Troubleshooting Guide: Kenmore 80 Series Dryer Won’t Start

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re frustrated because your Kenmore 80 Series dryer won’t start. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the problem. We understand how important it is to have a fully functional dryer, so let’s get started!

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t panic if your Kenmore 80 Series dryer won’t start!
• There are several potential causes, but most issues can be resolved with some troubleshooting and basic repairs.
• Always prioritize safety when working on appliances, and seek professional help if needed.
• In this guide, we’ll cover everything from checking the power supply to examining the control board to help you fix the problem.
• With the right knowledge and tools, you can get your Kenmore 80 Series dryer up and running again in no time!

Check the Power Supply

If your Kenmore 80 Series dryer won’t turn on, the first thing to check is the power supply. It may seem obvious, but sometimes, a loose or broken power cord, a faulty outlet, or a tripped circuit breaker can cause your dryer not to start. To rule these out, follow the steps below:

Inspect the Power Cord

Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into the dryer and the outlet. Check the cord for any frayed or damaged wires, as this can cause a short circuit that prevents the dryer from starting. If you notice any issues or damage, replace the power cord.

Check the Outlet

Test the outlet by unplugging the dryer and plugging in another appliance or device. If the outlet is not working, reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse. If this doesn’t work, you may need to call an electrician to repair the outlet.

Inspect the Circuit Breaker

Locate the circuit breaker panel and check to see if the breaker for your dryer has tripped. If it has, flip the breaker to the “off” position and then back to the “on” position. This should reset the breaker and restore power to your dryer. If the breaker keeps tripping, you should call an electrician to inspect the circuit.

Once you have ruled out power supply issues, move on to the next troubleshooting step.

Check the Start Switch

If the power supply is not the issue, the next step is to examine the start switch. The start switch is responsible for sending a signal to the motor when you push the start button. If the switch is faulty, it won’t send the signal, and the dryer won’t start.

To access the switch, you’ll need to remove the control panel on the dryer’s top. You can do this by unscrewing the screws at the back and lifting the panel. Once you have access to the switch, use a multimeter to test it for continuity.

If the switch doesn’t have continuity, it is faulty and needs to be replaced. You can find a replacement switch at most hardware stores or online. When replacing the switch, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Steps to test the Start Switch:

1. Disconnect the power supply to the dryer.
2. Remove the screws at the back of the control panel that holds it in place.
3. Lift the control panel and tilt it backward to access the switch.
4. Remove the wires from the switch terminals.
5. Set your multimeter to the continuity setting.
6. Touch the probes of the multimeter to the switch terminals.
7. If the switch has continuity, it’s working correctly.
8. If the switch doesn’t have continuity, it’s faulty and needs to be replaced.

Testing the start switch is a straightforward process, but if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s best to consult a professional technician. They have the necessary expertise and tools to diagnose and fix any problems with your Kenmore 80 Series dryer.

Examine the Door Switch

If your Kenmore 80 Series dryer won’t start but has power, the door switch might be malfunctioning. The door switch is a safety feature that prevents the appliance from starting when the door is open. If the switch is faulty, it can cause the dryer not to start even when the door is closed.

To check the door switch, first, unplug the dryer and locate the switch near the door frame. Use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. If the switch does not have continuity, it needs to be replaced.

You can replace the door switch yourself by following these steps:

1. Disconnect the wires connected to the door switch.
2. Use a screwdriver to remove the switch from the frame.
3. Replace the old switch with a new one.
4. Reconnect the wires to the new switch.

Make sure to properly secure the new switch to the frame and test your dryer to ensure it’s working correctly.

Replacing the door switch can be a simple fix for your Kenmore 80 Series dryer not starting up. However, if the switch is not the issue, continue with the troubleshooting guide to identify the problem with your appliance.

Inspect the Thermal Fuse

If your Kenmore dryer won’t spin or start, a blown thermal fuse may be the issue. The thermal fuse is a safety feature that cuts off power to the dryer’s motor when the dryer overheats. It is located on the dryer’s heating element housing and is easily accessible for inspection. Follow the steps below to inspect and test the thermal fuse:

1. Disconnect the dryer from the power source.
2. Locate the thermal fuse on the heating element housing and remove it from the dryer.
3. Visually inspect the thermal fuse for signs of damage or discoloration. If it looks damaged, it needs to be replaced.
4. Test the thermal fuse for continuity using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the “ohms” or “continuity” setting and touch the probes to the thermal fuse’s terminals. If there is no continuity, the fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.

