Why would my dryer just quit all the sudden?

Author: Rex Hansen  |  Last update: Monday, October 6, 2025

A faulty door switch, blown thermal fuse, defective start switch, or problems with the electronic control board or timer could be behind a dryer suddenly not starting.

Why did my dryer stop working out of nowhere?

Various things will cause a dryer not to start, including a blown thermal fuse, clogged vent, malfunctioning motor or control board, misaligned drum or rollers, engaged child lock, overloaded unit, broken or worn-out belt, broken start switch, defective door latch, tripped circuit breaker, faulty outlet, or an ...

Why did my dryer stop all of a sudden?

Dryer motor issues

If your dryer's motor is overheating, it can trigger the thermal overload switch, shutting down the machine to help prevent fire hazards.

How to fix a dryer that just stopped working?

Instructions
  1. Check the Plug. If the dryer won't start, check to be sure that the dryer is plugged in. ...
  2. Check the Breaker or Fuse. ...
  3. Inspect the Fuse, Switch, and Belt. ...
  4. Check the Temperature Sensor. ...
  5. Search for the Source of Unexpected Noise. ...
  6. Clean the Lint Filter. ...
  7. Inspect the Dryer Vents. ...
  8. Read Through the Manual.

Do most dryers have a reset button?

As a safety device, a dryer usually has a door switch that activates the working parts. Unless the door is properly closed, the dryer won't work, regardless of the settings on the control panel. Many dryers are equipped with a reset button on the control panel.

3 Things To Check when your Dryer won't turn on or start - REPAIR

What to check when dryer won t start?

7 common reasons your dryer won't start
  1. It's not getting power. ...
  2. The door switch isn't engaging. ...
  3. The thermal fuse is blown. ...
  4. A problem with the start switch. ...
  5. An issue with the drive belt. ...
  6. An obstruction or problem with the drive motor. ...
  7. A shorted main control board.

Can a dryer overheat and shut off?

The high-limit thermostat, or thermal fuse, is a safety feature that's designed to trip whenever the dryer reaches a dangerous temperature. Once the thermal fuse reaches its threshold, it will turn off the heating element or dryer.

Who to call if the dryer is not working?

If your dryer is broken, call a local dryer repair company to fix it. Hiring a local dryer repair pro offers several advantages: They're experts on dryer operation. They know how to stay safe while working with gas or electricity.

How long should a dryer last?

Clothes dryers typically last for about 10 to 13 years. If your dryer has been around for nearly a decade, you will likely be searching for a replacement soon. Ancient dryers should get the boot, as older machines can actually cost you more money. Newer, certified models use less energy, helping you save on costs.

What can cause a dryer to not turn on?

How to fix a dryer that won't start
  • “Controls Locked” indicator light is on. ...
  • Tripped circuit breaker. ...
  • Improperly pressed “Start” button. ...
  • Unlatched dryer door. ...
  • Incorrect cycle was selected. ...
  • Worn out drive belt. ...
  • Short in the main control board.

Why would a dryer short out?

One of the prime culprits is the mains filter, also called the interference suppressor. This is designed to prevent the machine's motor from interfering with other electrical components. These can bulge or short out from moisture, particularly if the dryer is fitted in a damp utility room or similar.

Why would a dryer just shut off?

As your dryer motor ages, wear and tear can cause it to get hotter during a cycle. Sometimes, all that extra heat can activate the thermal overload switch, which prevents a potential fire hazard and shuts off the machine. The motor may restart a few minutes later, once it's cooled down, but the problem won't disappear.

What is the most common dryer failure?

Dryer Shuts Off Quickly

Common issues include a broken motor relay, a malfunctioning push-to-start switch or timer, or a clogged exhaust vent that results in overheating. A malfunctioning electrical circuit board, a weakened door catch, or a broken door strike can be the cause.

Why did my dryer suddenly stop drying?

There are several reasons why your dryer may not be drying, including a clogged lint screen, issues with the vent hose or a clogged vent system. Properly installing and maintaining your dryer can help avoid some issues that can interfere with performance.

How do I know if my dryer is overheating?

How Do You Know if the Dryer is Too Hot? The tell-tale sign that your dryer is too hot is damage to your clothes. If you pull your clothes out of the dryer and notice that there are burn marks on them, your dryer is running far too hot. If your dryer is hot to the touch, that may be another sign of too much heat.

Can dryer fires happen when dryer is off?

A dryer can catch fire while it's not running if there are any problems in the dryer's electrical system. This may result in wires and components sparking when the unit has been shut down. Over time, lint buildup may cause heat sensors to get too hot, which could lead them to ignite the material.

Will the dryer start if the thermal fuse is blown?

A blown thermal fuse often prevents an electric dryer from starting. You'll find the thermal fuse on the blower housing. Unplug the dryer and check the thermal fuse for continuity. Replace the thermal fuse if the multimeter measures no continuity.

How much does it cost to replace a dryer fuse?

The cost to replace a thermal fuse on a dryer is $75 to $150 on average. The cost of a dryer thermal fuse is $5 to $10 for the part or up to $60 for OEM parts. This safety device stops the motor when the dryer overheats. No one can repair or reset a thermal fuse.

How to tell if a dryer thermostat is bad?

Depending on your dryer model, you may find the thermostat in different areas, such as near the heating element or the blower fan housing. Once you find it, remove the cover, and use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity. If the reading shows an open circuit, then the thermostat needs replacement.

Why is there no power to my dryer?

Check to make sure a household fuse has not blown or that a circuit breaker has tripped. Electric dryers use two household fuses or circuit breakers. Make sure both fuses are intact and tight, reset the circuit breaker, or replace the fuse if necessary. If the problem continues, call an electrician.

Is it worth repairing a dryer?

Dryer repair costs will vary depending on the issue. For example, it will cost much less to replace a dryer belt than a motor. That said, if your clothes dryer is more than halfway through its lifespan—7 years or more—and the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new one, you should consider replacing it.

Why has my dryer stopped?

Your machine might've automatically switched off due to overheating or a full reservoir (in the case of condensing dryers). Check to see if you can turn the drum by hand. If you can, the belt might have snapped. The drum or motor might have seized if it's stuck or doesn't spin easily.

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