Clothes Dryer Won’t Turn On? Common Causes & Fixes

It might be frustrating when your clothes dryer unexpectedly stops working, especially if you have a ton of laundry to do. Before contacting a professional, you can troubleshoot the issue by knowing the potential causes, such as your dryer stopping in the middle of a cycle or not starting but having power.

1. Power Supply Issues

You should check the electrical connection first. When your dryer doesn’t have any light or power. Check your breaker box for tripped fuses and make sure the cord is securely connected. The breaker may cut off in response to a rapid power surge or excessive load.

2. Faulty Start Switch

The dryer start switch may be the cause if you press the button and nothing happens. This switch may eventually deteriorate, making it impossible for the dryer to start even while it is powered on. A technician can use a multimeter to test the switch and replace it if necessary.

3. Blown Thermal Fuse

One safety device that keeps a dryer from overheating is a thermal fuse. Your dryer won’t turn on at all if it blasts. This frequently occurs after heavy or prolonged loads when lint accumulation restricts airflow. This problem can be avoided by routinely cleaning the vent.

4. Motor or Control Board Problems

Sometimes a damaged control board or a failed motor leads the dryer to stop working in the middle of a cycle. Over time, these components may deteriorate, particularly if the dryer has been subjected to frequent overloads.

5. Door Switch Malfunction

Dryers won’t start if the door switch isn’t functioning correctly for safety concerns. The dryer won’t start the cycle if the door is closed and the machine doesn’t detect it.

When to Call a Professional

While checking the power cord or resetting a tripped breaker can be done at home, more complex issues such as replacing a dryer start switch, thermal fuse, or motor are best handled by experienced professionals. If your dryer stopped working after a heavy load, it could be a sign of overheating or a more serious mechanical problem that requires expert attention.

At Repair My Appliance, we bring over 30 years of hands-on experience in diagnosing and repairing dryers and other household appliances. Our certified technicians work with all major brands, including Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, GE, Maytag, and many more. Whether your dryer won’t start, stops mid-cycle, or shows no power at all, we have the knowledge and tools to get it running smoothly again—saving you time, money, and stress.