When your Whirlpool dryer won’t turn on, it can be frustrating, especially when the laundry pile is growing.
But fear not, as this guide is crafted to turn this perplexing issue into a straightforward fix.
With years of expertise in appliance troubleshooting, I’m here to walk you through the most common reasons and simple solutions for your Whirlpool dryer’s refusal to start.
Common reasons a Whirlpool dryer won’t start include a blown thermal fuse, control lock activation, incorrect settings, an unlatched door, and motor or start button issues.
Table of Contents
How to Fix Whirlpool Dryer Not Starting?
Addressing the problem of a Whirlpool dryer not turning on involves a systematic approach to diagnosing and fixing the underlying issues.
1. Power Supply Issues
Power issues are not always as straightforward as they seem. Your Whirlpool dryer might not start due to various electrical issues that might not be immediately apparent.
These can range from something as simple as a loose plug to more complex issues like a tripped circuit breaker.
Each scenario indicates a different aspect of electrical inadequacy, which needs to be addressed to restore your dryer’s functionality.
How to Fix:
Start by checking the basics: ensure the power cord is firmly connected to a suitable wall outlet, avoiding using extension cords, which can lead to power fluctuations.
Next, move to your home’s electrical panel. Look for any tripped breakers and reset them to reestablish a stable power supply.
This step is crucial not just for the dryer’s operation but also for your safety.
2. Control/Child Lock Activated
Modern Whirlpool dryers have safety features like a Control Lock or Child Lock.
These functions, while beneficial in preventing unintended use, especially around children, can be a source of confusion when they inadvertently get activated.
This feature effectively makes the control panel unresponsive, leading to the assumption that the dryer is malfunctioning.
Easy Fix:
Reactivating your dryer’s control panel is quite straightforward. Locate the Control Lock or Child Lock button on your dryer. Press and hold this button for a few seconds.
This action disengages the lock feature, bringing your dryer’s controls to life.
It’s a swift fix that reinstates full control over your appliance, ensuring it’s ready to use when needed.
3. Incorrect Dryer Setting
Choosing the wrong setting on your Whirlpool dryer can be a subtle yet significant hindrance to its operation.
Many users may not realize that settings like Timed Dry or Wrinkle Control have specific functions that might not align with every drying need.
These specialized modes are designed for particular types of laundry or drying conditions and might not activate the dryer in the usual way.
It can also lead to a Whirlpool dryer not spinning issue.
Easy Fix:
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with your Whirlpool dryer’s various settings.
Understand that each setting serves a unique purpose, whether dealing with delicate fabrics, preventing wrinkles, or providing a quick dry. Match these settings with your current laundry load.
For instance, heavier fabrics might require a more robust drying cycle, whereas delicate items might need a gentler touch.
Adjusting these settings to suit your specific laundry needs ensures efficient drying and extends the lifespan of your clothes and the dryer itself.
4. Unlatched Door
An unlatched dryer door might seem like a minor issue. Still, it’s a critical safety feature to prevent the dryer from operating under unsafe conditions.
An unlatched door could result from simple oversights like clothing items obstructing the door or more significant issues like a damaged latch mechanism.
This safety feature ensures the dryer operates only when the door is securely closed, preventing potential hazards.
An unlatched door can also result in the Whirlpool dryer not heating properly.
Easy Fix:
Begin fixing the Whirlpool dryer not turning on by inspecting the dryer door area. Look for and remove any obstructions that might prevent the door from closing fully.
Regularly clearing out lint and debris from the door seal can also be helpful. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, examine the door latch mechanism for any signs of wear or damage.
Replacing a faulty door latch is a relatively straightforward process that can be done with basic tools, ensuring the door closes securely and safely triggers the dryer to start.
5. Damaged Start Button
A malfunctioning start button on your Whirlpool dryer is more than a mere inconvenience; it’s a fundamental issue that prevents the dryer from initiating its cycle.
Over time, the start button can wear out or become damaged, leading to a lack of response when pressed.
This situation might lead to unnecessary service calls or assumptions of more severe problems with the dryer.
Easy Fix:
Addressing this requires a bit of technical insight. Equip yourself with a multimeter, a versatile tool in appliance troubleshooting.
Carefully test the start button for continuity, a measure of whether an electrical path is complete.
A lack of continuity indicates a need for replacement. If you’re comfortable with basic electrical repairs, replacing the start button is a manageable task.
However, if you’re uncertain, seeking professional help is advisable to ensure the repair is done safely and effectively.
6. Blown Thermal Fuse
A blown thermal fuse is a significant yet often overlooked cause of the Whirlpool dryer’s stopped working.
Designed as a safety device, the thermal fuse cuts off power to the dryer to prevent overheating.
Overcurrent or excessive heat can cause the thermal fuse to blow, rendering the dryer non-functional.
Easy Fix:
The first step is to locate the thermal fuse, typically found in the exhaust path. Using a multimeter, check for continuity.
A lack of continuity clearly indicates that the fuse has blown and needs replacement.
Remember, a blown thermal fuse is often a symptom of another issue, such as clogged vents or an overworked motor.
After replacing the fuse, check and clean your dryer vents to prevent future occurrences.
7. Faulty Control Board
The control board in your Whirlpool dryer is akin to its brain, managing various functions and cycles. A faulty control board is a less common but more complex problem.
It can lead to various issues, including the dryer not starting. Damage to the board can occur due to power surges, age, or component failures.
Easy Fix:
Troubleshooting a Whirlpool dryer’s control board issue starts with a visual inspection for any signs of damage, like burn marks or swollen capacitors.
If you suspect the control board is the issue, but visual inspection doesn’t confirm it, you might need a professional’s diagnostic tools.
Replacing a control board is a significant repair and often the last resort after ruling out all other possibilities.
It’s recommended to seek professional assistance for this repair to ensure accuracy and safety.
8. Drive Motor Malfunction
The drive motor is the heart of your Whirlpool dryer, powering the drum and fan. When this motor malfunctions, it can halt the entire drying process.
Wear and tear over time, or a lack of proper maintenance, can lead to motor failure. Symptoms might include unusual noises or the motor struggling to start.
Easy Fix:
Before concluding that the motor is the issue, eliminate other simpler causes like the thermal fuse or switches.
Once these are ruled out, focus on the motor. Inspect it for signs of wear or damage.
Testing the motor with a multimeter can confirm its status. If the motor is indeed at fault, replacing it can be a complex task and might require professional assistance.
Check out the following troubleshooting blogs if you have the same problem but a different dryer brand:
- Troubleshooting Samsung Dryer Not Starting
- Fixing Electrolux Dryer Not Turning On
- Fixing the GE Dryer Not Starting
Final Words
We’ve gone through the common reasons why your Whirlpool dryer won’t start, providing practical and straightforward solutions.
From checking the power supply to troubleshooting the control board, this guide aims to empower you with the knowledge to tackle these problems head-on.
Equipped with this information, you’re better equipped to address the issue confidently and precisely.
By following these steps, you can often avoid costly service calls and enjoy resolving the problem yourself.
Here’s to getting your Whirlpool dryer up and running smoothly, ensuring your laundry routine remains uninterrupted.
Steven Settles is an ISCET-certified master in appliance repair. He has aced the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam, showcasing his exceptional diagnostic and repair skills. With an in-depth understanding of the latest repair technologies and a keen eye on evolving industry standards, Steven is a go-to expert for any appliance issue.