Introduction
When your dryer won’t turn on, it can be very frustrating. It’s often hard to know where to start troubleshooting the problem, and you may find yourself asking, “why is my dryer not turning on?” The good news is that there are several potential causes for a dryer not starting up, and this article will provide an overview of the most common ones. We’ll discuss how to diagnose the issue, as well as steps you can take to fix it yourself or when to seek professional help.
Troubleshooting Steps to Diagnose Why Your Dryer Isn’t Turning On
Before you jump into any repair work, it’s important to first diagnose the issue. There are several steps you can take to troubleshoot why your dryer isn’t turning on. Here are some of the most common ones:
Check Power Source
The first step is to check the power source. Make sure the dryer is plugged in and that the outlet is working properly. You can test the outlet by plugging in another appliance to see if it turns on. If the outlet is not working, you may need to replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker.
Check Circuit Breakers
If the outlet is working, then the next step is to check the circuit breakers. Locate the circuit breaker box and check to see if any of the breakers have been tripped. If so, reset them and try turning on the dryer again. If the breakers continue to trip, you should call an electrician for further assistance.
Test Thermal Fuse
A thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off power to the dryer if it overheats. To test the thermal fuse, you’ll need to access the back of the dryer and locate the fuse. Using a multimeter, check the continuity of the fuse to determine if it has blown. If so, you’ll need to replace the fuse before attempting to use the dryer again.
Check Start Switch
The start switch is the button you press to start the dryer. If the start switch is faulty, it could be preventing the dryer from turning on. To test the start switch, unplug the dryer and remove the switch. Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the switch to determine if it needs to be replaced.
Check Door Switch
The door switch ensures that the dryer door is closed before it will start. If the door switch is faulty, it can prevent the dryer from turning on. To test the door switch, unplug the dryer and remove the switch. Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the switch to determine if it needs to be replaced.
Check Timer
The timer controls the amount of time the dryer runs for. If the timer is faulty, it can prevent the dryer from turning on. To test the timer, unplug the dryer and remove the timer. Using a multimeter, check the continuity of the timer to determine if it needs to be replaced.
Common Reasons Why a Dryer Won’t Start
Once you’ve completed the troubleshooting steps above, you should have a better understanding of why your dryer isn’t turning on. Here are some of the most common reasons why a dryer won’t start:
Blown Fuses
If the outlet is not working, it could be due to a blown fuse. Check the fuse box for any signs of a blown fuse and replace it if necessary.
Tripped Circuit Breakers
If the circuit breakers have been tripped, they can prevent the dryer from turning on. Reset the circuit breakers and try to turn on the dryer again.
Bad Door Switch
If the door switch is faulty, it can prevent the dryer from turning on. Test the door switch using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
Faulty Start Switch
If the start switch is faulty, it can prevent the dryer from turning on. Test the start switch using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
Malfunctioning Timer
If the timer is faulty, it can prevent the dryer from turning on. Test the timer using a multimeter and replace it if necessary.
How to Reset Your Dryer After a Power Outage
If your dryer won’t turn on after a power outage, you may need to reset it. To reset the dryer, first unplug it from the wall. Then plug it back in and press and hold the reset button for 10-15 seconds. This should reset the dryer and allow it to turn on again.
Safety Precautions for Repairing a Non-Functioning Dryer
When repairing a non-functioning dryer, it’s important to take safety precautions. First, wear protective clothing such as gloves and safety glasses. Second, always unplug the unit prior to making repairs. Finally, take all necessary precautions when working with electricity.
What to Do When Your Dryer Stops Working
If your dryer stops working, the first step is to perform regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the lint trap and vents, checking for obstructions in the drum, and replacing the filter. Regular maintenance can help to reduce the risk of breakdowns and ensure your dryer is running efficiently.
How to Test the Electrical Components of Your Dryer
To test the electrical components of your dryer, you’ll need to use a multimeter. First, check the voltage of the motor to make sure it’s within the proper range. Then, test the heating element and thermostat to ensure they are functioning properly. Finally, test the start switch, door switch, and timer to make sure they are working correctly.
DIY Fixes for When Your Dryer Won’t Turn On
Once you have diagnosed the issue, you may be able to fix it yourself. Some of the most common DIY fixes for when your dryer won’t turn on include replacing fuses/circuit breakers, cleaning the lint trap/vents, and replacing the door switch.
Conclusion
Diagnosing why your dryer isn’t turning on can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can narrow down the problem and determine the best course of action. Remember to take all necessary safety precautions when performing repairs, and if you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