If the thermal fuse is blown, it’s essential to address the underlying issue that caused it to blow in the first place. Common causes of thermal fuse failure include clogged dryer vents or a malfunctioning thermostat. Clean the dryer vents and replace any faulty components before replacing the thermal fuse.

When replacing the thermal fuse, be sure to use a manufacturer-approved replacement part. Using an incompatible thermal fuse can result in further issues with your Kenmore 80 Series dryer.

Check the Drive Belt

If your Kenmore 80 Series dryer won’t spin, the drive belt may be the culprit. Over time, the belt can become worn or broken, resulting in the drum not rotating. Here’s how to inspect the drive belt:

1. Start by unplugging the dryer and locating the belt.
2. Inspect the belt for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, fraying, or stretching. If you notice any issues, the belt needs to be replaced.
3. If the belt appears to be in good condition, try rotating the drum manually. If the drum is difficult to turn or won’t rotate at all, the belt is likely the problem.

If you need to replace the drive belt, follow these steps:

Don’t forget to prioritize safety by wearing gloves and disconnecting the dryer from its power source before attempting any repairs or replacements.

Examine the Start Button

Another potential cause of your Kenmore 80 Series dryer not starting is a faulty start button. Luckily, testing the start button is a simple process.

To begin, unplug the dryer and locate the start button on the control panel. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the start button. Set the multimeter to “Rx1” and touch the probes to the start button terminals. If the multimeter displays a reading of zero, the start button is functioning correctly. If there’s no continuity, the start button is faulty and needs to be replaced.

If you’re unsure of how to replace the start button, refer to the appliance’s user manual or consult a professional technician.

Remember, safety is always a priority, and you should only attempt repairs if you feel comfortable and confident in your abilities.

Example of Testing Start Button with Multimeter:

Check the Motor

When you press the start button on your Kenmore 80 Series dryer, the motor is responsible for initiating the rotation of the drum. If the motor is faulty, it won’t start, and your dryer won’t function properly.

To test the motor, you’ll need to have a multimeter. First, unplug the dryer to prevent any accidents. Next, locate the motor and remove it from the dryer’s cabinet. With the multimeter, test the motor’s continuity and resistance. If the reading is out of range, it indicates a faulty motor that needs replacing.

If you’re not familiar with the process of removing and replacing the motor, it’s best to consult a professional. Motor replacement can be a complicated task and requires specific tools and knowledge.

Kenmore Dryer Motor Testing Steps

1. Unplug the dryer and remove the rear access panel to expose the motor.
2. Disconnect the wires connected to the motor.
3. With a multimeter, test the motor’s continuity by placing one probe on a motor terminal and the other on the metal frame. If the reading is zero, the motor has continuity.
4. Test the motor’s resistance by placing one probe on a motor terminal and the other on the other terminal. If the reading is within the manufacturer’s specifications, the motor is good. If not, it needs to be replaced.

If your Kenmore 80 Series dryer’s motor is not functioning correctly, replacing it is the best option. However, before replacing the motor, you should also check the thermal fuse, the drive belt, and other related components to ensure that they are not the cause of the issue.

Inspect the Timer

If all the previous steps have failed to fix the issue of your Kenmore 80 Series dryer not starting, it’s time to check the timer. The timer is responsible for managing the different cycles of the appliance, so if it’s faulty, it may cause the dryer not to start or advance through the cycles.

Start by disconnecting the power supply and accessing the dryer’s control panel. The timer is usually located behind the control panel, so you’ll need to remove the screws and take off the panel to access it. Once you’ve located the timer, inspect it carefully for any signs of damage, such as burnt wires or frayed connections.

