Dryer Suddenly Stopped Working: Tips To Troubleshoot The Issue

Customer complained their dryer had been squeaking for "a few weeks

Introduction

A dryer is one of the most essential appliances in a household. It makes our lives easier by drying our clothes within a short time. However, like any other machine, dryers may develop faults and stop working without any warning. This can be frustrating, especially when you have a pile of wet clothes waiting to be dried. In this article, we will discuss some tips to troubleshoot a dryer that has suddenly stopped working.

Check the Power Supply

The first thing to check is the power supply. Ensure that the dryer is properly plugged into the electrical outlet and that the outlet is functioning correctly. You can use a voltage tester to check if the outlet is supplying power. If the outlet is not working, try plugging the dryer into another outlet.

Check the Circuit Breaker

If the outlet is functioning correctly, check the circuit breaker. A tripped circuit breaker can cause the dryer to stop working. Check the circuit breaker panel and look for a tripped breaker. If you find one, reset it and try running the dryer again.

Check the Door Switch

The door switch is a safety feature that prevents the dryer from starting if the door is open. If the door switch is faulty, the dryer may not start even when the door is closed. You can test the door switch with a multimeter. If the switch is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Check the Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device that prevents the dryer from overheating. If the thermal fuse is blown, the dryer may not start. You can test the thermal fuse with a multimeter. If the thermal fuse is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Check the Drive Belt

The drive belt is responsible for turning the drum of the dryer. If the belt is broken, the dryer will not start. You can check the drive belt by opening the dryer and looking for any signs of wear or damage. If the belt is broken, replace it with a new one.

Check the Motor

The motor is the heart of the dryer. If the motor is faulty, the dryer will not start. You can test the motor with a multimeter. If the motor is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Check the Timer

The timer controls the duration of the drying cycle. If the timer is faulty, the dryer may not start or may stop working mid-cycle. You can test the timer with a multimeter. If the timer is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Check the Control Board

The control board is responsible for controlling the different functions of the dryer. If the control board is faulty, the dryer may not start or may not function properly. You can test the control board with a multimeter. If the control board is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a dryer that suddenly stops working can be frustrating. However, by following the tips discussed in this article, you can troubleshoot the issue and get your dryer up and running again. Remember, safety should always come first when working with electrical appliances. If you are not comfortable troubleshooting the issue, it is best to seek the help of a professional.