How to replace a laundry center dryer door switch
This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the dryer door switch on a laundry center. The dryer door switch lets the dryer run when the dryer door is closed and stops the dryer when the door opens. If the door switch breaks, the dryer won't start when you close the door. To test the door switch, open the dryer door and press and release the door switch lever. If the drum light stays on, the door switch is probably broken. Replace the dryer door switch with the manufacturer-approved laundry center parts.
This basic repair procedure works for common Kenmore, Frigidaire, GE, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Gibson, and White-Westinghouse laundry centers.
Replacing a dryer door switch in a laundry center.
Instructions
- 01.
Shut off the power
Unplug the laundry center. If the dryer uses gas, shut off the gas supply.
Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
- 02.
Release the control panel
Remove the mounting screws from the front access panel and pull off the front access panel.
Remove the control panel mounting screws.
Pull the control panel down and forward to release it from the laundry center frame.
Let the control panel hang by the wires below the dryer front panel.
PHOTO: Remove the access panel mounting screws.
PHOTO: Remove the front access panel.
PHOTO: Remove the control panel screws.
PHOTO: Release the control panel.
- 03.
Remove the dryer door switch
Open the dryer door.
Reach behind the dryer front panel and squeeze the mounting tabs while pushing the door switch through the front of the panel.
Disconnect the door switch wires.
PHOTO: Push the door switch through the front panel.
PHOTO: Disconnect the door switch wires.
PHOTO: Remove the dryer door switch.
- 04.
Install the new door switch
Connect the wires to the new door switch.
Push the new door switch into the front dryer panel.
PHOTO: Connect the wires to the new door switch.
- 05.
Reinstall the control panel
Push the control panel onto the laundry center frame and engage the console locking tabs.
Reinstall the control panel mounting screws.
Reinstall the front access panel and secure it with the mounting screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the control panel.
PHOTO: Reinstall the front access panel.
- 06.
Restore power to the laundry center
Plug the laundry center into the wall outlet. If it the dryer uses gas, turn on the gas supply.
Most common symptoms to help you fix your laundry centers
Choose a symptom to see related laundry center repairs.
Main causes: lack of water supply, failed lid switch or lid lock, bad water level pressure switch, control system failur…
Main causes: bad lid switch or lid lock, drive motor failure, broken motor coupler, bad timer, faulty electronic control…
Main causes: blocked exhaust vent, clogged lint screen, bad timer, moisture sensing problems, weak gas valve coils, bad …
Main causes: broken dryer drive belt, weak drive motor, binding drum seals…
Main causes: control system failure, broken heating element, bad gas valve coils, gas supply failure, voltage supply pro…
Main causes: unbalanced load, broken suspension springs or shocks, worn snubber ring…
Main causes: door not fully shut, bad door switch, faulty push-to-start switch, wiring failure, bad drive motor, blown f…
Main causes: clogged drain system, blocked drain hose, bad drain pump…
Main causes: broken lid switch or lid lock, faulty drive motor, drain system problem, broken drive system components…
Most common repair guides to help fix your laundry centers
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your laundry center.
How to replace a laundry center washer timer
If the washer doesn't fill, spin or drain, the timer could be the problem. …
How to replace a laundry center washer snubber ring
If the washer tub bangs the cabinet during the spin cycle even though the load is balanced, you might need to replace th…
How to replace a laundry center dryer door switch
The dryer won’t start if the door switch is defective. Your can replace it in about 15 minutes.…
Effective articles & videos to help repair your laundry centers
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your laundry center.
Learn how to repair broken, frayed or damaged wires in your appliances.…
Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working…
Help your washer do its job better by following these simple tips.…