- Check the power source: Before you start troubleshooting, make sure your Kenmore dryer is plugged in and receiving power. If it’s not, check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if a switch has been tripped or a fuse has blown.
- Inspect the start button: The start button may be faulty or damaged. Check to see if it’s loose or stuck in place. If it is, try cleaning it with a soft cloth and some rubbing alcohol. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the button.
- Examine the door switch: The door switch is an important safety feature that prevents the dryer from running when the door is open. If this switch is malfunctioning, it can prevent the start button from working. Test the switch by opening and closing the door while listening for a clicking sound. If you don’t hear anything, you may need to replace the switch.
- Check for other issues: There are several other components that can cause problems with your Kenmore dryer’s start button, including faulty thermal fuses, broken belts, and malfunctioning timers. If none of these solutions work, it may be time to call in a professional repair technician.
Is your Kenmore dryer giving you trouble? Specifically, is the start button not working? If so, you may be feeling frustrated and inconvenienced. After all, laundry is a chore that most of us dread enough as it is without having to deal with malfunctioning appliances.
But fear not, because there are solutions to this problem. In this article, we’ll explore some potential causes for why your Kenmore dryer’s start button isn’t functioning properly. We’ll also give you some tips on how to troubleshoot the issue and potentially fix it yourself. Don’t let a faulty start button get in the way of getting your laundry done efficiently – read on to find out how to solve this problem!
The Quick Answer:
Possible reasons for a Kenmore dryer start button not working include power supply problems, a broken dryer belt, or a defective thermal fuse. To fix power supply issues, check the circuit breaker in the electrical panel and reset it as necessary. For a broken belt, unplug the machine and replace with a new one following manufacturer instructions. To test for a defective thermal fuse, use a multimeter to check for continuity.
Possible Reasons for Kenmore Dryer Start Button Not Working
Power Supply Problems
One of the most common reasons why a Kenmore dryer start button may not work is due to issues with the power supply. If you have an electric dryer, it requires 240-volt power supply. If the circuit breaker for your home’s dryer outlet trips or if the fuses on your electrical panel blow, it could cause a loss of power to your dryer and make it appear that the start button is not working.
Solution:
The first thing to check is if other appliances in your home are working. This will help you determine whether there is a problem with the power supply or not. If other appliances are also out, then it’s likely that there’s a problem with your home’s electricity and you need to call an electrician immediately. However, if only your dryer is out, then check the circuit breaker in your electrical panel and reset it as necessary.
Broken Dryer Belt
Another reason why your Kenmore dryer start button may not be working properly could be due to a broken belt. The belt on your dryer helps turn the drum when you press the start button so that clothing items can tumble around inside during the drying process.
Solution:
To fix this issue, unplug the machine from its power source and remove its front panel. You should see a belt wrapped around the drum and pulleys at either end of it. Check to see if any part of the belt has broken off or come loose from its designated position. If this is indeed what happened, replace with a new belt following manufacturer instructions.
Defective Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse works as a safety measure on Kenmore dryers by preventing overheating inside of them which can lead to fires. If the thermal fuse is defective or blown, your dryer may not start.
Solution:
To check if this is the issue, use a multimeter to test for continuity. If there’s no continuity when you touch the leads of the multimeter to both sides of the fuse, it means that it’s blown and needs replacement. Replace with a new thermal fuse following manufacturer instructions.
Troubleshooting the Kenmore Dryer Start Button
Clean Lint Filter
One of the easiest ways to troubleshoot issues with your Kenmore dryer start button is by checking whether its lint filter is clean or clogged with lint. A clogged lint filter can cause overheating inside of your machine which could prevent it from starting.
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Solution:
Clean your lint filter regularly after every use, especially if you dry clothes that produce a lot of lint such as towels or blankets.
Check Door Switch
The door switch on your Kenmore dryer acts as a safety mechanism so that it won’t run when you open its door during operation. However, if this switch becomes loose or faulty, it can cause problems with your dryer’s start button.
