Maytag Dryer: not working
What is this symptom?
Is your Maytag dryer not working? This common issue may manifest as a failure to start or run a cycle, with no motor action, drum movement, or response when you press the start button. Understanding the potential causes can help you troubleshoot effectively.
Important Tips for Maytag Models
- Many models include Control Lock and Wrinkle Shield features that can prevent starting if engaged
Possible Causes
Dryer door not fully closed or faulty door switch
How to Identify: Dryer does not start and there is no sound; door may feel loose or not latch securely
Part: Door latch / Door switch
Control Lock or incorrect setting engaged
How to Identify: Control Lock or child lock light illuminated; selected cycle delaying start (e.g., Wrinkle Shield
Part: Control panel settings
No power or electrical supply issue
How to Identify: Dryer shows no lights, and household outlet or breakers are off/tripped
Part: Power cord, circuit breaker, outlet
Faulty start switch
How to Identify: Dryer does not start despite correct settings and power; multimeter shows lack of continuity on start switch
Part: Start push button/switch
Faulty drive motor
How to Identify: Motor hums but drum doesn’t turn when attempting start
Part: Drive motor
Defective control board
How to Identify: No response from dryer after checking all simpler causes and power supply
Part: Electronic control board
DIY Solutions
Ensure door is securely closed and free of obstructions
- Open the dryer door and check for clothing or objects caught on the edge.
- Close the door firmly until it latches, then attempt to start the dryer.
Disable Control Lock and verify settings
- Look for Control Lock or child lock indicator lights on the control panel.
- Press and hold the designated Control Lock button (often Cycle Signal) for 3 seconds to disable it.
- Select a normal dry cycle and press Start firmly for 2–5 seconds.
Reset circuit breaker and check power supply
- Locate your home’s breaker panel.
- Check if the dryer’s circuit breaker has tripped; if so switch it off and then back on.
- Try plugging the dryer into another compatible outlet if safe to do so.
Test start switch with multimeter
- Unplug the dryer from the power source.
- Remove the dryer’s control panel to access the start switch.
- Disconnect the switch and use a multimeter to test for continuity.
- Replace the switch if it lacks continuity and reassemble.
Professional Repairs
Replace drive motor
Control board replacement
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Clean lint filter: Airflow restrictions that can contribute to overheating and related shutdown issues
Frequency: After every use -
Inspect vent hose: Vent obstructions that may lead to overheating and thermal fuse failure
Frequency: Every 6 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Maytag Dryer not working?
How do I fix Maytag Dryer not working myself?
How much does it cost to fix not working?
When should I call a technician for not working?
References & Sources
Community Analytical Insights
Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities
Can I Fix This Myself?
Common Issues Reported by Users
- Broken motor or motor pulley (2 mentions)
User Suggested Solutions
-
Replace broken pulley and belt using a parts kit
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
quit working; pulley-type thing that drives the belt was broken
A parts kit found on Amazon can fix the dryer, but no warranty is offered.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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