There are few things more frustrating than an appliance that won’t start. Especially if that appliance is a dryer and you have a pile of wet laundry. Fortunately, there are often some simple solutions when your GE dryer won’t start. From power issues to incorrect cycle settings, we’ll pinpoint the most common causes.
5 Reasons Why Your GE Dryer Won’t Start
Identifying dryer problems like a GE dryer not starting can be just as challenging as the problem itself. Our GE dryer troubleshooting saves time by focusing on the most typical causes and straightforward solutions when your dryer won’t start.
#1. No Power to the Dryer
Sometimes the reason your GE dryer won’t start has more to do with a power issue than a dryer problem. Before investigating other possibilities, follow these tips to assess your dryer’s power supply:
- Make sure the dryer is properly plugged into a functioning electrical outlet.
- Inspect the power cord for signs of damage or breakage.
- If you have an electric dryer, make sure your home’s dryer fuse or circuit breaker isn’t blown or tripped.
- Refrain from using an extension cord to power your dryer, as most cords can’t safely transmit the level of electricity needed.
#2. Dryer Door Not Closed All the Way
As a safety precaution, a GE dryer does not turn on if the door isn’t properly closed and latched. Once it is, the door switch audibly clicks and signals the control panel so the dryer can operate. When you close the dryer door, push to make sure the latch engages and the door is fully closed.
So what if my GE dryer won’t turn on even if the door is closed and latched? It’s possible that the door switch is defective and needs replacement. If the switch fails to click or multimeter testing reveals a lack of continuity, it should be professionally replaced.
Pro Tip: Be careful to avoid slamming your dryer door closed to prevent damage and the need for repair!
#3. Incorrect Cycle Settings
Many dryers have multiple drying settings, some of which can delay or prevent the dryer from starting. If your GE dryer won’t start or the dryer takes too long to dry, make sure that the delayed start function or delicate setting hasn’t been selected. These settings will delay the start of a drying cycle or dry with less heat, elongating drying times.
Similarly, check that the dryer control lock feature hasn’t been activated. This setting locks the controls to prevent children from pressing buttons during a cycle. Lastly, press the Start button firmly when turning on the dryer, pushing it down all the way to activate a drying cycle.
#4. Broken Dryer Start Switch
Still wondering why won’t my dryer turn on even if the Start button has been activated? It’s possible that the start switch may be defective. When you press the Start button, this switch sends a burst of electricity to the dryer motor, enabling it to start. You may find that your dryer makes noise that sounds like a squeak when this happens.
If the dryer doesn’t make any noise or movement when you press the start button it’s probable that the switch has malfunctioned. While multimeter testing can confirm this with a lack of continuity, the switch likely needs replacement.
#5. Defective GE Dryer Thermal Fuse
A GE dryer thermal fuse will blow if the dryer becomes too hot. This is a protective feature, guarding against overheating that can damage other dryer parts. Oftentimes a blown thermal fuse indicates a clog in the dryer’s vent system. If the fuse blows, we suggest checking the vent system for lint and debris that can cause a blockage and overheating.
In other instances the thermal fuse can blow if it’s defective. In this case, the fuse will exhibit a lack of continuity and needs replacement.
If your GE dryer won’t start after these troubleshooting tips, a dryer repair service can help. Call Callahan’s Appliance to schedule an assessment.
