At the touch of a button, modern Maytag dryers can dry your clothes faster and more efficiently than ever before. “But what if when I press the start button on my dryer, nothing happens?” The dryer may be set on the wrong cycle. Check to make sure your selected cycle includes an immediate start. Determine the most common reasons for a Maytag dryer not starting and how to solve the problem.
Troubleshooting a Maytag Dryer Not Starting
In most cases, a Maytag dryer not starting can be fixed with a simple adjustment. However, there are times a part malfunction may require a professional repair. Our list specifies the most likely problems and pinpoints the right solution.
Lack of Power
Incoming power issues are one of the most common reasons for a Maytag dryer not starting. Even gas dryers require electricity to power the motor and other functions.
Here’s how to determine if your dryer has adequate power:
- Test the outlet: Make sure the dryer is properly plugged into a functioning outlet. To test the outlet, unplug the dryer and plug something else in. If the device doesn’t turn on, the outlet may be faulty and requires a professional assessment.
- Check for blown fuses or tripped breakers: Reset any tripped breakers or replace broken fuses.
- Avoid extension cords: These cords can’t safely conduct the level of power a dryer requires, resulting in overheating that prevents starting.
Door Latch Doesn’t Engage
If your Maytag dryer won’t start but has power, make sure that the door is fully closed. As a safety precaution, a dryer won’t start if the door isn’t completely shut and latched. Usually, you can hear an audible “click” when the door closes and the latch engages.
Try this if the dryer won’t start and the latch doesn’t engage:
- Give the door an extra push: The door must be closed firmly for the latch to catch.
- Check for obstructions: Trapped clothing can block the door latch from engaging. Open the door and remove any clothing that’s overlapping the dryer opening.
- Assess for a latch malfunction: If the door still won’t close and the latch doesn’t click, it may have malfunctioned and can’t signal the dryer to start. Test the latch for continuity with a multimeter. A lack of continuity means the latch is faulty and requires replacement.
Incorrect Maytag Dryer Cycle Setting
For an immediate start, make sure the dryer is set on an Automatic or Timed Dry setting. If it’s mistakenly set to the Wrinkle Reduction setting, a Maytag dryer does not start immediately. This cycle uses periodic tumbling and fluffing to prevent wrinkles but doesn’t include an immediate start.
Control Lock is Activated
If the dryer won’t turn on, it’s possible the Control Lock function was activated. To prevent an accidental start, this setting locks all control panel functions, including the Start button. How can you tell if Control Lock is activated? Depending on your model dryer, the control panel will show an illuminated lock icon or display the letters CL or LOC.
To disable the Control Lock function, press and hold the Cycle Signal button for 3 seconds. The lighted lock icon or letters should disappear from the control panel.
Maytag Dryer Part Malfunction
If all else fails, it’s possible a part malfunction is prohibiting the dryer from turning on.
The following malfunctions can result in a Maytag dryer not starting:
- Blown thermal fuse: A thermal fuse will blow if the dryer is in danger of overheating or if the fuse is faulty. In either case, your Maytag dryer won’t start, just beeps, when you press the Start button. A blown or broken fuse can’t be repaired and must be replaced. However, if you notice your dryer not drying clothes sufficiently before the fuse blows, check the vent for blockages that can cause overheating.
- Defective start switch: Once the Start button is pushed, this switch signals the dryer motor to start. If the start switch is defective, the dryer won’t make any noise at all when the Start button is pushed. A defective switch requires replacement.
- Failed Drive Motor: If the dryer makes a humming noise but doesn’t start, it could indicate a failed drive motor or blocked blower wheel. If the blower wheel has no obstructions, the drive motor requires a professional assessment and/or replacement.
Call Capital City Appliance Service for the best Maytag dryer repair in Columbus! We can resolve almost any laundry appliance issue.
