Dryer won't start cycle

Common reasons your dryer won't start cycle

The most common reasons your dryer won't start cycle are a faulty thermal fuse, failed door switch or a broken drum belt.

  • 57%

    57% of the time it's the
    Thermal Fuse

  • 18%

    18% of the time it's the
    Door Switch

  • 12%

    12% of the time it's the
    Drum Belt

  • 13%

    13% 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.

Thermal Fuse Replacement

A malfunctioning or blown thermal fuse can prevent the dryer from initiating its cycle. Positioned on the blower housing, this safety component activates if the dryer overheats. In electric dryers, it halts the motor operation, and in some gas models, it performs the same function. A congested exhaust vent system is a common culprit behind overheating and fuse blowouts. If your dryer fails to start, seek assistance from a Sears Home Services Technician for repair. They'll address the issue, including replacing the thermal fuse if necessary.

Door Switch Replacement

If your dryer fails to initiate a cycle, a malfunctioning door switch might be to blame. Responsible for detecting when the dryer door is closed, a faulty switch fails to recognize proper closure. Consequently, even with the door shut, the dryer won't commence its cycle if the switch is defective. Contact a Sears Home Services Technician for an examination if your dryer doesn't start. They will replace the door switch if found to be faulty.

Drum Belt Replacement

If your dryer fails to initiate a cycle, a potential cause could be a broken drum belt. This belt encircles the dryer drum and links to the drive motor pulley, which spins the drum. With wear over time, the belt may deteriorate and eventually snap. To prevent the motor from initiating when the belt is compromised, a switch on the idler pulley detects this condition. If your dryer won't start, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect it and replace the drum belt if necessary.

What to expect when you experience a dryer won't start cycle issue

How do you fix a dryer that won't start a cycle?

Addressing most issues where the cycle fails to start often requires replacing components such as the thermal fuse, door switch, or drum belt. Nevertheless, given the various possible causes, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem effectively. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is fundamental for determining the extent of the repair required.

Sears Home Services offers solutions for a dryer that won't start cycle

If your dryer fails to start a cycle, there could be several underlying reasons. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest scheduling diagnostic tests with a Sears Home Services professional. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing various dryer issues accurately.

What to consider with a dryer won't start a cycle diagnosis

Understanding and diagnosing modern appliances can be challenging without adequate knowledge and training. Attempting to fix your dryer issue without employing proper diagnostic techniques may lead to replacing parts based on guesswork. Appliances, particularly those developed in the last decade, have become highly sophisticated, often featuring electronic components that are hard to assess. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming more complicated.

When pressing Start yields no response, door-latch or fuse failures commonly block the cycle. Simple resets may not solve deeper electrical faults. Rely on dryer repair near me for correct troubleshooting. Launching normal cycles again saves time and laundry hassles.

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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.


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Frequently Asked Questions

Why won’t my dryer start its cycle?
The issue could be a faulty start switch, a tripped circuit breaker, or a broken door switch. Inspect and replace any defective components.
How can I fix my dryer if it won’t start its cycle?
Check the start switch, circuit breaker, and door switch. Replace any broken parts to restore function.
Could a broken door switch prevent my dryer from starting its cycle?
Yes, if the door switch is defective, the dryer will not start. Replacing the door switch should solve the issue.
What should I do if my dryer won’t start its cycle?
Inspect the start switch, circuit breaker, and door switch. Replace any faulty parts to get the dryer running again.

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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.

These dryer brands may also experience won't start cycle