Though it’s certainly frustrating when your dryer won’t start, the pile of wet laundry may be the bigger problem. Why won’t my GE dryer turn on? The door might not be closed all the way, prohibiting a cycle from beginning. Learn how the 5 most common reasons for a GE dryer not starting often have a straightforward solution.
GE Dryer Not Starting? Here’s How to Solve the Problem
While an appliance that won’t turn on often makes you fear the worst, it shouldn’t be the end of the road for your dryer. Often, a DIY fix or routine repair can remedy a GE dryer not starting and resume normal function.
1. Dryer Is Not Getting Power
Before investigating a malfunction, GE dryer troubleshooting starts with power issues that can prevent it from starting. Even gas dryers require electricity to power the control panel and other functions.
Here’s how to investigate potential power problems:
- Check the electrical cord and outlet: Make sure the cord is properly plugged in and free of damage. A burned, frayed, or broken cord requires replacement. A faulty power outlet should be assessed by an electrician.
- Look for tripped breakers/blown fuses: Reset any tripped breakers or replace broken fuses in your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Avoid using extension cords: These cords can’t safely conduct the voltage a dryer requires, causing power surges that can shut down function.
2. Check Dryer Settings
Some dryer settings don’t include an immediate start or use less heat, making it seem as if the dryer takes too long. For example, a GE dryer not starting may be set on a Delay Dry cycle. This setting delays the start of a drying cycle to a preselected later time. Similarly, if the Control Lock feature is enabled, all functions will be locked, preventing any setting or cycle from starting.
Before starting a drying cycle, check the dryer settings to make sure it includes the start and temperature you prefer. Lastly, when turning on your dryer, always push the START button firmly to ensure that it activates the drying cycle.
3. Dryer Door Not Fully Closed
As a safety precaution, a GE dryer won’t start if the door isn’t closed and latched. When closing the door, always give it a firm push to ensure that the latch is engaged. However, avoid slamming the door to prevent damage to the door latch.
How can you tell if the latch is damaged? If you don’t hear an audible “click” as the door closes, it may be broken. The latch should be professionally replaced if multimeter testing shows a lack of continuity.
4. Power Button Not Working
When you press the power button on your dryer it signals the drive motor to begin a drying cycle. Typically, you hear a humming noise as the motor starts and the cycle begins. If the dryer doesn’t make any sound when the button is pushed, it may be due to a GE dryer power button not working. This is usually caused by an electrical malfunction that prohibits the button from activating the drive motor. If the button has a lack of continuity with multimeter testing, it requires replacement.
5. GE Dryer Thermal Fuse Failure
Lastly, a GE dryer not starting may have a failed thermal fuse. The fuse is a safety device that blows if the dryer is in danger of overheating. Once it blows, the dryer won’t be able to start until the fuse is replaced. While the fuse can blow if it malfunctions, a clogged dryer vent can cause overheating and trigger the fuse. Before replacing it, we suggest checking the exhaust vent for blockages that can overheat the dryer.
Is your GE dryer not starting even after trying these tips? It may be time for a professional dryer repair service to assess the problem. Contact Maughanster Appliance Repair to schedule your service today!
