When your Kenmore dryer refuses to start, it can be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, this troubleshooting guide will help you identify the common causes and resolve the issue with minimal hassle. Below are detailed steps for diagnosing and fixing the issue.

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

The first thing to check is the power supply. If the dryer isn’t receiving power, it won’t start. Here’s what you should do:

• Verify the Dryer is Plugged In: Make sure the dryer is securely plugged into a working outlet.
• Check the Circuit Breaker: If the dryer is plugged in but still not working, check your home's circuit breaker. Reset it if tripped.
• Test the Outlet: Use a voltage tester or plug another device into the outlet to confirm it is functional.

Step 2: Inspect the Door Switch

The door switch prevents the dryer from starting if the door is open. If it’s malfunctioning, the dryer won’t start.

• Listen for a Click: Open and close the door firmly. If you don’t hear a click, the switch might be faulty.
• Test the Door Switch: Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there’s no continuity, the switch needs to be replaced.
• Child Lock: If the dryer has a child lock, ensure it is deactivated as it may prevent the dryer from starting.

Step 3: Test the Thermal Fuse

If the thermal fuse is blown, it will prevent the dryer from starting. It’s a safety feature that protects against overheating.

• Locate the Thermal Fuse: Typically located on the blower housing or near the heating element.
• Test with a Multimeter: Set your multimeter to ohms and check the fuse for continuity. If no continuity is found, replace the fuse.
• Replace the Fuse: Replace the blown fuse with one that’s compatible with your Kenmore dryer model.

Step 4: Inspect the Start Switch

The start switch is responsible for starting the dryer. If it’s faulty, the dryer may not start, though you may hear a clicking sound.

• Test the Start Switch: Press the start button and listen for a clicking sound. If no click, the switch may be defective.
• Test for Continuity: Use a multimeter to test the switch. No continuity means it needs replacing.
• Replace the Start Switch: If faulty, replace it with a new one that’s compatible with your dryer model.

Step 5: Check the Drive Belt

The drive belt turns the drum. If it’s broken, the motor will run but the drum won’t turn.

• Visually Inspect the Belt: Look for signs of damage or looseness.
• Check the Belt Switch: In some models, a broken belt may trip the belt switch. If intact, check for continuity.
• Replace the Belt: If damaged, replace the belt with a new one.

Step 6: Inspect the Drive Motor

If the motor is defective, the dryer may fail to start or the drum won’t turn. Listen for a humming sound when starting the dryer.

• Test the Motor: Use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there’s no continuity, replace the motor.
• Replace the Motor: If defective, replacing the motor may require professional assistance.

Step 7: When to Call a Professional

If all the above steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to consult a professional technician for more complex issues like the control board or motor capacitor.

• Call a Technician: A certified technician can assist with diagnosing and fixing issues like control board or motor capacitor problems.
• Sears Protection Agreement: If applicable, contact Sears for service and repairs under your agreement.

Commonly Asked Questions About Kenmore Dryer Not Starting

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions related to Kenmore dryers not starting:

1. Why is my Kenmore dryer not turning on despite being plugged in?

Several issues could be causing this. Check for power issues, a faulty door switch, start switch problems, or a blown thermal fuse.

• Power Issues: Ensure it’s plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
• Faulty Door Switch: Check for continuity in the door switch.
• Blown Thermal Fuse: Test and replace the fuse if necessary.

2. How can I check if my thermal fuse is blown?

Test the thermal fuse with a multimeter. A blown fuse will show no continuity.

• Locate the Fuse: Typically near the blower housing or heating element.
• Test with a Multimeter: If no continuity, replace the fuse.

3. Can I replace the thermal fuse and start switch myself?

Yes, you can replace both parts with basic tools. Be sure to unplug the dryer and use a multimeter to test the parts for continuity.

4. What should I do if my dryer starts but doesn’t heat?

If your dryer starts but doesn’t heat, the problem could be with the thermal fuse or heating element.

• Test the Thermal Fuse: Check and replace if blown.
• Inspect the Heating Element: If defective, replace it.

5. Why does my dryer make a humming noise but not start?

The motor could be malfunctioning, or there may be an issue with the drive belt or start switch.

• Inspect the Drive Belt: Check for damage and replace if needed.
• Test the Motor: Check for continuity.

6. How do I test the drive belt?

Inspect the belt visually and check for damage. Replace it if necessary.

7. What is the function of the control board, and how can I test it?

The control board controls the dryer’s functions. If faulty, it may prevent the dryer from starting.

• Test the Control Board: Use a multimeter to test for continuity.

8. Can I replace the motor or control board myself?

Replacing the motor or control board can be complex and may require professional assistance.

9. Why is my dryer making a clicking noise but not starting?

If your dryer is making a clicking noise but not starting, the issue could be with the start switch, thermal fuse, or motor. The clicking noise usually comes from these components, indicating they may be malfunctioning.

• Test the Start Switch: Check for continuity. If faulty, replace it.
• Inspect the Thermal Fuse: If the fuse is blown, replace it and clean the vent system.
• Check the Motor: If the motor is clicking but not starting, it may need replacement.

10. Why is my Kenmore dryer not heating?

If your dryer is running but not heating, check the thermal fuse, heating element, and vent system. A faulty heating element or clogged vent may be preventing proper heat generation.

• Test the Heating Element: Check for continuity and replace if necessary.
• Inspect the Thermal Fuse: Replace if blown and ensure the vent system is clean.
• Check the Vent System: Clean the vent system to restore airflow.