Dryer Repair: Door Switch Testing and Replacement

The door switch is one of the most integral parts of a dryer and thus will not run if it is not working as it prevents the dryer from running when the door is open. Knowing how to fix one will assist in easy dryer repair.

Step 1 – Finding the Switch
This switch may be accessible from the outside door, if not the top of the dryer will need to be removed. It is simply assembled with two lead wires. As with any electrical work, be sure to turn off any circuit breakers and/or unplug the drier so that it is not connected electrically.

Step 2 – Checking the Switch
If the dryer has a latch on the door, make sure this is free of dirt, lint and is properly adjusted before making any replacements. Any misalignment of the latch can prevent the door from closing and thus preventing the switch from being activated.

When removing the wires, do not pull on the actual wires, only on the connector. This may cause them to break or pull out of the connector, be sure to double check which wire goes where so that it can put back together properly later on.

Step 3 – Testing with the VOM
The switch can be tested with a volt-ohm-milliammeter (VOM) set to the RX1 scale. Disconnect the switch leads and clip one VOM probe to each of the switch terminals. Press it closed, the VOM should read zero. If it does not, the switch is faulty and should be replaced with an identical one.

Step 4 – Removing the Old Switch
You should be able to remove the switch by popping it out or removing a screw or two. If this is not the case, the entire front panel may need to be removed.

Consider labeling or writing down what each of the two wires is so that they can be reattached correctly later on. Both of these wires are connected with metal slip-on connectors, to remove them simply grasp and pull firmly. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If needed, use needlepoint pliers to assist you. The switch should pop out easily.

Step 5 – Installing the New Switch
Depending on the ease of removing the old one may determine how easily the new one goes in. Once it is reinstalled, and all the wires are attached and any removed parts are reassembled you should have a fully functioning dryer switch.

Step 6 – Final Checks
You may consider running your drier through a test run to ensure that everything is working. If something went wrong, the dryer will not work.