It is important to know how to maintain your dryer. The passage of clothes creates a lot of lint, and this may damage certain components of the device. So always remember to clean the filter as soon as possible.
Poor maintenance of the device can therefore lead to failures. For example, the dryer may not start. It will then be necessary to check and test certain parts to find out where the failure may come from:
- door security
- the belt
- humidity sensors
- the water pump
- the turbine
- motor rollers
- markers
- start capacitor
- engine
- the connection
A non-starting dryer can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially when you have a pile of laundry waiting to be dried. There are several reasons why your dryer might not start, ranging from simple issues to more complex problems. In this article, we will explore some common causes and troubleshooting steps to help you get your dryer up and running again.
1. Power Supply Issues
The first thing to check when your dryer won’t start is the power supply:
- Ensure the dryer is plugged into a functioning electrical outlet. Sometimes, the plug may have come loose or disconnected.
- Check the circuit breaker or fuse box dedicated to the dryer. If the breaker has tripped or the fuse has blown, reset or replace it accordingly.
- Test the electrical outlet with another device to confirm it is providing power.
2. Door Switch Problem
Most dryers have a door switch that prevents the dryer from starting if the door is not fully closed. If the door switch is faulty or misaligned, it may prevent the dryer from starting. Check the door switch and make sure it engages properly when the door is closed. You can use a multimeter to test the continuity of the switch to determine if it is functioning correctly.
3. Thermal Fuse Failure
The thermal fuse is a safety feature that blows if the dryer overheats. If the thermal fuse is blown, the dryer will not start. To check the thermal fuse, you will need to access the back panel of the dryer and use a multimeter to test its continuity. If the thermal fuse is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
4. Start Switch or Timer Defect
The start switch or timer in the dryer can become faulty over time. If the start switch or timer is defective, it may prevent the dryer from starting. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of these components. If either of them is not functioning correctly, they will need to be replaced.
5. Faulty Drive Motor
The drive motor is responsible for spinning the dryer drum. If the motor is defective or has burnt out, the dryer won’t start. Test the motor using a multimeter to check its continuity. If the motor is not working, it will need to be replaced.
6. Broken Drive Belt
The drive belt connects the drive motor to the dryer drum. If the belt is broken or worn out, the drum will not spin, and the dryer won’t start. Inspect the drive belt for any signs of damage and replace it if necessary.
7. Control Board Failure
Modern dryers often have electronic control boards that manage various functions. If the control board is defective or has a blown fuse, it can prevent the dryer from starting. Inspect the control board for visible damage and test its functionality with a multimeter. If the control board is faulty, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
CHECK DRYER STARTING CAPACITOR
The start capacitor has the function of starting the motor: if your dryer drum is not spinning, you should check the capacitor. This part is usually attached to or near the engine.
- Run the program, then rotate the drum manually, try both ways. If the drum starts to rotate, the capacitor is defective.
- Set the multimeter to microfarads, a value higher than that indicated on the capacitor being tested.
- Place the multimeter leads on the capacitor terminals.
- The found value must match the one indicated on the label, otherwise replace it.
INSPECT THE TURBINE
Your appliance is equipped with a motor-driven fan to circulate hot air. It can sometimes be accessed from the front by removing the filters, otherwise the sides will have to be dismantled.
- Inspect the impeller, turning the drum by hand if possible, it should rotate freely.
- If the item is stuck, remove it, but if the turbine is in poor condition, replace it.
CHECK DRYER WATER PUMP
The water pump, also called the drain pump, is usually located at the bottom of the unit. It can be accessed from the side or rear.
- Remove tubing and connectors from pump. Check if its propeller rotates freely and if the float is blocked.
- Then set the multimeter to the minimum resistance value, and then place the multimeter probes on the pump motor terminals.
- If you find a value of zero ( 1 or OL ), then the pump is off and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
A dryer that won’t start can be caused by various issues, ranging from simple to more complex problems. By following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, you can identify the most likely cause of the problem and potentially resolve it on your own. However, if you are unsure about the troubleshooting process or lack the necessary skills and tools, it is best to seek professional help from a qualified appliance repair technician. They can diagnose the issue accurately and safely fix the problem, ensuring your dryer is back up and running efficiently. Remember, always prioritize safety when working with electrical appliances and disconnect the dryer from the power supply before attempting any repairs.
