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

1. The Door Is Open

At times, a dryer door may appear closed but hasn’t fully latched. This could be due to not applying enough pressure or an item of clothing obstructing the seal. If your dryer won’t start, inspect the door area and ensure nothing is preventing it from closing properly. Press firmly until you hear a distinct click—this simple step might be all it takes to get your dryer running again.

2. The Door Switch Is Malfunctioning

Even if the dryer door is fully closed, a faulty door switch might be preventing it from starting. Normally, this switch makes a clicking sound when engaged. If you don’t hear a click upon closing the door, the switch could be broken.
For dryers with an interior light, check if the light stays on after shutting the door. If it does, the switch may not be engaging properly. You can also test this by manually pressing the switch with your finger to see if the light turns off.
If the door switch is defective, you might be able to replace it yourself with some basic electrical knowledge and the right tools. After unplugging the dryer, access the switch by removing the control panel or door frame, then test it with a multimeter. If it’s faulty, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to install a replacement.
For those uncomfortable handling electrical repairs or dealing with hard-to-reach components, a professional dryer repair service can quickly take care of the issue.

3. The Dryer Is Too Full

Excessive laundry weight can interfere with a washer’s ability to spin correctly. Dryers, like washers, have a limit to how much they can handle at once. When overloaded, the motor may struggle to turn the drum, potentially triggering a built-in safety feature that stops the dryer from running.
In addition, overloading can restrict airflow, causing the appliance to overheat. Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining safe internal temperatures. If overheating occurs, thermal fuses or safety switches may engage, shutting down the dryer to prevent potential damage or fire hazards.

4. There’s No Power

Both gas and electric dryers rely on electricity to function, and power issues can sometimes prevent them from starting. The first step is to check whether the dryer is properly plugged in and if the power cord is intact. A loose connection or a worn-out cord could be the culprit. If the cord appears frayed or its prongs are discolored, it may need to be replaced, as this could indicate excessive power usage and overheating.
The problem may also lie with the outlet itself. If the dryer is plugged in and the cord looks fine, try testing the outlet by plugging in a smaller device or using a multimeter to check for power flow. Another potential issue is a failed terminal block, which disrupts the electrical connection between the power source and the dryer’s internal components, preventing operation.
Additionally, a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse could be cutting off power to the appliance. Checking the fuse box can help determine whether a reset or fuse replacement is necessary to restore power to the dryer.

5. The Child Lock Is On

The child lock feature on a dryer is designed to prevent accidental use by disabling the control panel. When activated, it stops buttons and knobs from responding, effectively locking all functions. Even if the dryer is powered on and in perfect working order, it won’t start or react to any commands until the child lock is deactivated.

6. The Thermal Fuse Is Blown

Sometimes, a power issue originates within the dryer itself. Many modern dryers are equipped with thermal fuses designed to prevent overheating. If the vents become clogged, the thermal fuse can blow, stopping the dryer from functioning.
If you’re comfortable handling electrical repairs, you may be able to replace a blown thermal fuse yourself. Start by unplugging the appliance, then locate the fuse—typically found on the blower housing or vent duct behind the rear panel. Using a multimeter, check for continuity. If the fuse is faulty, install a replacement according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
In most cases, replacing the fuse and thoroughly cleaning the vents will resolve the issue and restore the dryer’s operation.

7. The Control Board Has Failed

The control board serves as the central command center for a dryer, coordinating functions by processing user inputs and directing signals to essential components like the motor, heating element, and sensors. If this board malfunctions, these signals fail to transmit properly.
A faulty control board prevents the dryer from starting, adjusting temperatures, or managing different drying cycles. Acting as the appliance’s brain, any disruption in its operation can lead to an unresponsive control panel, failure to start, or unpredictable behavior during use.

8. The Belt Is Broken or Worn Out

The drive belt plays a crucial role in a dryer by linking the motor to the drum, allowing it to rotate and tumble clothes during the cycle. If the belt becomes worn or snaps, the motor may continue running, but the drum will remain still, preventing proper operation.
Many dryers are equipped with a belt sensor or switch that detects a broken belt and stops the appliance from starting to prevent potential damage or overheating. Since the belt endures constant use, it can gradually fray, stretch, or break entirely.
Routine maintenance and inspections can help catch signs of wear early, ensuring a timely replacement before the belt fails. The cost to replace a dryer belt typically falls between $100 and $230.

9. The Thermostat Is Faulty

The thermostat in a dryer regulates temperature and prevents overheating. If it malfunctions, the appliance may overheat, triggering the thermal fuse and shutting down completely.
A defective thermostat can also misread temperatures, making the dryer think it’s hotter than it is. Many dryers include built-in safety features that prevent operation when temperatures exceed a certain level. If you suspect an issue with the thermostat, a professional technician can diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs.

10. The “On” Button Doesn’t Work

Over time, the start switch or power button on a dryer can become worn out. If you’ve loaded the dryer, set the timer, pressed the button, and the machine doesn’t start, it’s likely a sign of an issue. You can check the button’s functionality with a multimeter, or if you’re unsure, contact a professional to test and replace it.

11. The Timer Is Broken

The dryer timer controls how long the drying cycle lasts by managing the power to the motor and heating elements. It ensures the dryer runs for the set time and automatically shuts off when the cycle finishes.
If the timer malfunctions or breaks, it won’t be able to signal the beginning or end of the cycle, which can stop the dryer from working properly.
A faulty timer also creates a safety risk since it may fail to turn off the dryer when it should, possibly causing overheating. SD Appliance Repair Timely operation is critical to prevent excessive heat buildup and ensure the dryer functions safely. If the timer isn’t working right, the dryer’s safety features might prevent it from starting to protect against these hazards.

12. The Drive Motor Won’t Turn the Drum

The drive motor in a dryer is what powers the drum, allowing it to tumble and dry your clothes. If the motor becomes obstructed by lint or debris, it may freeze up or overheat. When this occurs, the motor can no longer turn the drum, causing the dryer to stop working.
If you hear a humming sound when pressing the start button but the dryer doesn’t run, it’s often a sign that the motor is having trouble. Unplugging the appliance and inspecting the motor for blockages can resolve the issue. If not, it’s best to contact a repair technician.
Regularly cleaning your dryer vents can help avoid motor problems and maintain the dryer’s efficiency.