How to Fix a Clothes Dryer That Will Not Start

While electric clothes dryers are remarkably durable and dependable, they occasionally need repair. Follow these steps below to diagnose and fix a dryer that will not start.

Things You'll Need

• Ohmmeter, voltmeter or electrician's multimeter

Instructions

1. Start with the most basic but often overlooked problem--check that the dryer has power. Look for a tripped breaker at the electrical panel or a blown fuse.

2. Inspect the cord and electrical outlet to see if they may have burnt out. Replace as necessary. If you must use an extension cord, try replacing it with a short, heavy gauge model.

3. Use a continuity tester to test the door switch and start switch. Replace if the test reveals that either has failed.

4. Inspect the safety fuse for burn out. Replace as necessary.

5. Use an ohmmeter to test the thermostat, timer motor and motor. Refer to the manufacturer's specification sheet in your owner's manual for guidance as to the proper readings for each. Replace as necessary.

Tips & Warnings

• Always disconnect the power at the outlet and the source (the electrical panel in this case) before working on an electric dryer.

References

• Electric Dryer Troubleshooting Guide

Resources

• Electric dryer parts