Appliance Won't Start — Common Causes & Parts

Appliance Won't Start

When an appliance has power but won't start, the problem is usually one of these components.

Washer Won't Start

  1. Lid Switch / Door Latch — Most common. The safety switch prevents operation when lid/door is open. Test with multimeter.
  2. Control Board — Look for burnt components or failed relays on the board.
  3. Timer (older models) — Timer motor fails and the cycle never advances to start.

Dryer Won't Start

  1. Door Switch — #1 cause. Broken door switch = dryer won't run even with door closed.
  2. Thermal Fuse — Blown fuse cuts all power to controls and motor.
  3. Start Switch — The push-to-start switch itself fails.

Dishwasher Won't Start

  1. Door Latch — Dishwasher won't run unless the door latch is fully engaged and the switch activates.
  2. Control Panel — Child lock enabled accidentally, or control board failed.
  3. Thermal Fuse — Cuts power to controls after overheat event.

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