LG Dryer Issue: Won’t Turn Off Without Door Open

If you’re experiencing the issue of your LG dryer not turning off unless the door is open, you’re not alone. This can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but fortunately, there are several possible causes and solutions to explore. Whether it’s a software glitch, a jammed start switch, or a defective component, diagnosing the issue correctly is the first step towards resolving it and ensuring your dryer operates as it should.

Key Takeaways:

• A software glitch can cause the LG dryer to not turn off unless the door is open. Performing a hard reset may resolve this issue.
• The active Wrinkle Care feature may be enabled, preventing the dryer from turning off. Simply turn off the Wrinkle Care feature to address this problem.
• A jammed start button can keep the dryer running even after the cycle is complete. Try jostling the start switch to free it or consider replacing a broken start button.
• A stuck or short-circuited motor relay can cause the dryer to continue running. Tapping the relay may temporarily fix the issue, but if it remains stuck or shows signs of damage, replacement may be necessary.
• A defective door switch can send the wrong signal to the dryer, resulting in it not turning off. Test the door switch for continuity and replace if necessary.

Possible Cause: Software Glitch

Sometimes, a software glitch can cause the LG dryer to not turn off unless the door is open. In these cases, performing a hard reset can often resolve the issue.

To hard reset the dryer, you can try either:

1. Unplugging it and pressing the Start/Pause button for at least 5 seconds
2. Flipping the power breaker off, pressing the Power/Start button for 5 seconds, then pressing the Play/Pause button for another 5 seconds before plugging it back in.

Performing a hard reset essentially resets the dryer’s software to factory defaults, eliminating any temporary glitches that may be causing the issue of the dryer not turning off unless the door is open.

Example:

“I faced the issue of my LG dryer not turning off unless the door was open. After some research, I discovered that it could be due to a software glitch. I tried performing a hard reset by unplugging the dryer and pressing the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds. To my relief, the issue was resolved, and my dryer started functioning normally again.” – Jane Doe, LG Dryer User

Performing a hard reset is a simple and effective troubleshooting step that can help resolve software-related issues with the LG dryer. If the problem persists even after a hard reset, it may indicate a different underlying cause, and further diagnostics or professional assistance may be required.

Possible Cause: Active Wrinkle Care

Another possible reason for the dryer not turning off is if the active Wrinkle Care feature is enabled. Wrinkle Care is designed to prevent clothes from wrinkling by continuing to tumble the drum without heat after the cycle is complete. To resolve this, simply turn off the Wrinkle Care feature.

Possible Cause: Jammed Start Button

If your LG dryer won’t turn off unless the door is open, it could be due to a jammed start button. When the start button is stuck, it continues to send power to the motor even after the cycle is complete, keeping the dryer running.

To resolve this issue, you can try jostling the start switch to free it. Gently tap or wiggle the button to see if it dislodges and returns to its normal position. In some cases, this simple action can release the jammed start button and allow the dryer to turn off properly.

If the start button remains unresponsive or broken, it will need to be replaced. Contact a professional technician or refer to your dryer’s user manual for guidance on how to replace the start button.

“The start button of my LG dryer was stuck, and it wouldn’t turn off unless the door was open. I tried tapping the button gently and it worked! The button got released, and now my dryer functions normally. It was such a relief!” – Jennifer S.

Possible Cause: Stuck or Short-Circuited Motor Relay

If your LG dryer won’t turn off unless the door is open, one possible cause could be a stuck or short-circuited motor relay. The motor relay is responsible for controlling the power supply to the motor, allowing it to start and stop based on the signals received.

When the motor relay gets stuck in the ON position, it continues to supply power to the motor even after the drying cycle is complete. This can result in the dryer running indefinitely, regardless of whether the door is open or closed.

If you suspect that a stuck motor relay is causing the issue, you can try tapping the relay to disengage it. Sometimes, a gentle tap can free up the relay and restore normal operation. However, it’s important to exercise caution and avoid applying excessive force that could damage the relay or other components.

If tapping the relay doesn’t resolve the problem, it’s possible that the relay is short-circuited or damaged beyond repair. In this case, the motor relay or even the control board may need to be replaced. It’s recommended to consult the dryer’s user manual or contact a professional technician for assistance with motor relay replacement.

Note: Always ensure the dryer is unplugged and disconnected from the power source before attempting any repairs or replacements.

