Dryer not working
Common reasons your dryer not working
The most common reasons your dryer is not working are a defective timer, failed door switch or a broken drum belt.
57% of the time it's the
Timer18% of the time it's the
Door Switch12% of the time it's the
Drum Belt13% of the time it's the
Something else
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Common dryer repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dryer parts may fix your problem.
Timer Replacement
If your dryer isn't functioning, a faulty timer might be to blame. The timer controls different parts of the dryer through switches or contacts. If it's not working properly, it won't activate the drive motor. If your dryer won't start, it's best to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect it and replace the timer if needed.
Door Switch Replacement
If your dryer isn't functioning, a malfunctioning door switch might be the issue. This switch detects if the dryer door is closed, but if it's not working properly, it won't register that the door is shut. As a result, the dryer won't start even when the door is closed. If you encounter this problem, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect your dryer. They will replace the door switch if it's found to be defective.
Drum Belt Replacement
If your dryer isn't functioning, a faulty drum belt might be the culprit. This belt loops around the dryer drum and links to the drive motor pulley, allowing the motor to spin the drum. With wear and tear over time, the belt can become worn out and eventually break. There's a safety mechanism in place: a switch on the idler pulley detects if the drive belt is broken, preventing the motor from starting. If your dryer fails to start, it's recommended to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect it. They'll replace the drum belt if necessary.
What to expect when you experience a dryer not working issue
How to repair a dryer not working problem
Addressing most issues where the dryer isn't working typically requires replacing the timer, door switch, or drum belt. However, given the various potential causes, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem effectively. An accurate diagnosis is vital for determining the cost of the repair.
Sears Home Services solutions for a dryer that is not working
If your dryer isn't working, there could be various reasons behind it. To avoid replacing unnecessary parts, we suggest having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the root cause of the issue. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing all sorts of dryer malfunctions.
What to watch out for with a dryer not working diagnosis
Identifying issues with modern appliances can be tough without the right expertise. Trying to solve problems with your dryer without proper diagnostic methods may result in replacing parts based on guesswork. Appliances, especially those made in the last decade, have advanced significantly, with electronic components that are challenging to assess. Fixing the latest appliance models through DIY repairs is getting harder.
A dryer that does nothing—no heat, no spin—generally has multiple failing components. Random resets typically won’t help. Instead, schedule dryer repair near me to pinpoint the real malfunction. Targeted repairs restore your dryer’s full functionality.
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Dryer service
He was professional and polite. I didn't call back later that afternoon, although he replaced a thermostat the smart dry timer doesn't work as I was still having the same issue. The lady said she would email him and have him return. Never heard from anyone else.
Terry F, Oklahoma City, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
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Glossary Terms
A dryer drum is the main interior component of a clothes dryer where clothes are placed to be dried. It rotates during the drying cycle, allowing heated air to circulate through the clothes.
A dryer filter, commonly known as a lint filter, is a component of a clothes dryer that captures lint and other debris from clothes during the drying process, preventing them from clogging the dryer vent.
A dryer pedestal is a platform that elevates a dryer off the ground, making it easier to load and unload laundry while also providing additional storage space in some models.
A dryer rack is an accessory for clothes dryers that provides a stationary platform to dry items without tumbling, ideal for delicate or bulky items, or shoes that might be damaged by the usual drying cycle.
Common dryer symptoms to look out for
- Dryer isn't heating
- Dryer no heat
- Dryer drum roller replacement
- Dryer stopped working
- Dryer gets hot but takes long time to dry
- Dryer burning smell
- Dryer leaking from bottom
- Dryer leaking water
- Dryer leaking
- Dryer makes noise when tumbling
- Dryer noisy
- Dryer not cooling down
- Dryer not drying clothes properly
- Dryer not heating
- Dryer vibrates
- Dryer not draining
- Dryer not drying
- Dryer no power
- Dryer will not heat up
- Dryer no sound
- Dryer not spinning
- Dryer not starting
- Dryer not turning on
- Dryer display not working
- Dryer door not closing
- Dryer light not working
- Dryer won't start cycle
- Dryer won't turn off
These dryer brands may also experience not working
- Kenmore Elite dryer not working
- Whirlpool dryer not working
- Bosch dryer not working
- Admiral dryer not working
- Amana dryer not working
- Electrolux dryer not working
- Frigidaire dryer not working
- LG dryer not working
- Hotpoint dryer not working
- KitchenAid dryer not working
- GE dryer not working
- Haier dryer not working
- Kenmore dryer not working
- Maytag dryer not working
- Roper dryer not working
- Samsung dryer not working
- Speed Queen dryer not working