Home Garden

How to Fix a Whirlpool Gas Dryer That Won't Ignite

Gas dryers save their owners a lot of time and energy by drying their clothes for them; however, when problems arise it can cost a lot of unnecessary money. When your Whirlpool gas dryer refuses to ignite and start the drying process, it does not mean that you need to hire an appliance repairman. You may be able to fix the problem on your own with some simple troubleshooting.

Things You'll Need

  • Digital or analog multimeter
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pull out the dryer so that you can see behind it and check on the electrical plug. Even gas dryers need electricity to run properly. Make sure the dryer is plugged in and that the outlet is functional.

    • 2

      Close the dryer door firmly. Make sure there are no pieces of clothing catching in the door. If the door is open even a crack, the dryer won’t ignite.

    • 3

      Check the door switch to make sure it is working properly. When the door closes, it presses the switch in, which allows the dryer to turn on and ignite. If this switch is defective, it needs to be replaced.

    • 4

      Push the start button and hold it in firmly for several seconds. It's possible you haven't been holding it in long enough for the dryer to start.

    • 5

      If the dryer won't start or produce heat, use a multimeter to test the switch, dryer heating element, dryer igniter or thermal fuse. Remove each part from the dryer and follow the multimeter's instructions for testing the dryer's parts for electrical continuity. Replace any part that fails.