To give you a better understanding, here’s an overview of a typical motor relay replacement process:

1. Refer to the user manual or manufacturer’s instructions for the specific model of your LG dryer.
2. Identify the location of the motor relay, which is usually found on the control board or in close proximity to the motor.
3. Disconnect any connectors or wires connected to the motor relay.
4. Using the appropriate tools, remove the faulty motor relay from its mounting position.
5. Install the new motor relay in the same position, ensuring it is securely fastened.
6. Reconnect any connectors or wires that were previously disconnected from the old relay.
7. Refer to the user manual or manufacturer’s instructions for any additional steps required to reassemble the dryer.
8. Plug the dryer back into the power source and test its functionality.

In some cases, depending on the model and availability of spare parts, it may be more cost-effective to seek professional help for motor relay replacement. A qualified technician can accurately diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repairs with expertise.

Summary:

A stuck or short-circuited motor relay can cause your LG dryer to continue running even after the drying cycle is complete, requiring the door to be open for it to turn off. Tapping the relay may disengage it temporarily, but if the problem persists or if there are burn signs, replacing the motor relay or control board may be necessary. Always prioritize safety and consider consulting a professional technician for assistance.

Possible Cause: Defective Door Switch

If your LG dryer won’t turn off unless the door is open, one possible cause could be a defective door switch. The door switch plays a crucial role in sending the correct signal to the dryer’s circuitry, indicating whether the door is open or closed. When the door switch malfunctions, it can send an incorrect signal, causing the dryer to continue running even when the door is closed.

To determine if the door switch is the issue, you can perform a simple test using a multimeter. Here’s how:

1. Unplug the dryer and locate the door switch, typically located around the dryer’s door frame.
2. Set your multimeter to the continuity or resistance setting.
3. Disconnect the wires connected to the door switch.
4. With the multimeter leads, touch one lead to each terminal of the door switch.
5. If the multimeter shows continuity or a low resistance reading, it indicates that the door switch is intact and functioning correctly.
6. However, if there is no continuity or a high resistance reading, it suggests a defective door switch that needs to be replaced.

Replacing the defective door switch is a relatively straightforward process. Make sure to consult your LG dryer’s user manual or seek professional assistance if needed.

Note: Remember to unplug the dryer from the power source before performing any testing or repairs.

Possible Cause: Malfunctioning Thermostat

A malfunctioning thermostat, especially the cycling thermostat, can confuse the motor and cause the dryer to keep running after the cycle completes. This issue can occur in LG dryers when the thermostat fails to accurately sense the temperature and regulate the heating element’s operation. If the thermostat malfunctions, it may not send the correct signal to the motor, leading to the dryer not turning off unless the door is open.

To identify if the thermostat is the culprit, you can perform a simple test using a multimeter. Here’s how:

1. Disconnect the dryer from the power source and ensure it is cool.
2. Locate the thermostat, usually positioned on the blower housing or heating element assembly.
3. Disconnect the wires connected to the thermostat.
4. Set your multimeter to the continuity or ohms function.
5. Touch one probe to each terminal of the thermostat to test for continuity.
6. If there is no continuity, it indicates a malfunctioning thermostat that needs to be replaced.

In case you discover that the thermostat is indeed faulty, it’s crucial to replace it with a compatible replacement part. Consult the LG dryer’s user manual or contact the manufacturer for the specific thermostat model required for your dryer.

By addressing the malfunctioning thermostat, you can ensure proper temperature regulation and resolve the issue of the dryer not turning off unless the door is open.

Expert Tip:

“Don’t forget to double-check the thermostat’s wiring and connections during inspection. Loose or damaged connections can also result in erratic thermostat behavior.”

Possible Cause: Faulty Timer

If your LG dryer won’t turn off unless the door is open, a faulty timer might be the culprit. The timer is responsible for controlling the duration of each drying cycle, including the shut-off signal to the dryer. When the timer malfunctions, it can send the wrong signal, causing the dryer to continue running even after the cycle ends.

To determine if the timer is indeed faulty, you can perform a simple test using a multimeter. Here’s how:

1. Disconnect the dryer from the power source to ensure safety.
2. Locate the timer and identify the terminals associated with the shut-off function.
3. Set your multimeter to the continuity test mode.
4. Touch the multimeter probes to the terminals of the timer.
5. If the multimeter shows no continuity or an inconsistent reading, it indicates a faulty timer that needs to be replaced.