Next, use a multimeter to test the timer’s continuity and determine if it’s working correctly. Follow the instructions in the multimeter’s user manual to connect the probes to the timer’s terminals and check the reading. If the multimeter shows no continuity, it means the timer is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Replacing the Timer

If you’ve determined that the timer is faulty, the next step is to replace it. Start by ordering a new timer from a reliable supplier or your manufacturer. Once you’ve received the replacement timer, follow these steps to install it:

1. Disconnect the power supply and remove the control panel as explained above.
2. Take a picture of the wires connected to the old timer to ensure you reconnect them correctly.
3. Disconnect the wires from the old timer and remove it from the dryer by unscrewing the mounting screws.
4. Place the new timer in the same position as the old one and secure it using the mounting screws.
5. Reconnect the wires to the new timer, referring to the picture you took in step 2 to ensure correct connections.
6. Replace the control panel, screw it in place, and reconnect the power supply.
7. Test the dryer to ensure that the new timer has resolved the issue and the appliance is running correctly.

If you’re unsure about any of the repair steps or need further assistance, consult a professional technician or your manufacturer for guidance.

Examine the Control Board

If you have ruled out all other possible causes for your Kenmore 80 Series dryer not starting, the control board may be the culprit. The control board is the electronic component that manages and regulates the dryer’s functions, including the cycle settings, timer, and temperature control. If it malfunctions, it can cause the dryer to stop working.

To test the control board, first, unplug the dryer from the power source. Then, remove the control panel from the top of the dryer and inspect the control board for any visible signs of damage or burning. If you don’t see any visible damage, use a multimeter to test the control board for continuity.

If the control board fails the continuity test, it will need to be replaced. Refer to your Kenmore 80 Series dryer manual for the proper part number and replacement instructions. Make sure to disconnect all electrical components before proceeding with the replacement.

Replacing the control board can be a complex procedure, and it’s important to prioritize safety. If you’re not confident in your abilities, consider consulting a professional to ensure the repair is done correctly.

It’s crucial to keep your Kenmore 80 Series dryer running smoothly to avoid unnecessary repair costs and maintain the efficiency of the appliance. By approaching the troubleshooting process systematically and testing each component thoroughly, you can fix the issue and prevent future problems.

Next Steps:

• If you have not found the cause of your Kenmore 80 Series dryer not starting, proceed to Section 11: Check for Other Faulty Components
• If you have resolved the issue, congratulations! Your Kenmore 80 Series dryer is working correctly once again.

Check for Other Faulty Components

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting methods we’ve outlined so far and your Kenmore 80 Series dryer still won’t start, there may be other faulty components to consider.

One of the possibly faulty components is the thermal cutoff fuse, which can prevent the dryer from heating and starting. The thermal cutoff fuse is a safety feature that cuts off power to the heating element when the dryer overheats. If it’s blown, you’ll need to replace it.

Another component to consider is the high limit thermostat, which regulates the dryer’s temperature. If it’s faulty, it can prevent the dryer from starting or heating. You can test the thermostat with a multimeter to determine if it’s working correctly. If not, it’s time to replace it.

If none of the above components are faulty, it may be time to check the wiring and connections in your dryer. Inspect the wiring for any visible signs of damage or wear and ensure all connections are secure and tight. Faulty wiring can cause the dryer to malfunction and not start.

If you’re comfortable with using a multimeter and have experience working with electrical appliances, you can test the dryer’s motor and control board to rule out any faults. However, we recommend consulting with a professional if you’re not confident in your abilities.

By identifying and fixing faulty components, you can get your Kenmore 80 Series dryer up and running smoothly again. If you’re still experiencing issues, it may be time to call in a professional for further assistance.

Conclusion

Dealing with a Kenmore 80 Series dryer that won’t start can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting techniques, you can save money and get your appliance running again. Remember to always prioritize safety when working with electrical appliances and seek professional advice if needed.

In summary, start by checking the power supply and ensuring the cord, outlet, and circuit breaker are functioning correctly. If the power supply is not the issue, move on to examine the start switch and door switch, as they may be malfunctioning and preventing the dryer from starting.

Replacing Faulty Components

If you’ve ruled out the start and door switches, the thermal fuse, drive belt, motor, timer, and control board are all potential culprits. Testing and replacing these components can be more complex, and it may be worth consulting a professional if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the repair steps.

While it can be tempting to replace a faulty component immediately, it’s wise to test it first to make sure it’s genuinely causing the problem. We hope this guide has provided you with the knowledge and confidence to troubleshoot and fix your Kenmore 80 Series dryer when it won’t start!