When doing your laundry, using your GE dryer is very helpful when it comes to removing moisture and speeding up your clothes' drying process, especially during cold and rainy days. However, there may be instances when your GE dryer won't start. What should you do then if it happens? Well, we've researched the answers for you.
If your GE dryer doesn't start to run, do the following:
- Connect plug
- Close the door
- Position the cycle selection button
- Depress start button
- Inspect the door switch
- Check circuit breakers/fuses
- Choose a personality setting
- Inspect terminal block and power cord
- Check drive motor
- Examine control board
- Inspect belt switch
You now have an idea of what to do when your GE dryer won't start or run. To fully understand each step, read through as we elaborate more on the topic. Additionally, we'll also tackle the common reasons behind why dryers won't work. We'll also answer relevant questions in connection with the topic.
What would cause a GE dryer not to start?
Don't fret; maybe your GE dryer just needs a little bit of tweaking. GE dryers are equipped with an error-monitoring system to diagnose and detect problems. Follow these simple troubleshooting methods instead, which might help solve any issues with your dryer before calling the service center.
Disconnected plug
Sometimes, the cause why appliances don't work is because of a very simple reason—a disconnected plug. So if your dryer won't work, try checking on its plug. Make sure that it's completely plugged into the main outlet.
Opened dryer door
Dryers don't start to run when their doors are open, and they automatically stop when you open their doors in between cycles since GE dryers are equipped with a sensor. Hence, shut your dryer door completely before pressing the start button.
Cycle selection button not positioned
Another possible reason why your GE dryer won't start is that the cycle selection button wasn't set on your desired fabric, drying time, and temperature. GE dryers are designed to run only when all the necessary settings are positioned or set first.
Undepressed start button
It could be as simple as depressing your GE dryer's start button -this might be the solution to your machine's issue.
Door switch problem
Sometimes, your dryer's door switch is the culprit as to why it won't start working. Make sure to completely shut your dryer door so that the door switch will activate.
Always inspect the door switch of your dryer for possible scorching or damage. If there is any presence of damage or scorch, then it needs to be repaired before using it again.
Circuit breakers/fuses
When using a dryer machine, make sure that it is connected to a separate circuit dedicated to it. Always unplug the dryer first before checking on the breaker/fuse for safety. Check the circuit breaker/fuse to which it is connected and confirm if it's switched on and functioning. Reset it if needed.
If the circuit breaker/fuse has a problem and won't work, especially because of circuit overload, you may need a professional electrician to check on it before using the dryer again.
Personality setting
Some newer GE dryer models have a personality setting feature that lets you choose between two personalities: an electric dryer or a gas dryer. Your dryers won't start or tumble if you don't choose a personality setting once you press the start button.
Terminal block and power cord
For electric dryer models, always check the power cord located at the back of your dryer machine. If necessary, reconnect the cord once you see any burned, loose, or broken connection. When terminal wires or connections are worn out, broken, or burned, a power cord and terminal block replacement is a must.
Drive motor
The function of a drive motor is to turn the drum and the blower wheel of the dryer. If you notice that your dryer won't work but only makes a humming sound, check the drive motor right away.
Make sure that the drive belt hasn't slipped, snapped, or gotten damaged. If the drive belt is intact, then the drive motor must be replaced.
Control board
If you notice any signs of burning or scorching, then it's likely that the control board is the culprit to your problem. If this happens, you likely have to replace your dryer's control board and contact a professional technician to do it.
Belt switch
Most dryers have a belt switch that is affixed to a belt tension pulley. This will open when your dryer's belt breaks. However, even if your drive belt is not defective, your dryer still won't work if the belt switch doesn't have continuity.
Test your belt switch first using a multimeter if it still has continuity. If it doesn't have, it must be replaced.
If your dryer has power but doesn't start, check this post to guide you on what to do: "Dryer Won’t Start But Has Power – What To Do?"
Is there a reset button on my GE dryer?
GE dryers, either gas or electric, have plugs installed in them. Most GE dryers have reset buttons installed as well. However, some don't have any. Reset buttons in GE dryers are usually located on the face or front of the plug.
How do I know if my dryer fuse is blown?
A thermal fuse serves as a detector or safety component once your dryer's drum is overheating or having a problem; thus it prevents possible fire.
To know if your dryer fuse is blown, follow the steps below:
- Always unplug your dryer when you have to check it. Make sure that it's no longer connected to the gas or electricity.
- Now, locate your dryer's thermal fuse. Usually, a dryer's thermal fuse is located on its exhaust duct.
- Once located, disconnect the thermal fuse from the wires.
- Test whether or not your thermal fuse is blown or just acting up by using a multimeter.
- Once your multimeter's needle doesn't move, this only means that the thermal fuse has already blown and must need replacement before you can use your dryer again.
How do I replace the door latch on my GE dryer?
Before doing the whole process of replacing your GE dryer door latch, always make sure that your dryer is unplugged or the circuit breaker/fuse is switched off for safety.
A door latch is mounted on the dryer frame, and it's what holds the door closed. Usually, the main reason why it's replaced is if it's damaged on the inside and the door strike isn't catching to it.
Here is the step-by-step procedure for replacing your GE dryer door latch:
- Remove the console screws around the top of the dryer. Use a torque 20 screwdriver.
- Tilt the console forward and lift it a little bit to get the tabs out of the top so you can get the top off later.
- Next, open the dryer door and remove the two screws that hold the top panel to the front panel by using a Phillips screwdriver.
- Close the door and remove the top of your dryer by lifting and pulling it towards you.
- Now you can unfasten the screws on each side that are holding the front panel using a Phillips screwdriver.
- Once the screws are out, you can pull the front panel forward and lift it to detach it.
- Remove the upper and lower pieces located inside of the front panel by releasing their tabs.
- Next, open the dryer door and press down the tab on the latch. Press the side tabs afterward to release the latch completely.
- Once all done, put in the new latch and redo all the steps.
See these steps in action in the video below:
Some models, like the ">WE1M1011 dryer, have a door latch that's easy to replace. You just simply need to open your dryer door and gently pry the old latch out of the door frame using a flat nose screwdriver. When installing a new door latch, simply position the latch into place and press it until it snaps.
Check this GE dryer door latch on Amazon.
In Summary
When your GE dryer won't start, there are a few troubleshooting steps that you should do before calling for help. First, check the plug if it's completely plugged in.
Check also the door switch, circuit breaker/fuse, terminal block, drive motor, belt switch, control board, and power cord for possible damage. Select a cycle and personality setting as well, and always close the dryer door.
Before you go, you may also want to check these what to do type posts below: