Reasons Why Your Amana Dryer Won’t Start

There are a few common reasons why an Amana dryer won’t start, which include an incorrect setting, the control lock being enabled, a power issue, a defective door switch, or a faulty thermal fuse. To get the dryer started, you should troubleshoot each issue one at a time. Most are easy-to-fix DIY and can be resolved without paying an expensive repairman or needing parts.

Here are five common reasons why your Amana dryer may not be turning on and their respective fixes:

Incorrect Setting: Make sure you’ve selected the correct drying cycle and settings and that everything is properly configured before you start the dryer.
Control Lock Enabled: Make sure the control lock feature isn’t activated. This lock prevents the dryer from starting. Look for the control lock button or refer to the user manual to disable it.
Power Supply Issues: Confirm that the dryer is receiving power. Make sure it’s plugged in securely and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Try testing the outlet with another device or a meter to make sure it’s working.
Defective Door Switch: Inspect the door switch that signals when the door is closed. If the switch is faulty or isn’t engaging properly, the dryer won’t start. Replace the door switch if necessary.
Faulty Thermal Fuse: The thermal fuse can blow due to overheating, causing the dryer to stop functioning. Test the thermal fuse with a multimeter and replace it if it’s faulty.

By checking each of these potential issues, you may be able to troubleshoot why your Amana dryer isn’t starting and fix the problem.

Why Won’t My Amana Dryer Start?

In my experience, when an Amana dryer won’t start, there’s usually a simple fix. They’re a very reliable dryer, and issues are usually fairly easy to troubleshoot and fix. However, if a part malfunctions, you may need a professional repair. Luckily, figuring out if there’s a simple issue or a more serious one is pretty easy.

In the next section, I’ll go over the 5 most common reasons why an Amana dryer doesn’t start, how to troubleshoot each issue, and how to fix them. If none of these issues fixes your dryer, you probably have a more serious problem with a defective or malfunctioning part.

1. Dryer Isn’t Getting Power

An Amana dryer won’t start if it isn’t receiving enough power. Even Amana gas dryers require electricity to power the control panel and other functions required to make it start and run properly. When an Amana dryer won’t start, the first thing I check is the power supply. This usually means an issue with the outlet, a fuse, or the power cord.

To troubleshoot the problem, check each potential issue one at a time.

The following power issues can prevent a dryer from starting:

Dryer isn’t plugged in: Make sure the dryer is plugged into an outlet.
Outlet issues: Make sure the outlet has power. Test it with another appliance or a meter to make sure it’s working properly.
Circuit breaker: Make sure your dryer’s circuit breaker or fuse hasn’t been tripped. Electric dryers use 2 fuses or breakers, while gas dryers use 1. Reset any tripped breakers or replace broken fuses.
Power cord: Check the power cord for damage. Then make sure it’s connected to the dryer properly. If the cord comes loose or is damaged, your dryer may not receive power even though it’s plugged into a functioning outlet.
Dryer is plugged in with an extension cord: Don’t plug a dryer into an outlet using an extension cord. They may not be able to handle the amount of power a dryer needs. Also, there could be an issue with the cord.
GFCI: If your dryer is plugged into a GFCI outlet, make sure the breaker inside the outlet hasn’t been tripped. To check, simply hit the reset button on the outlet.

2. Dryer Door Not Shut

An Amana dryer won’t start if the door isn’t completely closed as a safety precaution. When the door is completely shut, it engages the door latch, signaling to the dryer that a cycle can begin. If your Amana dryer isn’t starting, make sure nothing is caught in the door, which could be preventing the latch from engaging.

A common cause of door issues is the rubber stripping that seals the dryer door or fabric caught near the hinges or latch. Check for obstructions along the door edges, hinges, and latch.
Inspect the latch for damage. If the latch breaks, it won’t engage properly, and the dryer won’t start. Listen carefully when you close the door. When the latch engages, you should hear a clicking sound. If you don’t hear the sound, your latch may be broken or not engaging.
Check for clothing that may be blocking the latch or preventing the door from closing all the way.

