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HomeRepair HelpKitchenAid Dryer RepairKitchenAid Dryer won't start Repair
KitchenAid Dryer won't start
If your KitchenAid dryer won't start, the most likely cause is a blown thermal fuse, usually the result of a restricted exhaust vent; check and clean the venting and test the thermal fuse for continuity with a multimeter before replacing it. Next, confirm the door is fully closed and nothing is obstructing the latch, since a door not fully closed will prevent the dryer from turning on. If the dryer does not respond at all the start switch could be at fault, but if the motor hums without the drum turning the start switch is probably fine. Listen for the door switch click when you shut the door and test that switch for continuity if you do not hear it. A faulty control board can also stop a dryer from starting, so inspect the board for damage and check for voltage to the drive motor. Finally, check the blower wheel and blower cover for clothing or debris that can jam the motor. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part and step-by-step repair parts and guides for your dryer.
01 - KitchenAid Dryer Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse is a safety device designed to protect the dryer from overheating. The fuse is located on the blower housing or at the dryer’s heat source such as the heating element on electric dryers or at the burner on gas models. The fuse should be closed for continuity meaning it has a continuous electrical path through it when good. If overheated the fuse will have no continuity meaning the electrical path is broken and the fuse has blown. A multimeter can be used to test it for continuity. Be aware that a blown thermal fuse is an indication of a restricted exhaust vent from the dryer to the outside. Always check t...
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Top Solution
02 - Door is not fully closed
Since the dryer will not start with the door open, confirm the door is fully closed and remove anything that is obstructing the door.
Top Solution
03 - KitchenAid Dryer Start Switch
To determine if the start switch is defective, attempt to start the dryer. If the dryer hums but does not start, the start switch is not at fault. If the dryer does not respond or make any noise, the start switch could be at fault. Use a multimeter to test the start switch for continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, replace it.
Highly Likely
04 - KitchenAid Dryer Door Switch
The door switch activates when the dryer door is closed. On most dryers, the door switch makes an audible clicking sound when it activates. To determine if the door switch is working, try starting your dryer and then listen for the “click.” If the door switch makes a clicking sound, it is probably not defective. If you don’t hear a click, use a multimeter to use the door switch for continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, replace it.
Common
05 - KitchenAid Dryer Control Board
A dryer's control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If the board is defective, it may not allow the dryer to start. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component. You can also use a multimeter to test for voltage reaching the drive motor after reviewing the dryer's wiring diagram.
Common
06 - Object stuck in blower wheel
If the dryer won’t start, an article of clothing may have gotten past the lint screen and is caught in the blower wheel. When this happens the drive motor will either hum but won’t start or will make a lot of noise when trying to start. The blower cover will need to be removed to check for obstructions. If the blower wheel is damaged it will need to be replaced.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
My dryer won't start. What should I check first?
How do I test the thermal fuse and what does a blown fuse mean?
Dryer hums or makes grinding noise when I press start. Could something be stuck?
How can I tell if the start switch, door switch, or control board is bad?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic to find the right replacement part?
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