If your Samsung dryer won't start or is not turning on, the most likely culprit is a blown thermal fuse, usually caused by a restricted vent; test the fuse for continuity with a multimeter and clean the vent before replacing it. A door that is not fully closed is an easy check and often overlooked, so clear any obstruction and listen for the door switch click. Next suspects are the start switch and the door switch; if the dryer hums but does not run the start switch is less likely, but if there is no response test those switches for continuity. Faulty control boards can prevent the motor from getting voltage, and a visual inspection of the board or voltage checks at the motor will tell you if the board is at fault. Finally, a piece of clothing stuck in the blower wheel can bind the drum and keep the motor from starting. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement thermal fuse, switch, control board, blower wheel, or other parts for your dryer and get step by step repair guidance.
01 - Samsung 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...he dryer venting when replacing a blown thermal fuse.
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Since the dryer will not start with the door open, confirm the door is fully closed and remove anything that is obstructing the door.
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03 - Samsung 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.
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.
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.
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 does a blown thermal fuse stop my dryer from starting and how do I test it?
My dryer hums but the drum won't turn. Is the start switch bad?
The dryer door won't close or the dryer acts like the door is open. How do I test the door switch or latch?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?