If your Speed Queen dryer won't start, the most likely causes are a blown thermal fuse, a door that is not fully closed, or a faulty start switch, with a bad door switch, control board failure, or an item stuck in the blower wheel also possible. A blown thermal fuse is the top culprit and usually means the dryer overheated, often because the exhaust vent is restricted, so check and clean the vent before replacing the fuse. If the dryer is completely dead, test the thermal fuse and start switch with a multimeter; if the dryer hums but never turns, an obstruction in the blower or a seized motor may be the problem. Check that the door latches and listen for the door switch click, and visually inspect the control board for burn marks if other checks fail. For the exact replacement part you need, enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the correct thermal fuse, start switch, door switch, control board, blower wheel, or motor for your specific dryer.
01 - Speed Queen 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 - Speed Queen 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 or turn on. What should I check first?
The dryer hums but the drum won't turn. What causes that?
How do I test the dryer thermal fuse and when should I replace it?
Nothing happens when I press Start and the dryer makes no noise. Could the start switch or control board be bad?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?