Whirlpool dryer not starting

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dryer not starting issue

How is the not starting problem fixed?

Correcting most not starting problems usually involves replacing the thermal fuse, door switch or drum belt. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Why is my Whirlpool dryer not starting?

Whirlpool Gas Dryer Troubleshooting

When your Whirlpool gas dryer won't start or run, it could have a bad door switch, a broken start switch or an issue with the power supply.

Follow the safe DIY troubleshooting steps in this video to find and fix the cause of your Whirlpool dryer not starting:

Check for electrical power

Open the dryer door and check if the light inside the dryer turns on. If it doesn’t turn on, check the house circuit breaker. Try resetting the breaker to make sure it’s not tripped. If that doesn’t work, check your power cord and make sure the power socket works.

Test the Dryer Door Switch

Once you’ve confirmed that the dryer is getting power, with the dryer door closed, set a Timed Drying cycle and listen for the faint sound of the timer motor running inside the console. If the timer motor runs and the light comes on when you open the door, you know that the door switch is okay. You can skip ahead to the next segment where we’ll show you how to check the start switch.

If not, check the door switch with a multimeter next. For safety, always make sure to disconnect the power by unplugging the dryer before you check continuity. To access the door switch, pull out the lint screen. Remove the screws that secure the lint screen housing to the top panel. Release the clips and lift the top panel to access the door switch. Unplug the door switch from the wire harness.

With the dryer door closed, put your meter leads on the door switch wires that connect to the blue and white wires on the other end of the plug. You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance. If you measure no continuity, then the door switch is broken and needs to be replaced.

Here’s a video that shows how to replace the dryer door switch:

Check the push-to-start switch

The next thing to look at is the start switch. Reassemble the dryer and then plug it back in. Open the door and push the door switch in. While holding the door switch in, push the start switch. You should hear a click as the relay engages. Then release the door switch and you should hear a click as the relay disengages. If you heard the clicks, the start switch is probably okay.

If you didn’t hear the clicks, check continuity through the push-to-start switch.

With the dryer unplugged, remove the console back panel. Unplug the wires from the start switch. Have someone hold the start switch in and check resistance on the spades for the light blue wires.

You should measure near 0 ohms of resistance with the start button pressed in. If you measure no continuity, then you’ll need to replace the push-to-start switch.

If all of the components have checked out okay, then the motor windings or internal centrifugal switch could be defective. You should get a qualified technician to check these issues.

Electric Whirlpool Dryer Troubleshooting

Several things could keep your Whirlpool electric dryer from starting, including a blown thermal fuse, a bad door switch, a broken start switch or an issue with your power supply.

This video shows a few easy tests you can run to find out what is causing the problem:

If you’re unable to find the cause of the starting problem on your own, schedule dryer repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix your Whirlpool dryer.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dryer that is not starting

When the dryer is not starting it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

What to look out for with a dryer not starting diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dryer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

Troubleshooting Different Whirlpool Dryer Models That Are Not Starting

When your Whirlpool dryer won't start, it can be incredibly frustrating. Understanding the specific issues related to different models can help diagnose and potentially resolve the problem more efficiently. Below, we'll cover common issues and solutions for the Whirlpool Cabrio, Duet, and Thin Twin dryer models.

Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Not Starting

The Whirlpool Cabrio dryer is a popular model known for its advanced features, but like any appliance, it can experience issues that prevent it from starting. Common reasons for a Whirlpool Cabrio dryer not starting include problems with the thermal fuse, door switch, or control board.

For a Whirlpool Cabrio dryer sensing but not starting, it’s often due to a faulty door switch or thermal fuse. The door switch must engage properly for the dryer to operate. If the dryer senses the door is open, it will not start. Additionally, a blown thermal fuse will interrupt the power flow, causing the dryer to remain unresponsive. Regular maintenance, including checking these components, can prevent issues where the Whirlpool Cabrio dryer won’t start.

Whirlpool Duet Dryer Won’t Start

The Whirlpool Duet dryer is another reliable model, but it’s not immune to start-up issues. If your Whirlpool Duet dryer won’t start, it could be due to problems with the thermal fuse, door switch, or control panel.

A Whirlpool Duet dryer sensing but not starting problem indicates an issue with the moisture sensor or control board. This model features advanced sensors that can sometimes malfunction, leading to the dryer not starting. Another potential problem could be a defective thermal fuse, which is a safety device designed to protect the dryer from overheating. For Whirlpool Duet steam dryer not starting issues, it might be related to the steam function's additional components, such as the water inlet valve or steam generator.

Whirlpool Thin Twin Dryer Not Starting

The Whirlpool Thin Twin dryer is designed for smaller spaces but can still encounter start-up issues similar to other models. For a Whirlpool Thin Twin dryer not starting issue, it’s essential to check the usual suspects: the thermal fuse, door switch, and control board.

In some cases, the Whirlpool dryer does not start due to a problem with the dryer’s power supply. Ensure that the dryer is properly plugged in and that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If the dryer is receiving power but still won’t start, it’s time to check the thermal fuse and door switch. A Whirlpool dryer sensing but won’t start issue often points to a problem with these components. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent these problems from occurring.

By understanding the specific issues and solutions for different Whirlpool dryer models, you can more effectively troubleshoot and resolve start-up problems. If you're unable to diagnose or fix the issue, consider reaching out to a professional technician for assistance. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will keep your Whirlpool dryer running smoothly for years to come.
Pressing Start on a Whirlpool dryer but getting no response often signals a bad latch or fuse. Simple resets may overlook deeper electrical malfunctions. Save time by opting for dryer repair near me. Swift diagnoses and fixes keep laundry moving smoothly.