You can use a multimeter to test a latch. A broken latch will have a lack of continuity which will show up on the meter. But the best method is to listen for the click.

If you have a broken door latch, your Amana dryer won’t start until you replace it. Luckily, it’s a very cheap plastic part that you can buy on Amazon for under $10. They’re very easy to fix DIY with simple tools, so you shouldn’t need to call a repairman.

3. Problem With Dryer Settings

If your Amana dryer isn’t starting, it may be due to your settings. Make sure the Control Lock setting is turned off. This feature locks all control panel functions to prevent an accidental start. A light above the Control Lock button should shine when the control lock is enabled. To disable the Control Lock function, press and hold the Cycle Signal button for 3 seconds. Once the control lock is turned off, your dryer should start.

Check your cycle settings if your dryer isn’t drying your clothes properly or doesn’t start when your press the button. An Amana dryer must be set on a Timed Dry or Automatic Dry Cycle to start immediately. If it’s set to Wrinkle Reduction, there may be a delayed start.

4. Amana Dryer Thermal Fuse

If the thermal fuse on your Amana dryer is blown, the appliance won’t start. Amana dryers have a thermal fuse built in, which prevents the appliance from overheating and causing a fire. Once the fuse blows, it won’t start until you replace it.

A blown thermal fuse can’t be repaired, it must be replaced, and the dryer won’t start again until it is. Thermal fuses aren’t like circuit breakers; they’re single-use only and must be replaced once they trip.

A thermal fuse can blow if it’s defective, but if you have a blown fuse, it’s more likely that there’s an issue with the dryer that caused it to blow. Check the vent for obstructions. If the dryer vent clogs, it can cause the appliance to overheat, which blows the fuse.

You can buy a dryer fuse on Amazon for under $10; just make sure you buy the right one for your model dryer. If they don’t have it, contact Amana to get a new one.

Replacing a blown thermal fuse is an easy DIY project. You simply pull out the old one and insert the new one. Generally, you can pull them out by hand, but if it’s tight, use small pliers.

5. Defective Amana Dryer Start Switch

To start an Amana dryer, you must press the start button. Below the start button is a start switch that signals the dryer to start once it’s depressed. If your start switch is broken, the dryer won’t start because the motor won’t receive the signal to begin.

To troubleshoot the problem, listen for a humming sound when you press the start button. If you hear a humming sound, the start switch probably isn’t the problem because the motor is receiving a signal from the switch.

However, if the dryer is silent, the switch is probably defective and should be replaced.

Replacing a dryer start switch can be done as a DIY project. However, it’s a little more involved than replacing a blown fuse or a door latch. To get to the start switch, you must remove some panels from the dryer. If you’re not familiar with dryer repairs or don’t have tools, I recommend calling a repairman.

If you are familiar with making some dryer repairs and have basic tools, replacing the switch is easy once you get to it. It’s typically located just under the start button.

Troubleshooting Tips For Amana Dryer Not Starting

When your Amana dryer refuses to start, try these troubleshooting tips to identify and resolve the issue:

Power Issues:
- Make sure the dryer is plugged into a functioning outlet.
- Check the outlet to make sure it’s working properly.
- If your outlet is a GFCI, make sure its breaker isn’t tripped.
- Check the circuit breaker or fuse box for any tripped breakers or blown fuses.
- Avoid using extension cords as they may not provide sufficient electrical voltage.
Door Latch Problem:
- Make sure the dryer door is completely closed, as an incomplete latch prevents the dryer from starting.
- Check for obstructions that may be blocking the door latch.
- Test the latch with a multimeter for continuity and replace it if broken.
Cycle Settings and Control Lock:
- Verify that the dryer settings are appropriate for the load, including temperature and drying time.
- Make sure the dryer is set to a Timed Dry or Automatic Dry Cycle for an immediate start.
- Disable the Control Lock feature, usually indicated by an illuminated light, by pressing and holding the Cycle Signal button.
Thermal Fuse Failure:
- Inspect the thermal fuse, which may blow if the dryer overheats due to vent obstructions.
- Replace the blown thermal fuse to restore dryer operation.
- Clear any vent blockages to prevent overheating.
Defective Start Switch:
- Listen for a humming noise when pressing the Start button, indicating a functioning start switch.
- If the dryer remains silent, the start switch may be defective and should be replaced.

