A clothes dryer is an appliance we rely heavily on to keep our daily lives running smoothly. However, it can be frustrating when your dryer won’t turn on. There could be numerous reasons your dryer won’t turn on, and identifying the specific cause can be challenging.
Some common reasons are issues in the thermal fuse, broken drive motor, malfunctioning dryer timer, defective door switch; start switch not working, or issues with the power supply.
In this article, we’ll explore in detail the following:
- Common causes of a dryer not turning on
- How to identify those issues
- Step-by-step guide on how to resolve those issues yourself
- When to call a professional’s help
Read on to find out more!
Common Reasons Why Your Dryer Won’t Start
If your dryer doesn’t start, there could be several reasons why. Here are some common issues that might be causing your dryer’s drum to turn-off problem:
Thermal Fuse Blows
The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off heated air from the dryer cabinet and off the flow of electricity to the dryer if it overheats. If the thermal fuse blows, the dryer won’t start. Blocked air vents or a malfunctioning thermostat usually cause this.
Defective Door Switch
The door switch is a safety mechanism in electric dryers that prevents the dryer from starting if the door is open. If the dryer door switch is defective, the dryer won’t start even if the door is closed.
Start Switch Not Working
The start switch initiates the drying cycle by using hot air and sending power to the dryer motor first. If the start switch is defective, the dryer won’t start. A faulty switch, loose wiring, or a blown fuse can cause this.
Worn Belt Switch
The belt switch is a smaller safety switch that detects if the dryer belt breaks or wears out. If the dryer function belt switch is not functioning properly, the dryer won’t start.
Drive Motor Issues
If the drive motor of the broken dryer is defective, the dryer won’t start. Worn bearings, a broken drive belt or pulley, or a malfunctioning motor switch can cause motor issues.
Broken Drum Belt
The drum belt connects the dryer drum to the motor pulley. If the belt is broken, the dryer won’t start. A broken belt can be caused by wear and tear or a blockage in the drum-bearing exhaust vent system.
Power Supply Problem
If the dryer is not receiving power, it won’t start. Check the power cord for any visible damage, and ensure the electric dryer outlet is functioning properly.
Defective Main Control Board
The dryer’s control panel or board controls the dryer’s various functions. If the control board is defective, the dryer won’t start or function properly.
Malfunctioning Dryer Timer
The timer controls how long the dryer runs. If the timer is malfunctioning, the dryer won’t start, or the gas dryer will not stop running. A faulty timer motor, loose wiring, or a broken timer knob can cause this.
Step-by-Step Solutions for Common Problems Why Your Dryer Won’t Start
If you’re experiencing any dryer problems or issues with your dryer not starting, here are some step-by-step solutions for the common dryer vent-up problems:
Thermal Fuse Blows
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Remove the back panel of the dryer to locate the thermal fuse.
- Test the fuse with a multimeter.
- If the fuse is blown, replace it.
- Clean out any blockages in the vent system to prevent the issue from happening again.
Defective Door Switch
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the door switch from the dryer.
- Test the switch with a multimeter.
- If the switch is defective, replace it.
Start Switch Not Working
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the control panel from the dryer.
- Test the switch with a multimeter.
- If the switch is defective, replace it.
Worn Belt Switch
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the front panel of the dryer.
- Locate the belt switch and test it with a multimeter.
- If the switch is defective, replace it.
Drive Motor Issues
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the front panel of the dryer.
- Locate the drive motor and test it with a multimeter.
- If the motor is defective, replace it.
Broken Drum Belt
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the front panel of the dryer.
- Locate the drum belt and test it for wear and tear or breakage.
- If the belt is broken, replace it.
Power Supply Problem
- Check that the cord is properly plugged into the outlet.
- Check the outlet with a multimeter to ensure it is functioning properly.
- Check the power cord for visible damage.
- If there are any issues, replace the cord or outlet.
Defective Main Control Board
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the control panel from the dryer.
- Test the control board with a multimeter.
- If the control board is defective, replace it.
Malfunctioning Dryer Timer
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Use a screwdriver to remove the control panel from the dryer.
- Test the timer motor with a multimeter.
- If the timer is malfunctioning, replace it.
It’s Always Best To Call In A Professional For Repairs
Although it may seem tempting to try and fix your dryer yourself, it’s always best to call a professional for repairs. While you may be able to identify the common problems preventing your dryer from starting, attempting to fix it yourself can be dangerous.
A professional used appliance repair and technician has the training and experience to identify and repair issues with your dryer safely. They have the necessary tools and equipment to do the job quickly and effectively. Working with electrical components and parts is highly risky without proper knowledge.
Quality Appliance Repair offers quality and reliable used appliance repair services all over Australia. Call today to speak with one of our experienced technicians and get your dryer working again!
