Why Won't My Whirlpool Dryer Start?
Whirlpool makes more than 45 models of dryers, ranging from basic front-loading machines with a few features, to high-efficiency models with seemingly more bells and whistles than a space shuttle. New machines even offer a steam setting that almost eliminates ironing tasks. If your dryer isn't running, though, all the bells and whistles in the world won't help you. Try a few troubleshooting measures recommended by Whirlpool.com before calling a service technician. Does this Spark an idea?
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Door
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The dryer won't run if the door is slightly ajar, and heavy loads may prevent it from closing completely. Open the door and move the clothes if necessary, so they sit further back in the dryer drum. Shut the door tightly. Push the "On" button for 2 to 5 seconds to start the dryer.
Breakers
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Many dryers use two breakers or fuses to operate. One breaker provides electricity to move the drum, while the other breaker gives electricity for producing heat. Open your circuit box and check to see that all the breakers are aligned in the same direction. If one of the breakers faces the opposite way, you've blown a fuse. Push the breaker with your hand so it is in alignment with the other breakers.
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Power
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Check to make sure the wall plug is securely inserted into an electrical outlet and that the outlet provides enough power. A dryer requires a 240-volt power outlet to work, which may be larger than a regular wall outlet. Contact a qualified electrician if you think this may be the problem.
Cycles
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Check to make sure you've selected a cycle before turning on the dryer. Many whirlpool dryer models won't run if the dryer is in "Wrinkle Prevent" position. Also, ensure that you've moved the dial completely past "Off."
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit laundry image by samantha grandy from Fotolia.com