My Amana Dryer Has Power, And The Light Comes On, But It Won’t Start?

If your Amana dryer has power and the light comes on, but it won’t start, the cause is usually the door switch, the start switch, a blown thermal fuse, or a board malfunction.

Troubleshoot and check each potential issue to find and fix the problem:

Door Switch Issue: Check if the dryer door is fully closed and properly engaging the door switch. A faulty door switch can prevent the dryer from running, even when it has power.
Start Switch Problem: Test the start switch by pressing it and listening for any humming noise. If there is no sound or response, the start switch may be defective and require replacement.
Thermal Fuse Failure: A blown thermal fuse can interrupt the dryer’s operation. 4. Examine the thermal fuse and replace it if necessary. However, it’s important to determine the cause of the fuse blowing, such as vent blockages, to prevent a recurring issue.
Timer or Control Board Malfunction: A malfunctioning timer or control board can also prevent the dryer from running. Consider inspecting these components for any visible signs of damage or consult a professional technician for further assistance.

If you’re unable to identify and fix the issue on your own, call a repairman or Amana. If you’re lucky, the dryer’s warranty may cover the issue.

Why is My Amana Dryer Turning On But Not Starting?

If your Amana dryer is turning on but not starting when you press the start button, there could be several reasons for this issue which include the door switch, a control board problem, the power cord, the start switch, or a timer malfunction.

Here are some potential causes to troubleshoot:

Door Switch: The door switch may not be recognizing that the dryer door is closed. Ensure that the door is fully closed and the switch is engaged properly.
Electronic Control Board: A failure in the main electronic control board can prevent the dryer from starting. If this component is malfunctioning, it may need to be replaced.
Power Cord: Check if the power cord is damaged or improperly connected. A broken power cord can disrupt the power supply to the dryer, resulting in it not starting.
Push-to-Start Switch: A failed push-to-start switch can also be the reason why the dryer doesn’t start. This switch needs to be operational for the dryer to initiate the drying cycle.
Timer Malfunction: A faulty timer can cause the dryer not to start. If the timer is not functioning correctly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

To fix the issue, you can try troubleshooting each item one at a time. If your dryer is turning on but not starting, the problem isn’t with power, so it’s probably something simple to fix, like a switch, the power cord, or a malfunction.

To fix minor malfunctions, try resetting the dryer. To do it, turn the dryer off and unplug it, wait 60 seconds, then restore power to the dryer and turn it on. This is called a power cycle. It resets the dryer’s control board, which fixes many minor software glitches and bugs.

Where Is The Fuse On An Amana Dryer?

An Amana dryer’s thermal fuse is typically located in the back of the dryer, near the exhaust vent. It’s designed to protect the dryer from overheating. However, the exact location may vary depending on the specific model Amana dryer you have.

To access and locate the thermal fuse, you’ll need to follow these steps:

Safety Precautions: Make sure the dryer is unplugged from the power source to prevent any electrical accidents.
Remove the Back Panel or Front Panel: Depending on the dryer model, you’ll either need to remove the back panel or the front panel to access the internal components.
Locate the Thermal Fuse: Look for a small, cylindrical component with wires attached to it. It’s typically white or silver in color and may have a label indicating “thermal fuse” or “thermal cutoff.”
Replacement or Testing: If you suspect the thermal fuse is faulty, you can use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If it fails the continuity test or appears damaged, it should be replaced with a new thermal fuse.

