Whirlpool Dryer Not Turning On: Here’s How to Troubleshoot

A Whirlpool dryer that refuses to turn on can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you rely on it to handle your laundry. In many cases, a Whirlpool replacement part may be necessary to restore your dryer to full functionality. Before you call a professional, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take on your own. This guide will walk you through common issues, explain the possible causes, and show you how to troubleshoot your Whirlpool dryer, potentially saving you both time and money.

Common Causes and Troubleshooting for Whirlpool Dryer Not Turning On

Here are the common causes and troubleshooting steps for a Whirlpool dryer not turning on.

1. Faulty Door Switch

Your Whirlpool dryer's door switch stops it from operating when the door is open. If this switch malfunctions, the dryer will fail to start even when the door appears to be closed properly.

How to Troubleshoot a Faulty Door Switch:

• Visual Inspection: Look for visible wear or damage to the door switch and latch. It may need replacing if it looks broken or worn out.

• Examine the door switch for continuity using a multimeter if you have one. If the door is closed and there’s no continuity, then it’s time to replace the switch. In this situation, you can look to buy a Whirlpool replacement part to guarantee that the new switch fits the model and type of dryer you have.

2. Blown Thermal Fuse

A blown thermal fuse is another common reason your Whirlpool dryer may not turn on. A safety element that keeps the dryer from overheating is the thermal fuse. When the fuse blows, it cuts power to the dryer, preventing it from operating until it’s replaced.

How to Troubleshoot a Blown Thermal Fuse:

• Locate the Fuse: The location of your thermal fuse will vary with your model, typically it will be near the blower wheel or on the vent duct. To find its location, refer to the user manual.

• Test with a Multimeter: Check the fuse for continuity with a multimeter. If it has no continuity, it’s blown and needs to be replaced. To be sure that it is compatible with your dryer model, use a Whirlpool replacement part.

3. Broken Start Switch

The cause of your dryer's failure to start could be a malfunctioning start switch if the door is closed and the power supply is undamaged. This switch signals the dryer to begin its cycle.

How to Troubleshoot a Broken Start Switch:

• Use a Multimeter to Check: Check the start switch's continuity with a multimeter. If it doesn't display continuity when pressed, it's broken and needs to be replaced.

• Replacing the Switch: You will need to access the control panel of the dryer to replace the start switch. Always disconnect the equipment before performing any repairs. If you are replacing the switch, use a Whirlpool replacement part so that it works properly.

4. Faulty Timer

The timer controls the cycle of the dryer, and if it malfunctions, the dryer may fail to start or won’t progress through its drying cycle.

How to Troubleshoot a Faulty Timer:

• Symptoms: If the dryer powers on but doesn’t start its drying cycle, or the timer doesn’t advance, it could be due to a malfunctioning timer.

• Testing the Timer: Use a multimeter to check the timer for continuity. If there’s no continuity when the timer should be sending power, it likely needs to be replaced.

• Replacing the Timer: Replacing the timer typically involves removing the control panel and disconnecting the old-timer. After installing the new one, test the dryer to see if the issue is resolved.

5. Tripped Circuit Breaker

While this may seem like a basic check, a tripped circuit breaker is a simple yet common cause of a dryer not turning on.

How to Troubleshoot a Tripped Circuit Breaker:

• Locate the Breaker Panel: Go to your home’s breaker panel and check if the breaker for the dryer has tripped.

• If the breaker has tripped, reset it by turning the switch to the "on" position. This will restore power to the dryer and should resolve the issue.

6. Heating Element (For Dryers That Turn On But Don’t Heat)

Your Whirlpool dryer may be turning on but not heating up because of a broken heating element. The heating element is responsible for generating heat to dry your clothes, and when it fails, the dryer may still operate but won’t be effective at drying.

How to Troubleshoot the Heating Element:

• Visual Inspection: Look for obvious damage to the heating element, such as burned spots or broken coils.

• Testing with a Multimeter: Check for continuity in the heating element using a multimeter. You will need to swap out the piece if it doesn't demonstrate continuity.

• Replacing the Heating Element: The dryer's front assembly or back panel may need to be removed to replace the heating element. It’s recommended to use a Whirlpool replacement part for the heating element to ensure proper fit and performance.

7. Reset the Dryer

Sometimes, resetting the dryer can resolve minor glitches in the system, especially if the appliance has experienced an electrical malfunction.

How to Reset Your Whirlpool Dryer:

• Unplug the Dryer: Take the dryer out of the electrical outlet.

• Wait for 5 Minutes: Allow the dryer to sit unplugged for about five minutes to reset its internal components.

• Plug It Back In: After waiting, plug the dryer back in and test it to see if it turns on.

You can quickly find and resolve the problem by following the instructions in this guide, which could save you time and money on repairs. Do not be afraid to seek professional assistance if the issue continues. With proper maintenance and quick troubleshooting, your Whirlpool dryer will be back to work in no time, keeping your laundry routine on track.

I'm an independent blogger dedicated to sharing practical tips and insights on home appliances. My goal is to help readers enhance the performance and longevity of their kitchen equipment.