Have you ever found yourself staring at your Maytag dryer, frustrated that it won’t start? It’s a common issue that many people face, and the culprit is often the start button. If you’re dealing with a Maytag dryer start button not working, don’t worry. In this article, we’ll go over some troubleshooting steps to help you fix the issue and prevent it from happening again.
Troubleshooting
Contents
Before you begin any troubleshooting, it’s important to unplug the dryer to avoid any electrical hazards. The first step in troubleshooting the start button is to ensure that the dryer is getting power. Check the power cord and outlet to make sure they’re not damaged.
If the power source is okay, move on to checking the thermal fuse. A blown thermal fuse can prevent the dryer from starting, so it’s important to check if it’s the cause of the problem.
| Issue | Possible Cause | Troubleshooting Steps | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dryer won't start | Power cord not plugged in | Check the power cord and outlet | Plug in the power cord |
| Tripped circuit breaker | Reset the circuit breaker | Reset the circuit breaker | |
| Blown thermal fuse | Check the thermal fuse with a multimeter | Replace the thermal fuse if necessary | |
| Faulty door switch | Check the door switch with a multimeter | Replace the door switch if necessary | |
| Dryer won't heat | Burned-out heating element | Check the heating element with a multimeter | Replace the heating element if necessary |
| Faulty thermal fuse | Check the thermal fuse with a multimeter | Replace the thermal fuse if necessary | |
| Clogged dryer vent | Clean the dryer vent with a vent brush or vacuum | Clear the clogged vent | |
| Malfunctioning thermostat | Check the thermostat with a multimeter | Replace the thermostat if necessary | |
| Dryer makes noise | Worn drum rollers | Check the drum rollers for wear and tear | Replace the drum rollers if necessary |
| Loose or damaged blower wheel | Check the blower wheel for looseness or damage | Tighten or replace the blower wheel if necessary | |
| Worn drum bearing | Check the drum bearing for wear and tear | Replace the drum bearing if necessary | |
| Dryer won't stop | Faulty timer | Check the timer with a multimeter | Replace the timer if necessary |
| Broken door switch | Check the door switch with a multimeter | Replace the door switch if necessary | |
| Malfunctioning thermostat | Check the thermostat with a multimeter | Replace the thermostat if necessary | |
| Dryer drum won't turn | Worn drum belt | Check the drum belt for wear and tear | Replace the drum belt if necessary |
If the thermal fuse is not the issue, the next step is to inspect the door switch. The dryer won’t start if the door switch is faulty, so make sure it’s functioning properly. You can check the door switch by opening the dryer door and looking for a lever or button that’s triggered when the door is closed. If the switch isn’t working, it may need to be replaced.
If neither the thermal fuse nor the door switch is the issue, it’s time to take a closer look at the start switch. The start switch sends power to the motor, which in turn starts the dryer. You can check the start switch using a multimeter to ensure that it’s working properly. If the start switch is defective, it will need to be replaced.
Common solutions
If none of the above troubleshooting steps resolve the issue, there are still a few other solutions that may work.
| Issue | Possible Cause | Common Solutions | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dryer won't start | Power cord not plugged in | Plug in the power cord | Double-check the power cord before starting the dryer |
| Tripped circuit breaker | Reset the circuit breaker | Avoid overloading the circuit | |
| Blown thermal fuse | Replace the thermal fuse if necessary | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | |
| Faulty door switch | Replace the door switch if necessary | Avoid slamming the dryer door | |
| Dryer won't heat | Burned-out heating element | Replace the heating element if necessary | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly |
| Faulty thermal fuse | Replace the thermal fuse if necessary | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | |
| Clogged dryer vent | Clear the clogged vent | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | |
| Malfunctioning thermostat | Replace the thermostat if necessary | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | |
| Dryer makes noise | Worn drum rollers | Replace the drum rollers if necessary | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly |
| Loose or damaged blower wheel | Tighten or replace the blower wheel if necessary | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | |
| Worn drum bearing | Replace the drum bearing if necessary | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | |
| Dryer won't stop | Faulty timer | Replace the timer if necessary | Don't overload the dryer |
| Broken door switch | Replace the door switch if necessary | Avoid slamming the dryer door | |
| Malfunctioning thermostat | Replace the thermostat if necessary | Don't overload the dryer | |
| Dryer drum won't turn | Worn drum belt | Replace the drum belt if necessary | Don't overload the dryer |
Resetting the circuit breaker
First, try resetting the circuit breaker that controls the dryer. This can reset any tripped breakers and solve the issue. Resetting the circuit breaker is a common solution to fix a Maytag dryer start button not working. This is because a tripped circuit breaker can cause the dryer to lose power and prevent it from starting. Here’s how to reset the circuit breaker:
- Locate the circuit breaker panel in your home. It’s usually in the garage, basement, or a utility room.