Solution:
To check if this is indeed what happened, try opening and closing the door multiple times while pressing on the start button. If nothing happens despite hearing clicks from within then chances are high that there’s an issue with the door switch. You’ll need to replace it following manufacturer instructions.
Fixing the Kenmore Dryer Start Button Without a Technician
If you’re experiencing issues with your Kenmore dryer start button but don’t want to call in a technician just yet, there are several things you can try before doing so.
– Double-check that power supply isn’t faulty by testing other appliances in your home.
– Clean the lint filter and ensure it’s not clogged with lint.
– Try resetting circuit breaker on electrical panel
– Check if door switch is faulty or loose
– Replace the thermal fuse if there’s no continuity detected
By following these troubleshooting steps, you may be able to fix the issue without involving a technician. However, if none of these solutions work, then it’s best to call in an expert for diagnosis and repair.
Faulty Power Supply and Kenmore Dryer Start Button Failure
If there’s a power supply problem, it can cause your Kenmore dryer start button to fail. A dryer needs 240-volt power supply to function correctly. If you’re experiencing issues with multiple appliances in your home, then it could indicate that there’s an electricity supply problem.
Test the Power Supply
To test whether this is the issue, check other appliances around your home such as light bulbs or electric fans. If they’re not working, then something is wrong with your home’s electricity supply and you need to call an electrician immediately.
Solution:
However, if only your dryer is affected by this issue then it’s likely due to a tripped circuit breaker or blown fuses on electrical panel. Check them and reset as necessary.
Replacing a Faulty Kenmore Dryer Start Button
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps but still have issues with your Kenmore dryer start button, replacing it might be necessary.
Ordering Parts
Before ordering any parts, confirm that you’re purchasing the correct one for your machine by checking its model number. You can find this number inside of its door or back panel.
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Solution:
Once you’ve confirmed which part you require for replacement, order online or from a local appliance parts store. Ensure that you have the tools necessary before attempting to replace any parts.
Installation
Installation of replacement parts requires careful attention. Most manufacturer websites provide detailed instructions for replacing parts on your Kenmore dryer.
Solution:
Read the instructions carefully and follow them one step at a time. If you’re not comfortable with doing it yourself, then call in an expert technician to help you out.
In conclusion, if your Kenmore dryer start button is not working, it could be due to a faulty switch or a malfunctioning control board. It is best to seek professional help to diagnose and fix the issue for safe and efficient operation of your dryer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kenmore Dryer Start Button Not Working
Why won t my dryer start button work?
There are several common reasons why a dryer may not turn on, such as the controls being locked, a tripped circuit breaker, not holding down the start button long enough, or the dryer door not being fully closed.
Does a Kenmore dryer have a reset button?
Resetting a Kenmore dryer requires unplugging it or turning off the power at the circuit breaker as it does not have a reset button. It is important to wait for at least a minute for the electric charge to dissipate before powering it back on.
Why won’t my dryer start but has power clicks?
If your dryer is making a clicking noise and not starting, then it is likely a result of a problem with the start switch, door switch, or thermal fuse. If the dryer belt is broken, that may also be the cause of the issue. This information was shared on May 4th, 2021.
How much does it cost to fix a dryer that won’t start?
Typically, repairing a dryer costs between $100 and $400, which should handle most common problems such as a broken drum belt, malfunctioning thermostat, or blocked vents.
What is the life of a Kenmore dryer?
Dryers tend to last longer than washers because they don’t have to handle as much water. Regardless of whether they are powered by gas or electricity, dryers can last up to 13 years.
Where is the reset button on a Kenmore?
Does a Kenmore refrigerator have a reset button? No, there is no reset button that specifically controls the compressor’s power, but there are ice maker switches available with a power button. This information was last updated on May 21, 2023.
Charlie Thomson is Appliance Mastery's expert on laundry appliances. With a degree in mechanical engineering and over 8 years of experience in the appliance repair industry, Charlie is a go-to resource for homeowners who want to tackle common issues with their washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers.