Quck answer
If your Whirlpool dryer won’t start, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to fix the issue:
1. Check the power supply: Make sure the dryer is properly plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
2. Check the door switch: The dryer won’t start if the door switch is faulty. Test it using a multimeter and replace if necessary.
3. Examine the thermal fuse: A blown thermal fuse can prevent the dryer from starting. Test it for continuity and replace if needed.
4. Inspect the start switch: If the start switch is defective, the dryer won’t start. Test it using a multimeter and replace if faulty.
5. Call a professional: If none of these steps resolve the issue, it’s best to contact a Whirlpool technician for further assistance.
Remember to always unplug the dryer before performing any repairs or inspections to ensure safety.
Whirlpool dryers are generally reliable and efficient machines, but sometimes they may fail to start. In most cases, this can be easily fixed by replacing a faulty component. Fortunately, most Whirlpool dryer parts can be easily found at appliance stores, so you don’t have to worry about waiting for a back-ordered part. Here’s how you can diagnose and repair your Whirlpool dryer if it won’t turn on.
Step 1
Check if your dryer is actually receiving power. Start by inspecting the breakers or fuses. If they are in good condition and none of the breakers are tripped, you should also check the outlet where the dryer is connected.
Slide the dryer plug out slightly to expose the prongs that fit into the socket. Use an ohmmeter to check if there’s 240 volts between the two prongs. Be careful not to touch the prongs or the leads of the meter. If there’s no voltage, the issue may be with the electrical wiring rather than the dryer itself. Consult a licensed electrician. If there’s 240 volts present, move on to the next step.
Step 2
Unplug the dryer and remove the rear panel. Take out the quarter-inch screws and keep them in a safe place. You should also remove the small terminal block cover if necessary. Set the panels aside.
Step 3
Locate the fuse near the back center of the dryer. It’s a white elongated plastic piece with two wires attached to it. You’ll also see a round disc-shaped component near it with four wires connected to it. This part is the thermostat.
Step 4
Detach one wire from the plastic fuse using pliers. Set your ohmmeter to the ohms or resistance setting. Perform a continuity test by checking if there’s continuity between the two prongs on the fuse. This test will confirm whether there’s a flow of current through the fuse.
If the fuse has no continuity, it needs to be replaced along with the thermostat. If there’s continuity, the issue may be more complex and it’s best to call a professional appliance technician.
FAQ
1. Why won’t my Whirlpool dryer start?
If your Whirlpool dryer won’t start, there could be a few possible reasons. First, check if the power cord is properly plugged into the outlet and if there is power in the house. If the power is fine, then it might be a problem with the door switch. Make sure the door is fully closed and the switch is not broken or damaged. Another common issue is a blown thermal fuse. This fuse acts as a safety measure to prevent overheating, so if it’s blown, the dryer won’t start. Check the thermal fuse and replace it if necessary.
2. How can I check if the power cord is working?
To check if the power cord is functioning properly, you can use a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the AC voltage setting and insert the probes into the prongs of the power cord. If you get a reading between 110-120 volts, then the power cord is working fine. However, if there is no voltage or a significantly lower reading, then the power cord might be faulty and needs to be replaced.
3. What should I do if the door switch is broken?
If the door switch of your Whirlpool dryer is broken, it will need to be replaced. Start by unplugging the dryer from the power source. Locate the door switch, which is usually located near the door opening. Remove any screws or clips holding the switch in place and disconnect the wires. Take note of the wire connections or take a picture for reference. Install the new door switch by connecting the wires and securing it with screws or clips. Finally, plug in the dryer and test if it starts when the door is closed.
4. How can I check the thermal fuse?
To check the thermal fuse in your Whirlpool dryer, you need to first unplug the appliance and locate the thermal fuse. It is usually found on the blower housing or exhaust duct. Use a multimeter to check for continuity by placing the probes on the terminals of the thermal fuse. If there is no continuity, then the thermal fuse is blown and needs to be replaced. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific model of your dryer when replacing the thermal fuse.
5. What other reasons could prevent my Whirlpool dryer from starting?
Aside from the power cord, door switch, and thermal fuse, there are a few other possible reasons why your Whirlpool dryer won’t start. One common issue is a faulty start switch. If the start switch is not working, it won’t send the signal to start the dryer. Another possibility is a broken belt. If the belt is broken, the motor won’t be able to turn the drum. Additionally, a malfunctioning control board or a faulty timer can also prevent the dryer from starting. It’s best to consult a professional technician if none of the previous solutions fix the problem.