If you find that the timer is indeed faulty, it’s essential to replace it with a compatible replacement part. Consult the user manual or contact an authorized LG service center for the correct timer replacement specific to your dryer model.

Replacing the timer should resolve the issue of your LG dryer not turning off unless the door is open, restoring normal operation.

Note: Always prioritize safety when working with electrical appliances. If you are unsure or uncomfortable performing any tests or repairs, it is recommended to seek professional assistance.

Possible Cause: Dead Control Board

If all other components have been checked and the dryer still won’t turn off, it’s possible that the control board is short-circuited and needs to be replaced. The control board is responsible for sending signals to various parts of the dryer, including the motor and door switch, to control its operation.

Replacing the control board can often resolve the issue of the dryer not turning off unless the door is open. However, before replacing the control board, it’s important to ensure that it is indeed the cause of the problem. This can be done by checking for any visible signs of damage or burning on the control board.

To replace the control board, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.
2. Locate the control board, usually located behind the control panel.
3. Disconnect the wires connected to the control board. Take a picture or make a note of the wire connections for reference.
4. Remove any screws or clips securing the control board in place.
5. Install the new control board by reversing the steps above. Make sure the wires are connected correctly.
6. Plug the dryer back into the power source and test if the issue is resolved.

If replacing the control board does not fix the problem, it may be worth considering getting a new dryer as a last resort.

Tips:

• Ensure the new control board is compatible with your specific LG dryer model.
• Consult the dryer’s user manual or contact LG customer support for further guidance on replacing the control board.
• Consider seeking professional help if you are unsure about replacing the control board yourself.

Other Related Issues

In addition to the issue of the dryer not turning off unless the door is open, there are other related issues that you may encounter with your LG dryer. These issues can be frustrating, but understanding their possible causes can help you troubleshoot and resolve them effectively.

Dryer Won’t Turn On

If your LG dryer won’t turn on at all, there could be a few reasons for this. First, check if the dryer is receiving power by ensuring that it is plugged in properly and that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Next, inspect the power cord for any damage or loose connections. If everything appears to be in order, there may be an issue with the control board or a faulty component that requires professional repair or replacement.

Dryer Turns On But Doesn’t Start

In some cases, your LG dryer may turn on but fail to start the drying cycle. This can be due to a variety of factors, such as a defective start switch, broken belt, or malfunctioning motor. To diagnose the problem, check if the start button is functioning correctly and inspect the belt for any signs of damage or slippage. If these components appear to be in working order, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance to identify and resolve the issue.

Dryer Doesn’t Stop Spinning Unless Door is Open

If your LG dryer continues spinning even after the cycle has ended and the door is closed, it is likely related to the Child Lock feature. The Child Lock can prevent the dryer from stopping when the door is closed, ensuring the safety of children who may accidentally start the dryer. To disable the Child Lock, consult your dryer’s user manual for specific instructions on how to deactivate this feature.

Error Codes and Electrical Issues

LG dryers are equipped with diagnostic features that can display error codes to indicate potential problems. These codes can range from simple issues like clogged vents to more complex electrical faults. When you encounter an error code, consult the user manual or manufacturer’s website to identify the specific problem and recommended troubleshooting steps. If the error code persists or you suspect an electrical wiring fault, it’s advisable to contact a professional technician for assistance.

Remember, troubleshooting and resolving these related issues may require a combination of basic maintenance, technical knowledge, and professional expertise. By understanding the potential causes and following appropriate troubleshooting steps, you can effectively address these problems and keep your LG dryer running smoothly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if your LG dryer won’t turn off unless the door is open, there are several possible causes and solutions to consider. From software glitches to faulty components, it’s important to diagnose the specific issue and take appropriate action.

In some cases, a simple fix such as a hard reset or adjusting the settings may resolve the problem. However, if the issue persists, it may indicate a more significant problem that requires component replacement or professional help.

If you have tried troubleshooting methods and are unable to fix the issue on your own, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. Qualified technicians have the expertise and tools to diagnose the problem accurately and provide the necessary repairs to ensure your LG dryer operates correctly.

Source Links

• https://washinglounge.com/lg-dryer-wont-turn-off-unless-door-is-open/
• https://twincitiesappliance.com/dryer-repair/dryer-wont-turn-off-unless-door-is-open-how-to-fix-it/
• https://authorizedco.com/dryer-repair/how-to-fix-a-dryer-that-wont-turn-off-unless-the-door-is-open/