Dryer Not Running At All
Below are the most common reasons a dryer will not run at all.
Basically the problem you are having is when you press the start
button, nothing happens. Follow the guide below to find the
problem and repair it.
No Power
The first thing you want to do is make sure
your dryer is getting the proper voltage for it to run. If the
dryer is electric, it will need 220 volts AC to run correctly.
A gas dryer will only need 120 volts AC. Locate the breaker in
your house to the dryer. Reset it then test the dryer to see
if it runs. If your dryer runs at this point, good to go.
If not, read on.
Cords
Inspect the cord for burn marks or damage.
Check the end with the prongs that go into the outlet. If they
appear discolored, replace the cord. It may become a fire hazard if
left go. Check the end of the cord that goes to the dryer
itself. Look for any burnt wires or loose connections to the
terminal block.
Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse is a small white thermostat
on the blower assembly inside the dryer. When this trips, the
dryer will not start. This is telling you that you have a
problem with airflow and will not allow the dryer to run. You
must replace the thermal fuse when it trips, it's a non-resettable
fuse.
Timer
The Timer is what sends the power to various
components in the dryer. If there is malfunction within the
timer, this could cause the dryer to not run at all. This is
basically the main control center for the dryer.
Motor -
Troubleshoot your Dryer Motor
The motor is what spins the drum on the
dryer. There is a belt connected to it and it tumbles the
clothes so that they can dry more effectively. If the motor is
burnt out or if there is a problem with the motor switch, the dryer
will not start up.
Door Switch
The dryer door switch is what tells the dryer
that the door is closed and allows the dryer to start up when you
press the start button. The dryer will not run with the door
open. If there is a problem with the switch that tells the
dryer the door is closed, it will not run.
Broken Belt Switch
Some dryers are equiped with a switch that
tells the dryer that the belt is broken. This switch will
interupt the power to the motor and cause it not to start, or shut
off in mid cycle. This switch is usually located near the
motor and is activated by the idler pulley. If there is no
tension on the pulley with the belt, the switch will not let power
to the dryer motor.
Start Switch
This is the button you press to start the
dryer. This sends voltage to the dryer motor and allows it to
start up. Once the motor is started it gets power from the
door switch and other components. If the start switch is
defective, the dryer cannot start. This is an easy component
to test and repair.