Electrolux Dryer: not starting properly

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Electrolux dryer not starting properly? You might encounter issues like no response when pressing the start button, a flashing start light, or a delayed start countdown. This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including a door that isn't fully closed, a blown thermal fuse, or a faulty start switch.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Electrolux Models

Delayed Start and Child Lock features can prevent start on many models and must be disabled.
Electrolux support warns against using extension cords to avoid start issues.

Possible Causes

Door not fully closed or door switch failure

How to Identify: Start/Pause button may flash or the dryer shows a door error; dryer refuses to start until fully closed and latched with a click.

Part: Door switch/latch

Start button/Start switch issue

How to Identify: Pressing start yields no response; button may feel unresponsive; multimeter can confirm lack of continuity.

Part: Start button/switch

Blown thermal fuse

How to Identify: Dryer clicks or shows no start; thermal fuse blown due to overheating/vent blockage; multimeter shows no continuity.

Part: Thermal fuse

Delayed start or child lock enabled

How to Identify: Display shows countdown or padlock/LOC icon; dryer will start only after disabling delay or child lock.

Part: Control panel/settings

Power supply or breaker/fuse issue

How to Identify: Dryer has no lights or response; outlet may be dead; circuit breaker tripped or fuse blown.

Part: Household power/circuit

Control board/electronics failure

How to Identify: No start despite correct settings, power, and switches; visible board damage or lack of output to motor.

Part: Control board

DIY Solutions

Ensure door is fully closed and latched

Easy 1-2 minutes

Open dryer door completely.
Inspect for clothing blocking the latch.
Push door firmly until a clear click indicates latch engagement.
Press Start/Pause again.

Disable Delayed Start or Child Lock

Easy 1-3 minutes

Turn the dryer off then on to cancel Delayed Start.
If child lock is active, hold the two indicated buttons for several seconds to clear lock (consult manual for model specifics).
Press Start/Pause to begin cycle.

Check and reset power supply

Easy 5 minutes

Ensure dryer is plugged in firmly.
Test outlet with another device to confirm power.
Reset tripped circuit breaker or replace blown fuse.
Try starting dryer again.

⚠️ Safety First: Do not use extension cords.

Professional Repairs

Replace thermal fuse

Estimated Cost: $20 - $60

Replace start switch or door switch

Estimated Cost: $15 - $80

Control board diagnostics and replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400+

When to Call a Professional

Dryer still wonâ€™t start after checking door, lock/delay, power, and basic DIY checks

Thermal fuse or electrical component needs testing/replacement

Signs of control board failure or internal wiring issues

Visible damage or burning smell

Preventive Maintenance

Clean lint filter: Overheating that can blow thermal fuse and improve airflow
Frequency: After each use
Inspect and clean vent ducts: Vent blockage that leads to overheating and start issues
Frequency: Annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Electrolux Dryer not starting properly?

Common causes include a door that isn't fully closed, a blown thermal fuse, or issues with the start switch.

How do I fix Electrolux Dryer not starting properly myself?

Ensure the door is fully closed, disable delayed start or child lock, and check the power supply.

How much does it cost to fix not starting properly?

Professional repairs range from $15 for switches to $400+ for control board replacements.

When should I call a technician for not starting properly?

If basic troubleshooting fails or if the issue seems complex, contact a technician for assistance.

References & Sources

What should I do if my dryer does not start? Official

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

Faulty door switch preventing the dryer from starting
Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse affecting power supply
Malfunctioning start switch or control board issues

User Suggested Solutions

Check and replace the door switch if faulty. Open the dryer door, locate the door switch, and test it with a multimeter. If it doesn’t show continuity, replace it.
Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box. Reset the breaker or replace the blown fuse. Ensure the dryer is receiving adequate power.
Test the start switch and control board. Use a multimeter to check for continuity in the start switch. If it’s defective, replace it. If the control board is faulty, consider replacing it or consulting a professional.