9 Reasons Your Dryer Won’t Start

Thermal fuse

One of the most common reasons a dryer stops working is a blown thermal fuse, often caused by restricted airflow due to a blocked vent. This small safety component is designed to prevent the appliance from overheating. Depending on the model, the fuse is typically located near the blower assembly or close to the heat source—either the heating coil in electric units or the gas burner in gas models. To check if it’s functioning, a continuity test using a multimeter is needed. SD Appliance Repair. A properly working fuse will allow electrical current to pass through. If the circuit is open, the fuse has failed and must be replaced. Don’t forget to clear out the vent system before using the dryer again.

Start switch

Figuring out whether the start switch is functioning isn’t too difficult. Press the start button—if the dryer makes a humming noise but doesn’t run, the switch is likely doing its job. However, if there’s complete silence when you try to start it, the switch may be faulty. To be sure, use a multimeter to test for continuity. If the test shows the circuit is open, you’ll need to install a new start switch.

Door switch

When you close your dryer’s door and hear a click, that sound is a sign the door switch is engaging properly. This small switch signals to the dryer that the door is securely shut. If you press on it and hear the familiar click, it’s likely working as intended. But if there’s no audible response, it may be faulty and should be swapped out.

Drive motor

The drive motor powers both the drum rotation and the blower that circulates air. If you’ve already ruled out the more common issues and the dryer still produces a humming sound when not in operation, the motor could be the culprit. Start by removing the belt and inspecting the blower wheel to ensure nothing is blocking it. If the wheel spins freely and no debris is found, chances are the motor has failed and will need to be replaced.

Drive belt

If the motor runs but the drum remains still, the drive belt could be the issue. In some models, a broken belt can trigger a safety switch that stops the machine altogether. Whether your dryer shuts off or just spins the motor without turning the drum, a worn or snapped belt will need to be replaced.

Power problems

If you’re dealing with an electric dryer that won’t power on, the problem might be tied to the outlet itself. Start by unplugging the appliance and testing the socket with another device. SD Appliance Repair. If that device doesn’t power up either, a tripped breaker or blown fuse could be the reason. Should those components appear to be working, a multimeter can help determine whether the outlet is supplying electricity.

Belt switch

Some dryers are equipped with a belt switch, while others are not. To find out if your model includes one, refer to the user manual or look it up by model number. If your unit has this feature, try starting the dryer and listening closely—if you notice a humming sound, the switch is likely working. But if there’s no sound at all, it’s time to use a multimeter to check for continuity. If the circuit is open while the dryer is running, the switch will need to be replaced.

Main control board

Although it’s rare, the central control board can occasionally be the source of the problem when a dryer refuses to operate. If you’ve already confirmed that all other key components are working properly, this board becomes a likely suspect. There isn’t a straightforward way to test it, but visual clues—like scorch marks or damaged circuitry—can indicate failure. If you spot anything unusual, replacing the control board might be necessary.

Timer

The timer is one of the least likely parts to fail in a dryer, but if every other possible issue has been ruled out, it could be the underlying cause. Like the control board, there’s no simple way to confirm whether it’s working correctly. When all other components check out, swapping in a new timer is often the only way to move forward.