- Look for the breaker that controls the dryer. It may be labeled as “dryer” or “laundry.”
- If the breaker is in the “off” position, switch it to the “on” position. If it’s already in the “on” position, switch it off and then back on.
- Wait a few seconds for the breaker to reset. You may hear a click or a humming sound.
- Go back to the dryer and try pressing the start button again. If the circuit breaker was the problem, the dryer should start.
If resetting the circuit breaker doesn’t fix the issue, try the other troubleshooting steps mentioned in the article. It’s important to remember to always unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs or troubleshooting to avoid electrical hazards. If you’re unsure about how to reset the circuit breaker or any other troubleshooting steps, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.
Another potential solution is to clean the start button and control panel. Dirt and debris can prevent the start button from working properly, so try cleaning it with a soft cloth and some rubbing alcohol. If the start button is still not working, you may need to replace it.
Cleaning the start button is another possible solution to fix a Maytag dryer start button not working. Dirt and debris can accumulate on the start button and prevent it from working properly. Here’s how to clean the start button:
- Unplug the dryer to avoid electrical hazards.
- Use a soft cloth or sponge and some rubbing alcohol to clean the start button and the control panel around it. You can also use a toothbrush to gently clean any hard-to-reach areas.
- Make sure to remove any dirt, debris, or grime from the start button and the control panel.
- After cleaning, let the start button and the control panel dry completely before plugging in the dryer and testing the start button.
If the start button is still not working after cleaning it, try the other troubleshooting steps mentioned in the article. It’s important to remember to always unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs or troubleshooting to avoid electrical hazards. If you’re unsure about how to clean the start button or any other troubleshooting steps, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.
Replacing the start button is another potential solution to fix a Maytag dryer start button not working. Here’s how to replace the start button:
- Unplug the dryer to avoid electrical hazards.
- Remove the back panel of the dryer using a screwdriver. This will give you access to the start button and other components.
- Locate the start button and disconnect any wires or connectors that are attached to it. Take a picture of the wiring or make a note of the connections so you can reconnect them properly.
- Remove the old start button by unscrewing it or prying it off.
- Install the new start button by screwing it in or snapping it into place. Reconnect the wires or connectors to the new start button.
- Replace the back panel of the dryer and secure it with screws.
- Plug in the dryer and test the start button to make sure it’s working properly.
If replacing the start button doesn’t fix the issue, try the other troubleshooting steps mentioned in the article. It’s important to remember to always unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs or troubleshooting to avoid electrical hazards. If you’re unsure about how to replace the start button or any other troubleshooting steps, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.
When to call a professional
If you’ve exhausted all of the troubleshooting steps and the Maytag dryer start button is still not working, it’s time to call a professional. Signs that you need to call a professional include strange noises, burning smells, and any other issues that could indicate a more serious problem. A professional repair service can diagnose and fix the issue, but it can be expensive, so be sure to get an estimate before proceeding.
| Issue | Signs of a serious problem | When to Call a Professional | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dryer won't start | Burning smell or smoke | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 |
| Unusual noises | Call a professional if noise persists | $100-$400 | |
| Circuit breaker repeatedly trips | Call a professional if problem persists | $100-$400 | |
| Major electrical issues | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 | |
| Dryer won't heat | No heat at all | Call a professional if problem persists | $100-$400 |
| Gas leaks | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 | |
| Burning smell or smoke | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 | |
| Major electrical issues | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 | |
| Dryer makes noise | Loud banging or thumping sounds | Call a professional if problem persists | $100-$400 |
| Screeching or squeaking sounds | Call a professional if problem persists | $100-$400 | |
| Rattling or vibrating sounds | Call a professional if problem persists | $100-$400 | |
| Major mechanical issues | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 | |
| Dryer won't stop | Overheating | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 |
| Drum won't stop turning | Call a professional if problem persists | $100-$400 | |
| Major electrical issues | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 | |
| Dryer drum won't turn | Burning smell or smoke | Call a professional immediately | $100-$400 |
Preventing future issues
Preventing future issues with the Maytag dryer start button is all about proper maintenance. Regularly inspect the dryer for any signs of wear and tear, and make sure to clean the start button and control panel regularly. Additionally, avoid overloading the dryer, as this can cause unnecessary strain on the motor and other parts.
