Whirlpool Gas Dryer Not Starting? Quick Fixes to Get It Running

We’ve all been there – you toss a load of clothes into your trusty Whirlpool gas dryer, hit start, and…nothing. That sinking feeling as your whirlpool gas dryer not starting can put a real damper on laundry day. But fear not, my friend! With a bit of troubleshooting know-how, you can likely get that bad boy up and running again without calling in the professionals.

Troubleshooting a Whirlpool Gas Dryer That Won’t Start

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty fixes, let’s start with a quick checklist to narrow down the culprit behind your non-starting Whirlpool gas dryer:

• Is the dryer plugged in securely? Sounds silly, but you’d be surprised how often a loose plug is the root of the problem.
• Is the gas supply line connected and turned on? No gas = no heat = no drying action.
• Is the dryer door shut all the way? Many models have a safety switch that prevents the dryer from running if the door is even slightly ajar.
• Have you checked the circuit breaker or fuse box? A tripped breaker or blown fuse could be why your Whirlpool gas dryer isn’t getting any power.

If you’ve ruled out those basic issues, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get a little more hands-on with the troubleshooting process.

Common Reasons Why a Whirlpool Gas Dryer Fails to Start

There are a few common culprits that tend to be behind a stubborn, non-starting Whirlpool gas dryer. Understanding these potential issues can help you narrow down your troubleshooting efforts:

• Faulty igniter – The igniter is responsible for, well, igniting the gas that heats the dryer. If it’s on the fritz, your dryer simply won’t start up.
• Blown thermal fuse – This important little safety component can burn out over time, causing your dryer to refuse to start as a protective measure.
• Malfunctioning door switch – Remember that safety switch we mentioned earlier? If it’s not working correctly, it could be giving your dryer the wrong signal.
• Issues with the control board – The control board is like the brain of your dryer, so any glitches here can seriously hamper operations.

Identifying which of these parts might be the weak link will help you move forward with the appropriate fix. Speaking of which…

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix a Non-Starting Whirlpool Gas Dryer

Here’s a step-by-step rundown of some of the most common DIY fixes for a Whirlpool gas dryer that just won’t cooperate:

1. Replace the thermal fuse – This relatively inexpensive part is often one of the first things to check. Unplug your dryer, locate and remove the bloated or visibly burned fuse, and swap in a fresh replacement fuse of the same type.
2. Check and replace the igniter – A faulty igniter is another frequent offender. First, inspect it visually for any cracks or damage. If it looks okay, use a multimeter to test it for continuity. If it fails, disconnect power, locate the igniter, and install a new one following your model’s specific instructions.
3. Examine the door switch – The door switch is usually located near the door latch. Use your multimeter to test it for continuity when the door is closed. If it fails the test, you’ll likely need to order a replacement switch and install it carefully following the directions for your model.
4. Reset the control board – For an unresponsive control board, start by unplugging your dryer for a full 5-10 minutes to reset it. If that doesn’t work, you may need to visually inspect the board for any burn marks, bulging, or other damage that could warrant a full control board replacement.

Of course, if any of these fixes seem daunting or you’re dealing with a particularly complicated issue, don’t be afraid to call in a qualified technician. Your safety should always come first!

Preventative Maintenance for Whirlpool Gas Dryers

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as they say. To help avoid frustrating issues and keep your Whirlpool gas dryer humming along, be sure to follow these simple maintenance tips:

• Clean the lint trap before every load – Lint buildup can restrict airflow and put extra strain on your dryer’s components.
• Check and clean the exhaust vent regularly – Blocked or clogged vents can also cause overheating and premature part failure.
• Replace failing gaskets and seals – Cracked or worn door gaskets and blower seals can impact your dryer’s efficiency and performance.
• Consider an annual service appointment – Having a professional give your dryer a full inspection and tune-up can help catch small issues before they become big headaches.

A little preventative TLC goes a long way in extending the life of your trusty laundry companion!

As handy as some of these DIY fixes may be, there are definitely times when it’s safer and smarter to call in the professionals. If you encounter any of the following scenarios with your Whirlpool gas dryer, contacting a qualified repair technician is your best bet:

• You’ve worked through all the basic troubleshooting steps with no success
• You smell gas at any point, which could indicate a dangerous leak
• You have recurring issues, even after attempting repairs
• Your dryer is older and you’re unsure about the risks of DIY repairs
• The thought of messing with gas lines or electrical components makes you uncomfortable

At the end of the day, your safety has to be the top priority. Don’t be afraid to call in backup when you’re feeling out of your depth – a professional repair can save you a huge headache in the long run.