Dryer Controls Don't Work

If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, the dryer's power cord could the source of the problem. Inspect the cord for any breaks or burn marks near the terminals. If the terminals appear blackened or wires are exposed through the cord's insulation, you should replace the power cord with a new one.

A dryer control knob needs to be able to engage and rotate the switch stem for that control to work. If the knob is cracked or stripped out and just slips on the stem a new knob will need to be installed to properly engage the switch.

If just the start button is malfunctioning and you've confirmed the door switch is working properly, then it's possible the thermal fuse has blown. You can use a multimeter to test the fuse for electrical continuity. If the thermal fuse has no continuity, you'll know it has blown and will need to be replaced.

If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, it's likely the control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)

If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, it's likely the main control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the main control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)

If the whole dryer display or timer is not working, it's likely the timer itself is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the timer, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, test the timer by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram. If the timer is defective, replace it.

The dryer door switch allows the control to start and run the dryer once the door is fully closed. A faulty door switch may signal that the door is not closed when it is, causing the dryer controls not to work. You can test the door switch for electrical continuity with a multimeter. If the switch does not test postive for continuity when actuated, the switch should be replaced with a new one.

Verify the power cord is plugged into the wall outlet securely and the circuit breaker has not tripped. A tripped breaker will have switched to the off or half-way position. To reset the breaker turn it to the off position then back on. Electric dryers require 240 volts of alternating current. Gas dryers require 120 volts. To determine if the electrical outlet is providing sufficient voltage, use a multimeter to test the incoming power at the wall socket.

If just the start button is malfunctioning and you've confirmed the door switch is working properly, then it's likely that a faulty touchpad and control panel is the cause of the problem. A new touchpad and control panel will need to be installed to resolve the issue.

If just the start button is malfunctioning and you've confirmed the door switch is working properly, then it's likely that a faulty control panel is the cause of the problem. A new control panel will need to be installed to resolve the issue.

If just the start button is malfunctioning and you've confirmed the door switch is working properly, then it's likely the user control and display board is defective. A new board will need to be installed to resolve the problem.