As reliable as your dryer may be, it can be alarming if it suddenly won’t start. Why is my LG dryer not turning on? Sometimes an electrical issue, and not a dryer malfunction, is the problem. Check your power sources at the outlet and circuit breaker to make sure the dryer is receiving adequate power. Here’s how to troubleshoot common causes and solutions when your LG dryer won’t start.
Common Causes for an LG Dryer Not Turning On
While pinpointing the reason for an LG dryer not turning on can seem overwhelming, there are really several main causes. We’ll detail the most likely explanations to help determine if a DIY fix or professional repair is required.
1. Dryer Isn’t Getting Power
LG dryer troubleshooting should first rule out any power issues. If the dryer isn’t receiving adequate electrical power, it may not be able to start. How can you determine if a power problem is responsible? Open the dryer door to see if the drum light turns on. If the light is off, a power issue may be the cause.
Make sure the dryer is properly plugged into a functioning outlet without the use of an extension cord. Also check your home’s circuit breaker box for flipped breakers, repositioning any if needed. Following these evaluations, the dryer may require a hard reset to turn back on.
Follow these steps to perform an LG dryer hard reset:
- Unplug the dryer.
- Press and hold the POWER/START button for 5 seconds.
- Press and hold the PLAY/PAUSE button for 5 seconds.
- Plug the dryer back in. The drum light and dryer should turn on.
2. LG Dryer Child Lock Is On
To prevent accidents or injury, the child lock setting disables all dryer functions. If you find your LG dryer not starting, check to see if this setting is engaged. Usually, the dryer display will show the code CL if the child lock setting is on.
On most dryer models, the child lock function can be turned off by pressing and holding the CHILD LOCK button for 3 seconds.
3. Dryer Door Won’t Latch
An LG dryer not turning on could also have a faulty door latch. This latch is a safety device that prevents the dryer from starting if the door isn’t properly closed. If the door is closed completely, you will hear an audible click as the latch engages. If you don’t hear this click and the dryer won’t start, it’s possible the latch is broken and requires professional replacement.
*Pro tip: Be as gentle as you can when opening and closing your dryer door. Slamming it shut can cause the door latch mechanism to fail over time, leaving you with a dryer that won’t turn on.
4. Defective LG Dryer Start Switch
Sometimes an LG dryer not turning on can be due to a defective start switch. This switch is typically located behind the POWER/PAUSE button under the display panel. When the POWER/PAUSE button is pressed, the start switch signals the control panel to start the dryer.
When the switch is defective, it won’t be able to signal the control panel to begin dryer function. If the dryer makes no noise or response when you press the POWER/PAUSE button, it’s likely the start switch is at fault. Replace the switch if multimeter testing confirms it’s defective with a lack of continuity.
5. Blown LG Dryer Thermal Fuse
All modern dryers have a thermal fuse that will blow if the dryer is close to overheating. If it seems as though your dryer takes forever to dry before the thermal fuse blows, it’s possible the dryer ducts are blocked. This common problem limits airflow, leading to longer drying times and possible overheating that triggers the fuse. If the thermal fuse blows, it’s recommended that you check the dryer ducts and clean them as needed.
If the ducts are free of blockages, it’s possible the fuse was faulty. In either case, a blown LG dryer thermal fuse requires replacement for the dryer to start again.
Appliance King of America can provide expert dryer repair service. Call us if you find your LG dryer not turning on or for any laundry appliance concern!
