Dryer: Why won't my dryer door stay shut?
If the dryer door doesn't stay shut when you close it, something is awry with the door latching components. A quick inspection should reveal whether the door strike or door catch is at fault. The bad news is that the dryer won't run if the door doesn't close. The good news is that replacing both components are quick, inexpensive fixes.
THESE REPAIRS MAY HELP SOLVE YOUR DRYER PROBLEM
Replace the dryer door catch
The door catch is the part of the door latch assembly that's usually attached to the front panel, but sometimes is attached to the door. When the door is closed, the spring-loaded door catch encloses and grips the door strike, which is mounted across from it. The tension of the door catch keeps the door from opening until it's manually opened. If the door won't latch closed and the strike is intact, replace the catch. If the door catch holds the door closed to start the cycle but can't continue to hold the door shut during the cycle to keep the dryer running, replace the door catch.
Dryer door catch
Replace the dryer door strike
The dryer door strike is the part of the door latch assembly. It's usually attached to the door, but sometimes is attached to the front panel. When the door is closed, the door strike is pushed into the spring-loaded door catch mounted across from it. The tension of the catch keeps the door from opening until it's manually opened. If the door strike damaged, replace the strike. If the door won't latch closed and the strike is intact, replace the catch. If the door strike holds the door closed to start the cycle but can't continue holding the door shut during the cycle to keep the dryer running, replace the door strike.
Dryer door strike
Symptoms common to all dryers
Repair guides common to all dryers
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