It’s frustrating when you go to do a load of laundry, and your dryer won’t start. You might be tempted to try and fix it yourself, but before you do, there are a few things you should know.
In this article, we’ll walk you through some common causes of why your Whirlpool dryer might not be starting and what you can do to fix it.
Solution 1: Thermal Fuse
A thermal fuse is a safety mechanism that prevents the dryer from becoming too hot. The blower housing, the heat source for electric dryers, and the burner on gas models are all places to find the fuse.
When continuity is maintained, the fuse should be closed, ensuring a continuous electrical connection through it. However, if the fuse is open, it will break the circuit and prevent the dryer from starting.
If your thermal fuse has blown, you’ll need to replace it with a new one.
Solution 2: Start Switch
The start switch is located on the control panel of your dryer. Pressing the button to start your dryer completes the circuit and allows current to flow to the drive motor. If the switch is faulty, it won’t provide power to the dryer.
You’ll need a multimeter to test whether the start switch is working. With the dryer unplugged, use the multimeter to test for continuity between the two terminals on the switch. If there is no continuity, the switch will need to be replaced.
Related: Whirlpool Dishwasher Not Drying
Solution 3: Door Switch
The door switch is a safety feature that prevents the dryer from running if the door is open. If the door switch is faulty, it could prevent the dryer from starting.
To test the door switch, open the dryer door and use a multimeter to test for continuity between the two terminals on the switch. If there is no continuity, the switch will need to be replaced.
Solution 4: Drive Motor
The drive motor turns the drum and forces air through the dryer. If the drive motor is defective, the dryer won’t start.
You’ll need a multimeter to test whether the drive motor is working. With the dryer unplugged, use the multimeter to test for continuity between the two terminals on the motor. If there is no continuity, the motor will need to be replaced.
Solution 5: Cycling Thermostat
The cycling thermostat monitors the air temperature and turns the heat on and off to maintain a consistent temperature. If the cycling thermostat is defective, it might prevent the dryer from starting.
You’ll need a multimeter to test whether the cycling thermostat is working. After unplugging the dryer, test for continuity between the two terminals on the thermostat. If there is no continuity, the thermostat will have to be replaced.
Solution 6: Timer
The timer controls how long the dryer runs. If the timer is defective, it might prevent the dryer from starting.
A multimeter is required to check whether the timer is operating. Use a multimeter to check for continuity between the two terminals on the timer after unplugging it from the outlet. If there’s no connection, the timer will have to be replaced.
Solution 7: Gas Valve Solenoid
The gas valve solenoid controls the flow of gas to the burner. If the solenoid is defective, the dryer won’t heat.
You’ll need a multimeter to check whether the gas valve solenoid is working. Test for continuity between the two terminals on the solenoid with the dryer unplugged. If there is no continuity, the solenoid will need to be replaced.
Solution 8: Main Control Board
The main control board may be faulty. However, it is not very often the case. Check every other more regularly occurring component before replacing the main control board.
Replace the main control board only if you’ve determined all the other components are in good working order.
Solution 9: Belt Switch
When the dryer belt snaps on most dryers, the motor continues to run, but the drum won’t turn. On the other hand, some dryers have a switch that cuts off power to the dryer if the drive belt breaks.
If this switch fails, it may shut off electricity to the dryer even when the belt is not broken.
Solution 10: Power Outlet
One of the most common reasons your Whirlpool dryer might not be starting is that it isn’t plugged in properly. Before doing anything else, ensure that the dryer is plugged into an outlet and that the power cord is firmly connected. If the power cord is loose, it could be why your dryer isn’t starting.
If the outlet is faulty, it could also prevent the dryer from starting. To test whether the outlet is working, plug in a lamp or another appliance and see if it turns on. If not, the outlet will need to be replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There A Reset Button On Whirlpool Dryer?
No, there is not a reset button on Whirlpool dryers.
How Do I Test My Whirlpool Dryer Door Switch?
To test the door switch, open the dryer door and use a multimeter to test for continuity between the two terminals on the switch. If there is no continuity, the switch will need to be replaced.
What Are The Most Common Reasons Why My Whirlpool Dryer Won’t Start?
The most common reasons why a Whirlpool dryer won’t start are because the door switch is defective, the thermal fuse is blown, or the power cord is not firmly connected.
How Do I Test My Whirlpool Dryer Thermal Fuse?
To test the thermal fuse, use a multimeter to check for continuity between the two terminals on the fuse. If there is no continuity, the fuse will need to be replaced.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why your Whirlpool dryer might not be starting. The most common reasons are a faulty door switch, drive motor, or cycling thermostat. Use a multimeter to test each of these components for continuity. If there is no continuity, the component will need to be replaced.
Other less common reasons include a defective timer, gas valve solenoid, main control board, or belt switch. Replacing these components is less likely to solve the problem.
Finally, ensure the dryer is plugged into an outlet, and the power cord is firmly connected. If the outlet is not working, it will need to be replaced.
These are some of the most common solutions to a dryer that won’t start. If you’ve checked all these solutions and are still having trouble, it’s time to call a professional.
Dryers are complex appliances, and there could be other issues that are not as easily diagnosed. A professional can troubleshoot the problem and get your dryer up and running again in no time.