| Issue | Best Practices | Tips for Maintenance | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dryer won't start | Double-check the power cord | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | Don't overload the dryer |
| Avoid overloading the circuit | Clean the dryer vent regularly | Use a vent brush or vacuum to clear the dryer vent | |
| Check the thermal fuse regularly | Hire a professional to perform annual maintenance | ||
| Avoid slamming the dryer door | Store dryer lint in a metal container and dispose of it properly | ||
| Dryer won't heat | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | Clean the dryer vent regularly | Use a vent brush or vacuum to clear the dryer vent |
| Avoid overloading the dryer | Check the thermostat regularly | Hire a professional to perform annual maintenance | |
| Don't block the dryer vent | Store dryer lint in a metal container and dispose of it properly | ||
| Use the right power supply | Don't use the dryer for items that have come into contact with flammable substances | ||
| Dryer makes noise | Clean the dryer lint filter regularly | Keep the dryer level | Hire a professional to perform annual maintenance |
| Don't overload the dryer | Tighten any loose screws or bolts | Store dryer lint in a metal container and dispose of it properly | |
| Lubricate any moving parts | Use only the recommended laundry detergent and fabric softener | ||
| Don't block the dryer vent | Use dryer balls instead of dryer sheets | ||
| Dryer won't stop | Don't overload the dryer | Check the timer regularly | Hire a professional to perform annual maintenance |
| Avoid slamming the dryer door | Keep the dryer level | Store dryer lint in a metal container and dispose of it properly | |
| Clean the lint filter regularly | Use only the recommended laundry detergent and fabric softener | ||
| Don't block the dryer vent | Use dryer balls instead of dryer sheets | ||
| Dryer drum won't turn | Don't overload the dryer | Keep the dryer level | Hire a professional to perform annual maintenance |
| Avoid slamming the dryer door | Check the drum belt regularly | Store dryer lint in a metal container and dispose of it properly | |
| Lubricate any moving parts | Use only the recommended laundry detergent and fabric softener | ||
| Don't block the dryer vent | Use dryer balls instead of dryer sheets |
FAQs
Why won't my Maytag dryer start?
A Maytag dryer may not start due to a variety of reasons, including a tripped circuit breaker, blown thermal fuse, faulty door switch, or power cord not plugged in. Refer to the troubleshooting table in the article to identify the possible cause and follow the troubleshooting steps to fix the issue.
Why isn't my Maytag dryer heating up?
A Maytag dryer may not be heating up due to a burned-out heating element, faulty thermal fuse, clogged dryer vent, or malfunctioning thermostat. Refer to the troubleshooting table in the article to identify the possible cause and follow the troubleshooting steps to fix the issue.
Why is my Maytag dryer making noise?
A Maytag dryer may be making noise due to worn drum rollers, loose or damaged blower wheel, or worn drum bearing. Refer to the troubleshooting table in the article to identify the possible cause and follow the troubleshooting steps to fix the issue.
Why won't my Maytag dryer stop running?
A Maytag dryer may not stop running due to a faulty timer, broken door switch, or malfunctioning thermostat. Refer to the troubleshooting table in the article to identify the possible cause and follow the troubleshooting steps to fix the issue.
Can I fix my Maytag dryer myself?
It depends on the issue and your level of expertise. Some issues, such as cleaning the start button or checking the lint filter, can be done by homeowners. However, other issues, such as replacing the heating element or door switch, may require professional assistance. Always unplug the dryer before attempting any repairs or troubleshooting, and consider hiring a professional if you're unsure about how to proceed.
How often should I maintain my Maytag dryer?
It's recommended to perform basic maintenance, such as cleaning the lint filter and dryer vent, after every use. It's also recommended to have a professional perform annual maintenance to check for any potential issues and ensure the dryer is functioning properly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dealing with a Maytag dryer start button not working can be frustrating, but it’s a problem that can be solved with some troubleshooting and maintenance. By following the steps in this article, you should be able to fix the issue and prevent it from happening again. If you’re still having trouble, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help. Remember, a properly functioning dryer is key to keeping your laundry routine running smoothly.
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