Why Your Dryer Won’t Start & How to Fix It

You’ve got a pile of wet clothes waiting to be dried, but when you hit the power button, your dryer won’t start. No matter how many times you press it, the dryer remains silent and inert.

A dryer that completely fails to power on is always frustrating. But don’t worry – most causes of a dryer not turning on at all are relatively easy to identify and repair. This dryer troubleshooting guide from Fix4U Repairs will cover diagnosing and fixing common dryer won’t start issues.

What Prevents a Dryer From Turning On?

Problems in these few key components typically cause a dryer to not start:

No Power Supply

If the dryer isn’t plugged in, the outlet is dead, or the breaker is tripped, the dryer can’t turn on. Always start a diagnosis here.

Blown Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse shuts off power when the dryer overheats. No continuity means the fuse blew and needs replacing.

Defective Door Switch

If the door switch malfunctions, it prevents the dryer from starting as a safety precaution. The switch requires replacing.

Bad Start/Stop Button

The push to start button activates the motor. If this button is damaged, pressing it won’t start the dryer.

Faulty Motor

If the electric motor that turns the drum fails, the dryer won’t start. Burnt windings commonly cause motor failure.

Loose Wiring

Dryers won’t start if loose wiring interrupts electrical supply to components.

How to Diagnose a Dryer That Won’t Start

Start basic no-start troubleshooting with these steps:

• The Verify dryer is plugged into a working outlet and the outlet provides proper voltage.
• Inspect the electrical cord for damage. Test for continuity.
• Check if the start button needs to be pressed firmly to activate the switch.
• Assess thermal fuse condition and continuity using a multimeter.
• Test door switch function and continuity. Listen for clicks when closed.
• Examine wiring and control board connections. Reseat loose wires.

How to Fix a Dryer That Won’t Start

Once the specific issue is pinpointed, repairs are straightforward:

Replace Thermal Fuse

1. Locate thermal fuse housing near the vent duct.
2. Pull the fuse out and test continuity with a multimeter.
3. Install new fuse, securing clips tightly.

Replace Door Switch

1. Disconnect two wires, remove mounting screws.
2. Install new door switch. Reconnect wires to proper terminals.

Replace Start Button

1. Unplug dryer and open control console panel.
2. Disconnect wires from the start button, remove any screws.
3. Attach wires to the new button, secure in place with screws.

Tighten Loose Wiring

1. Remove the rear service panel to access component wiring.
2. Firmly reseat any visibly loose wire connections.
3. Test operation and monitor if problem persists.

Preventing Dryer Won’t Start Problems

Routine maintenance helps avoid no-start issues:

• Make sure the dryer cord is secured tightly in the outlet.
• Keep the dryer area clutter-free to prevent cord damage.
• Clean lint screen before each load to maintain proper airflow.
• Arrange service yearly to identify any component wear early.

Don’t tolerate dryer headaches – the Fix4U Repairs team has the training to quickly diagnose any dryer starting problem. Depend on us for fast, affordable repairs to get clothes drying again! Contact us at (647) 363-5205.