Kenmore Dryer: not turning on

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore dryer isn't turning on, you may notice no lights, no motor noise, and no drum action when you press the start button. This issue can be frustrating and is often caused by power supply problems, a blown thermal fuse, or a faulty door switch. Identifying the cause quickly can save time and money.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore dryers can have belt switches that cut power when belt issues occur, affecting start behaviour
  • Electronic control board failures noted as cause of no start for some newer Kenmore models, recommend proper diagnosis

Possible Causes

Power supply issues (breaker, outlet, power cord)

How to Identify: Check if other devices work in the same outlet, inspect breaker panel for tripped breaker, check power cord for visible damage

Part: House circuit breaker / outlet / power cord

Blown thermal fuse

How to Identify: Dryer completely dead, no start response; test continuity with multimeter; no continuity indicates blown fuse

Part: Thermal fuse on blower housing

Faulty door switch

How to Identify: Dryer won’t start unless door switch clicks; no click or no continuity on test indicates door switch issue

Part: Door switch

Defective start switch

How to Identify: No response or no noise on pressing start; multimeter test shows no continuity

Part: Start switch

Control board failure

How to Identify: No start and no response even when power is confirmed; signs of damage on control board

Part: Electronic control board

Drive motor failure

How to Identify: No motor activity, may hear hum; motor may fail continuity tests

Part: Drive motor

DIY Solutions

Check power supply and reset breaker

Easy 5-15 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Ensure dryer is securely plugged in
  2. Check circuit breaker panel and reset any tripped breaker
  3. Try another device in the same outlet to confirm outlet functionality
⚠️ Safety First: Do not work on internal components during this check

Test and replace thermal fuse

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter
  1. Unplug the dryer
  2. Access blower housing and locate thermal fuse
  3. Test thermal fuse with multimeter for continuity
  4. Replace fuse if no continuity and reassemble
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug dryer before opening panels

Test door switch continuity

Moderate 20-45 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter
  1. Unplug dryer
  2. Access door switch assembly
  3. Press switch and test continuity with multimeter
  4. Replace switch if no continuity
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power disconnected

Test start switch

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, multimeter
  1. Unplug dryer
  2. Remove control panel to access start switch
  3. Test switch with multimeter for continuity when pressed
  4. Replace switch if defective
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power

Professional Repairs

Replace control board

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Drive motor replacement

Estimated Cost: $200 - $500

When to Call a Professional

No power after basic checks and breaker reset
Visible damage to wiring or control board
Uncertainty about safely testing internal components
Thermal fuse repeatedly blows after replacement

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter and vent: Overheating and thermal fuse blow-out
    Frequency: after every use/monthly
  • Inspect power cord: Power interruptions due to cord damage
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer not turning on?
Common causes include power supply issues, a blown thermal fuse, or a faulty door switch.
How do I fix Kenmore Dryer not turning on myself?
Check the power supply, test the thermal fuse, and ensure the door switch is functional.
How much does it cost to fix not turning on?
Professional repairs for control board replacement range from $150 to $400, while motor replacement costs between $200 and $500.
When should I call a technician for not turning on?
If DIY solutions fail or if you suspect a control board or motor issue, it's time to call a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Loose door switch (1 mentions)
  • Faulty door latch receiver (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and fix the door switch

    Success rate: 33.0%

  2. Inspect the door latch receiver for cracks

    Success rate: 33.0%
Analysis based on 3 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Kenmore Elite HE4 Electric Dryer suddenly won't turn on. Con...
  2. Kenmore Dryer, not turning on
  3. Dryer stopped working, could it be a loose door switch? They...

Community Discussions

dryer recently stopped working and won't turn on at all

The issue was a loose door switch which was fixed.

DIY View on Reddit →

suddenly won't turn on, control panel lights are all off, buttons don't do anything

Check the door latch receiver for cracks that may prevent the door from closing properly.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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