Always consult the dryer’s manual or refer to specific instructions for your model to ensure accurate identification and replacement of the thermal fuse. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, I would call a repairman or Amana for help.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix An Amana Dryer That Won’t Start?

The cost to fix an Amana dryer that won’t start can vary depending on the cause of the issue and the specific repairs required.

Here are a few factors that can affect the cost:

DIY vs. Professional Repair: If you have the skills and knowledge, you may be able to troubleshoot and fix the problem yourself, which can save on repair costs. However, if the issue is complex or requires specialized expertise, it’s best to hire a professional technician. Doing repairs yourself is a lot cheaper than calling a repairman because parts are typically much less than labor. For example, replacing a broken switch is around $100, but the part is less than $10.
Parts Replacement: The cost of parts can vary depending on the specific component that needs to be replaced. Common parts that may cause a dryer not to start include door switches, start switches, timers, and thermal fuses. The price of these parts can range from a few dollars to over $50, depending on the model and supplier.
Labor and Service Fees: If you choose to hire a professional repair service, the cost will likely include labor charges and any applicable service fees. These charges can vary based on the repair company and your location. In my area, it costs $100 just for a repairman to come and look at a dryer, plus the time it takes to fix it.

As a rough estimate, the cost of repairing an Amana dryer that won’t start can range from around $100 for simple DIY fixes (e.g., replacing a door switch) to a few hundred dollars for more complex repairs involving multiple parts or professional assistance.

I recommend getting multiple quotes before hiring someone and calling Amana because your dryer may still be under warranty.

Why Won’t My Amana Dryer Start After A Power Outage?

The most common reasons why an Amana dryer won’t start after a power outage is a blown fuse inside the machine or a tripped circuit breaker, or a household electrical fuse. First, check your breaker panel or fuse box for either a tripped breaker or a blown fuse. If you find one, reset the breaker or replace the fuse. Then try and start the dryer. If the fuse or breaker was the issue, it should start.

Next check the fuses inside your dryer. An Amana dryer has several fuses that can blow during a power outage. Make sure all the dryer fuses are intact and tight.

Finally, check the outlet. If your dryer outlet has a GFCI breaker built in, it could trip during a power outage. To reset a GFCI outlet, simply press the reset button on the front of the outlet.

How Do I Know If My Dryer Fuse Is Bad?

If your Amana dryer doesn’t start it could be due to a bad fuse. To know if your dryer fuse is bad, test it with a multimeter. First, set your multimeter to the lowest setting of ohms resistance. Then touch each end of the fuse with a prong to check for continuity. If your multimeter measures zero ohms, then your fuse is still good. Any other reading means the thermal fuse has blown.

Summary: Reasons Why Your Amana Dryer Won’t Start

Here are five common reasons why your Amana dryer may not be turning on and their respective fixes:

Incorrect Setting: Make sure you’ve selected the correct drying cycle and settings and that everything is properly configured before you start the dryer.
Control Lock Enabled: Make sure the control lock feature isn’t activated. This lock prevents the dryer from starting. Look for the control lock button or refer to the user manual to disable it.
Power Supply Issues: Confirm that the dryer is receiving power. Make sure it’s plugged in securely and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Try testing the outlet with another device or a meter to make sure it’s working.
Defective Door Switch: Inspect the door switch that signals when the door is closed. If the switch is faulty or isn’t engaging properly, the dryer won’t start. Replace the door switch if necessary.
Faulty Thermal Fuse: The thermal fuse can blow due to overheating, causing the dryer to stop functioning. Test the thermal fuse with a multimeter and replace it if it’s faulty.

By checking each of these potential issues, you may be able to troubleshoot why your Amana dryer isn’t starting and fix the problem.

If you have any questions or comments about why your Amana dryer won’t start, email any time.