Kenmore Dryer Starting Problems? Don’T Call A Repairman! Try This First

Kenmore dryers are known for their reliability and efficiency, but even the best appliances can experience occasional issues. One common problem is when the dryer won’t start and only makes a clicking sound. This issue can be frustrating, but it’s often caused by a simple problem that you can fix yourself. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various reasons why your Kenmore dryer may be clicking but not starting and provide step-by-step instructions on how to resolve the issue.

Possible Causes and Solutions

1. Faulty Power Supply

Symptoms: The dryer won‘t start and makes a clicking sound when you press the start button.

Solution: Check the power cord to ensure it’s securely plugged into both the dryer and the wall outlet. Make sure the outlet is working by plugging in another appliance. If the power cord or outlet is faulty, replace them.

2. Broken Drive Belt

Symptoms: The dryer starts but stops after a few seconds, accompanied by a clicking sound.

Solution: Open the dryer’s back panel and inspect the drive belt. If it’s broken or loose, replace it with a new one.

3. Malfunctioning Thermal Fuse

Symptoms: The dryer won‘t start and makes a clicking sound when you press the start button.

Solution: The thermal fuse is a safety device that prevents the dryer from overheating. If it blows, it will need to be replaced. To do this, unplug the dryer and locate the thermal fuse, which is usually found near the heating element. Disconnect the fuse and test it with a multimeter. If it’s blown, replace it with a new one.

4. Defective Start Switch

Symptoms: The dryer won‘t start and makes a clicking sound when you press the start button.

Solution: The start switch activates the dryer’s motor. If it’s faulty, it will need to be replaced. To do this, unplug the dryer and locate the start switch, which is usually found on the control panel. Disconnect the switch and test it with a multimeter. If it’s defective, replace it with a new one.

5. Clogged Vent

Symptoms: The dryer starts but takes longer to dry clothes, accompanied by a clicking sound.

Solution: A clogged vent restricts airflow, causing the dryer to overheat and make clicking sounds. Clean the lint trap and inspect the vent hose for any obstructions. If the hose is clogged, clean it or replace it.

6. Defective Door Switch

Symptoms: The dryer won‘t start and makes a clicking sound when you close the door.

Solution: The door switch ensures that the dryer doesn‘t operate when the door is open. If it’s faulty, it will need to be replaced. To do this, unplug the dryer and locate the door switch, which is usually found on the door frame. Disconnect the switch and test it with a multimeter. If it’s defective, replace it with a new one.

7. Faulty Timer

Symptoms: The dryer starts but stops prematurely, accompanied by a clicking sound.

Solution: The timer controls the dryer’s cycles. If it’s faulty, it will need to be replaced. To do this, unplug the dryer and locate the timer, which is usually found on the control panel. Disconnect the timer and test it with a multimeter. If it’s defective, replace it with a new one.

How to Avoid Future Problems

• Clean the lint trap after every use to prevent clogs.
• Inspect the vent hose regularly and clean or replace it as needed.
• Avoid overloading the dryer to reduce strain on the motor.
• Unplug the dryer when not in use to prevent power surges.
• Schedule regular maintenance with a qualified appliance technician.

Common Questions and Answers

Q: Why does my Kenmore dryer click but not start?
A: Several factors can cause this issue, including a faulty power supply, broken drive belt, malfunctioning thermal fuse, defective start switch, clogged vent, defective door switch, or faulty timer.

Q: How do I replace the thermal fuse on my Kenmore dryer?
A: Unplug the dryer, locate the thermal fuse near the heating element, disconnect and test it with a multimeter, and replace it with a new one if blown.

Q: How do I know if the start switch on my Kenmore dryer is faulty?
A: Unplug the dryer, locate the start switch on the control panel, disconnect and test it with a multimeter, and replace it with a new one if defective.

Q: Can I prevent my Kenmore dryer from making clicking sounds?
A: Yes, by cleaning the lint trap, inspecting the vent hose, avoiding overloading the dryer, unplugging it when not in use, and scheduling regular maintenance.

Q: How much does it cost to repair a Kenmore dryer that clicks but doesn’t start?
A: The cost of repair depends on the cause of the issue. A simple fix like replacing the thermal fuse may cost around $50, while more complex repairs like replacing the timer or motor can cost upwards of $200.