2. The Door Switch Is Malfunctioning

Even when the dryer door seems shut, a malfunctioning door switch can stop the machine from starting. Usually, you’ll hear a click when the switch activates; if not, it might be faulty. For models with an inside light, see if the light stays lit after closing the door—if it does, the switch may not be working correctly. You can test this by pressing the switch manually to check if the light goes off.
If you have some basic electrical skills, you can replace the door switch yourself. After unplugging the dryer, remove the control panel or door frame to reach the switch and test it with a multimeter. If it’s defective, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install a new one.
If you’re not comfortable with electrical repairs or accessing tight spaces, calling a professional Appliance SD Repair technician is a safer and faster option.

3. The Dryer Is Too Full

Putting too many clothes in your washer or dryer can cause problems. When the dryer is overloaded, its motor might have trouble spinning the drum, which can activate a safety mechanism that halts operation. Overfilling the machine can also block airflow, leading to overheating. Good ventilation is crucial to keep the dryer from getting too hot. If it overheats, safety devices like thermal fuses may shut the machine off to avoid damage or fire risks.

4. There’s No Power

Both gas and electric dryers depend on electricity to run, so power problems can stop them from turning on. Start by making sure the dryer is securely plugged in and inspect the power cord for damage. If the cord shows signs of wear, like fraying or discoloration, it might need replacing because it could have overheated.
If the cord seems fine, the issue might be with the outlet. Test the outlet by plugging in a small device or using a multimeter to see if it’s supplying power. Another possible cause is a faulty terminal block, which interrupts the flow of electricity inside the dryer.
Also, check your circuit breaker or fuse box—if a breaker has tripped or a fuse has blown, power to the dryer could be cut off. Resetting the breaker or swapping out the fuse might restore power.

5. The Child Lock Is On

A dryer’s child lock is meant to stop unintended operation by locking the control panel. When this feature is turned on, none of the buttons or dials will work, preventing any changes or starts. So, even if the dryer has power and is functioning normally, it won’t respond to commands until the child lock is switched off.

6. The Thermal Fuse Is Blown

Sometimes, the problem causing your dryer to lose power comes from inside the machine. Many dryers have a thermal fuse that protects them from overheating. If the vents get blocked, this fuse can burn out, which will stop the dryer from working.
If you’re handy with electrical repairs, you might replace a blown fuse on your own. First, unplug the dryer and find the fuse—usually located near the blower or vent area behind the back panel. Test it with a multimeter to see if it’s still working. If it’s damaged, swap it out, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Usually, changing the fuse and cleaning the vents thoroughly will fix the problem and get your dryer running again.

7. The Control Board Has Failed

The control board acts as the dryer’s main control hub, interpreting user commands and sending instructions to parts such as the motor, heating element, and sensors. When this component fails, those signals don’t reach their destinations correctly.
If the control board is damaged, the dryer may not start, regulate heat, or cycle through settings as expected. Serving as the appliance’s “brain,” any issues with this board can cause the control panel to stop responding, prevent the machine from powering on, or result in erratic operation.

8. The Belt Is Broken or Worn Out

The drive belt is essential in a dryer, connecting the motor to the drum so it can spin and tumble your clothes. If this belt wears out or breaks, the motor might still run, but the drum won’t turn, stopping the dryer from working properly.
Some dryers have a sensor that detects a broken belt and prevents the machine from starting to avoid damage or overheating. Since the belt is under constant stress, it can slowly fray, stretch, or snap over time.
Regular checks can spot early signs of wear, allowing you to replace the belt before it fails completely. Replacing a dryer belt generally costs between $100 and $230.

9. The Thermostat Is Faulty

A dryer’s thermostat controls the heat to keep the temperature within safe limits. When it fails, the dryer might get too hot, causing the thermal fuse to blow and shutting the machine down.
A faulty thermostat can also give incorrect temperature readings, causing the dryer to believe it’s hotter than it actually is. Most dryers have safety mechanisms that stop them from running if temperatures rise too high. If you think the thermostat is the issue, it’s best to have a qualified technician inspect and fix the problem.

10. The “On” Button Doesn’t Work

With regular use, a dryer’s start switch or power button may wear down. If you’ve loaded your clothes, set the timer, pressed start, and the dryer fails to turn on, the button might be faulty. Testing it with a multimeter can confirm if it’s working, but if you’re uncertain, it’s best to call a technician to diagnose and replace the switch if needed.

11. The Timer Is Broken

The timer in a dryer regulates the duration of each drying cycle by controlling power to the motor and heating elements. It keeps the dryer running for the selected period and then automatically turns it off once the cycle ends.
If the timer is defective or broken, it won’t properly signal the start or finish of the cycle, which can disrupt the dryer’s operation.
A malfunctioning timer can also pose a safety hazard because it might not switch the dryer off when necessary, increasing the risk of overheating. To avoid this, dryers rely on safety mechanisms that may prevent the machine from starting if the timer isn’t functioning correctly, ensuring safe operation.

12. The Drive Motor Won’t Turn the Drum

The dryer’s motor drives the drum, making it spin to dry your clothes. If lint or debris gets inside, it can cause the motor to seize or overheat, preventing the drum from turning and stopping the dryer.
A humming noise when you press start, but no drum movement, usually indicates motor trouble. You can try unplugging the dryer and checking the motor for any obstructions. If that doesn’t fix it, calling an Appliance SD Repair professional is recommended.
Keeping the dryer vents clean regularly helps prevent motor issues and keeps the appliance running smoothly.