Why does my dryer hum but not start?

Almost always, this means the motor is getting power but can't turn the drum. The most common causes are a snapped drive belt, a seized idler pulley that keeps tension on the belt, or a failed motor. Try spinning the drum by hand (with the power off); if it spins freely, the belt is broken.

Can a clogged dryer vent prevent a dryer from starting?

Yes, indirectly. A clogged vent makes the dryer overheat, which blows a safety device called the thermal fuse. This fuse cuts power to the motor, so the dryer appears dead or won't start. You must replace the fuse AND clean the entire vent line to fix it properly.

How much does this repair cost?

It depends on the problem. Simple DIY fixes like a door switch or thermal fuse can cost less than $40 for the part. If you call a professional, expect to pay between $120 and $250 for these minor repairs. Major repairs like a motor or control board can cost $400 to $800+, at which point you should consider a new dryer.

Can I fix this myself?

Yes, many common issues are DIY-friendly. If you can handle a screwdriver and follow instructions, you can replace a door switch or thermal fuse. Just make sure the dryer is unplugged! I recommend calling a pro if the repair involves replacing the motor, threading a new belt, or if you're not comfortable working with electrical components.

Dryer Not Starting (No Power or Not Tumbling) Troubleshooting & Fixes (2024 Guide)

Quick Answer

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Dryer Not Starting (No Power or Not Tumbling) Troubleshooting & Fixes (2024 Guide) visual diagram — Visual guide for diagnosing key fob issues

Common Symptoms

Dryer is completely dead; no lights, no sounds.

Dryer lights turn on, but it doesn't tumble or start the cycle when the button is pushed.

Dryer makes a loud humming or buzzing sound but the drum doesn't rotate.

Dryer starts, runs for a short period, then stops and won't restart until it has cooled down.

Possible Causes

No power supply due to an unplugged cord or a tripped double-pole circuit breaker, which can sometimes look like it's on when it's tripped.

A faulty door switch, which is a common failure point from repeated use and prevents the dryer from starting as a safety measure.

A broken start switch, where the physical button or knob no longer makes electrical contact to begin the cycle.

A blown thermal fuse, a safety device that cuts power when the dryer overheats, almost always caused by a clogged lint screen or exhaust vent.

A broken drive belt, seized idler pulley, or a failed drive motor, which typically results in a humming sound without any drum rotation.

A defective electronic control board or timer, which acts as the appliance's brain and can prevent it from responding to commands.

Step-by-Step Diagnosis

Step 1

Verify Power Supply – Push the 240V plug firmly into the wall. Then, go to your electrical panel, locate the double-pole breaker labeled 'Dryer,' and flip it completely off, then back on.

Step 2

Inspect the Dryer Door – Open the door and manually press the door switch. You should hear a 'click.' If not, the switch is likely broken. Close the door firmly and try starting it again.

Step 3

Listen to the Start Button – Push the start button and listen for either a loud hum (indicating a motor/belt issue) or complete silence (indicating a potential start switch or fuse issue).

Step 4

Perform the Drum Spin Test – With the dryer off, reach in and turn the drum by hand. If it spins with no resistance, the belt is broken. If it's completely stuck, the motor or a pulley is seized.

Step 5

Check the Thermal Fuse – UNPLUG THE DRYER. Remove the back panel to locate the thermal fuse on the exhaust duct. Use a multimeter on the continuity setting to test it; no beep means the fuse is blown and needs replacement, and the vent needs cleaning.

Dryer Not Starting (No Power or Not Tumbling) Troubleshooting & Fixes (2024 Guide) — Key fob troubleshooting and repair overview

DIY vs Professional Costs

Repair Type	DIY Cost	Professional Cost	Time Required
Door Switch Replacement	$15-40	$120-200	<1 hour
Thermal Fuse Replacement	$10-30	$140-220	1-2 hours
Drive Belt Replacement	$15-35	$160-250	1-2 hours
Drive Motor Replacement	$150-300	$400-650+	2-4 hours
Control Board Replacement	$120-400	$350-700	1-2 hours

Door Switch Replacement

DIY$15-40

Pro$120-200

Time<1 hour

Thermal Fuse Replacement

DIY$10-30

Pro$140-220

Time1-2 hours

Drive Belt Replacement

DIY$15-35

Pro$160-250

Time1-2 hours

Drive Motor Replacement

DIY$150-300

Pro$400-650+

Time2-4 hours

Control Board Replacement

DIY$120-400

Pro$350-700

Time1-2 hours

When to Call a Professional Dryer Vent

If you have checked the breaker and plug and the dryer is still completely dead.
If the dryer makes a loud humming, grinding, or squealing noise when you try to start it, indicating a serious mechanical issue.
If you are uncomfortable working with electricity or disassembling appliance panels.
If you have replaced a part, like a thermal fuse, and the problem happens again, meaning there is an underlying issue you haven't found.
If your dryer is a newer, high-end digital model, as they often require specialized diagnostic tools.

Prevention Tips

Clean the lint filter after every single load to ensure proper airflow.
Professionally clean the entire dryer vent line from the dryer to the outdoors every 1-2 years.
Avoid overloading the dryer, which strains the motor, belt, and other components.
Ensure the dryer has at least 4-6 inches of space behind it to prevent the vent hose from being crushed.
Periodically check that the exterior vent flap opens freely and is not blocked by debris or snow.

Dryer Not Starting (No Power or Not Tumbling) Troubleshooting & Fixes (2024 Guide) professional repair detail — Professional key fob repair and programming

Frequently Asked Questions

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