If your Hotpoint dryer won't start or the dryer is not turning on, the most likely causes are a blown thermal fuse, a door that is not fully closed, or a faulty start switch, followed by a bad door switch, a failing control board, or an object caught in the blower wheel. A blown thermal fuse is the top culprit and usually means the exhaust vent is restricted, so check and clear the vent before replacing the fuse; you can test the fuse for continuity with a multimeter. Confirm the door is fully latched and listen for the door switch click when you press start. If the dryer hums but the drum does not turn, the start switch is less likely, but if you get no response at all the start switch may be bad and should be tested for continuity. Inspect the control board for visible damage and test for voltage to the drive motor if you have a wiring diagram. Also remove the blower cover to check for clothing jammed in the blower wheel. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part that fits your dryer.
01 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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?
The dryer hums but the drum won't turn. What is likely wrong?
How do I test the thermal fuse on my dryer?
Could the control board stop my dryer from turning on?
How do I find the right replacement part on RepairClinic.com?