Appliance Resolve
General owner-safe guideLast reviewed July 31, 2026

Dryer not starting

The display is blank, the controls respond but the drum does not turn, or the machine clicks without starting.

Start hereDo not bypass the door switch or open electrical panels.

Narrow it down

What this symptom can tell you

The display is completely blank

The breaker, plug, outlet, or household power may be the first safe check.

The display works but the drum does not move

The door, Control Lock, cycle selection, or Start press-and-hold may be involved.

The dryer clicks or hums without starting

The load may be jammed, or a motor, drive, switch, fuse, or control issue may need service.

These patterns narrow the next check; they do not confirm a failed part. Use the exact model number and any displayed code before ordering parts or authorizing repair.

Try these checks in order

Exact controls and access points differ by model. Stop when a step does not match your appliance or manual.

  1. 1

    Confirm power

    Press Power and check the plug if it is visible and dry. Reset the dryer breaker once.

    What you want: The display or indicator lights turn on.
  2. 2

    Close the door

    Remove clothing from the latch area and close the door firmly.

    What you want: The latch engages and the door sits flush.
  3. 3

    Cancel Control Lock

    Look for a lock symbol. Hold the named button for the time shown in the manual.

    What you want: The lock indicator turns off.
  4. 4

    Choose a timed or normal cycle

    Some sensor cycles will not start correctly with an empty drum. Choose a normal or timed cycle for testing.

    What you want: A complete cycle is selected.
  5. 5

    Hold Start

    Many dryers require Start to be held for two or three seconds.

    What you want: The motor starts and the drum turns.

Most common categories

Possible causes to consider

  • A tripped breaker, loose plug, switched outlet, or interrupted power.
  • A door that is not fully closed or an item caught in the opening.
  • Control Lock, Delay Start, or an incomplete cycle selection.
  • A drum obstructed by an overloaded or trapped item.
  • A switch, fuse, motor, belt, wiring, or control issue requiring service.

Stop and arrange help when

  • The cord, outlet, or plug is hot, loose, discolored, or damaged.
  • The breaker trips again.
  • The dryer hums without turning or smells hot.
  • A gas smell, smoke, or sparking is present.

If the problem remains

Find the full model number. Open the official manual, check for a recall, and describe which checks you completed before contacting service.

Create diagnostic summaryFind the manualCheck recallsRepair or replace

Outcome check

Did these checks resolve the problem?

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Common questions

Dryer not starting: FAQs

Why does the dryer click but not start?

A relay or motor may be attempting to start, but the door, load, drum, or an internal part may be preventing operation. Do not keep pressing Start repeatedly.

Can a dryer breaker look on but still be tripped?

Some double-pole breakers can trip without appearing fully off. Follow the panel instructions for one reset, and stop if it trips again.

Does the dryer door switch matter?

Yes. Dryers generally require the door to be recognized as closed. Check for clothing at the opening and avoid bypassing the switch.

Research and verification

Source basis

This general guide was reviewed against official manufacturer support libraries and safety guidance. Exact controls, access points, installation limits, and reset procedures vary by model; the manual for your exact model takes priority.

Researched and reviewed by Appliance Resolve EditorialLast reviewed July 31, 2026Review standards