down Thermostat

Replacing a cycling thermostat isn’t your typical DIY project. As we discussed earlier, you should only attempt to replace this component if you have much technical knowledge. You’ll have to remove the back panel to access it, and you should disconnect your power source before starting.

While it is easier to diagnose a cool-down thermostat, it’s still not a quick fix for someone lacking experience. Again, you’ll have to open up the machine, but only after you’ve unplugged the appliance first. It’s usually easier and safer to contact a qualified technician for help.

When it’s Time to Contact Service for a Dryer That Won’t Shut Off

If you’ve considered trying to fix your dryer yourself and decided against it, there are still great options available to you. We suggest you call us today for a fast and reliable service. Our factory-trained technicians are familiar with all major appliance brands and how to diagnose them.

We have been one of Canada’s most trusted names in appliance repair in Toronto and the GTA for over 18 years. We stand by our record, and we’re ready to get started when you are. You can call us at 888-242-0777 or request service through the online form. If you have a dryer that is not starting or a dryer that won’t turn off unless the door is open, don’t wait. Please call us today!