How to Troubleshoot Kenmore Dryers

Kenmore dryers can have issues just like any other appliance. Some of those issues can be the same as other dryers, while others seem to be exclusive to Kenmore. Troubleshooting a dryer is not overly complicated, but it does require some mechanical ability. If something seems too difficult, then a repairman should be called, but there are some things that can be done on your own to save a little money.

Instructions

1. Make sure the unit is plugged in. It stands to reason if there is no power going to the dryer, it's not going to work. Also, if it is a gas dryer, make sure the gas is running to the unit. Kenmore dryers have a power indicator light that will show when it is connected. This will keep you from having to pull out the dryer to check.

2. If the dryer will still not run, make sure the door is closed. Kenmore, as well as all other dryers, has a safety feature that keeps them from operating if the door isn't shut. If the door is shut, it could be the connection that relays to the dryer that the door is shut. On Kenmore dryers, the switch has been known to come loose. A repairman is best if this turns out to be the issue.

3. If the dryer is operating but not heating, check to see if the fuses have blown or the circuit breaker has tripped in the unit. You will need to open the back of the dryer to get to them. If after replacing the fuses or flipping the circuit breaker they blow again, then the issue is probably the heating element, and a repairman will need to be called. If it isn't an issue with the fuses or circuit breaker, then it is probably the thermostat connected to the heating element. A repairman still needs to be called.

4. Check the thermal fuse. With some Kenmore dryers, there is this extra fuse that can blow. If the unit seems to be overheating, check to see if the issue is this fuse.

5. Check to see if the belt is broken or has come off if the machine is running but won't turn. This can happen through normal wear and tear, and can be replaced without a repairman. Remove the back of the dryer to check. The belt should be running around the barrel of the dryer and threaded through a wheel near the motor. If it is broken, it is a simple task of slipping on a new one. The wheel will need to be removed to get it onto the track, and the rest of the belt goes on the dryer barrel. This sometimes requires a second set of hands to help put the belt in place.

Tips & Warnings

• Always turn off power and gas, if it is a gas dryer, before working on the appliance.