After a single beep, the Whirlpool duet dryer should start spinning. This step indicates its readiness for action. Consequently, if you suddenly find the machine not starting after powering on, it can be frustrating, especially if the laundry is already in the washer. However, this shows that there are issues to resolve.
So, what does this particular issue indicate?
A blown fuse at the thermal unit, an error with the heater relay on the control board, or issues with the pulley system are likely reasons for this problem. In rare cases, the power unit is faulty. However, easy diagnostic steps will help you ascertain the cause of the problem. You can then apply the proper fix.
This article will espouse the reasons mentioned above to provide more understanding. The diagnoses are also in simple steps. Hence you will be able to fix this problem with simple tools after reading this post.
Read: Whirlpool Washer Error Code 5d
Reasons for Whirlpool Duet Dryer Beeps Once Won’t Start and Fixes to it
Sometimes, error codes appear on the user interface to help indicate the problem. However, this particular issue does not display error codes. Hence some faults with different systems of the duet dryer could be responsible for the problem. Here are the possible reasons for whirlpool duet dryers beeping once but not starting.
This list starts with the most common reasons.
Thermal Safety Switch Continuity
There is a thermal safety switch on the blower chamber that helps to regulate the heat level in the blower. The safety switch has a fuse that blows out in cases of excessive heat. When the fuse blows out, there is a loss of continuity in the unit.
Diagnostic Steps and Possible Solution
The aim is to test the continuity between the two terminals of the thermal safety switch. If there is no continuity, replace the old thermal fuse with a new one. These steps require unscrewing some parts of the Whirlpool Duet Dryer.
It would help if you also had a Multimeter for the test. Hence, it is vital to learn how to use a multimeter. Once you have the necessary tools, you can start the diagnosis. Here are the steps involved:
- Power down the duet dryer and disconnect it from the power source.
- Then remove the top panel screws to show the section of the control panel
- Press down the tabs of the control panel to release the outer cover
- Disconnect the cables that hold the panel in place and set the panel aside
- Next, unscrew the circuit board bracket and remove it.
- Remove the screws holding the lower front panel below the drum and pull the board out.
- Disconnect the door switch and moisture sensor harness.
- Remove the screws that connect the door and remove it
- Next is to remove the screws holding down the bulkhead. Remove it to reveal the drum.
- Decompress the belt at the pulley system by releasing the tensioner to remove the drum. Carrying the drum using the strap.
- Two thermal units connect to the blower housing. Your user guide helps to identify this thermal unit correctly.
- Set the multimeter to continuity testing mode for this test
- Check continuity between the two terminals. It should be closed, meaning there is should voltage reading passing through the system.
- If there is no reading, the circuit is open, and you need to replace the thermal fuse.
- To replace the fuse, disconnect the wires and unscrew the fuse.
- Slide in the new fuse and screw it firmly. Return the wire connecting to the fuse.
- Return the drum and align it on the rear rotor. Reconnect the belt to the motor and the tensioner.
- Reconnect the bulkhead and align it to the drum using the screw.
- Screw the door in and out, and reconnect the door switch harness.
- Reconnect the lower panel using the proper screws.
- Next is to return the control bracket and the control unit. Don’t forget to reconnect the cable to the control board.
- Return the back cover panel and screw it firmly in place.
Power up the appliance to test the new fuse. This step should solve the problem. However, note that the thermal fuse blowing up often depends on the proper functioning of the heat relay on the control board. That brings us to the following possible reason for the problem.
Heat Relay System
The heat Relay on the control board is responsible for switching the heat in the blower chamber. This heat dries off the clothes inside the drum. When functioning correctly, the heat relay at the control board controls heat regulation to avoid overheating the chamber.
If the heat relay has issues, it doesn’t turn off the heat, which blows up the fuse. Hence, replacing the fuse will only be a temporary fix.
Diagnostic Steps and Possible Solution
The control board is the point of interest when dealing with the heat relay issue. Hence there is a need to test for continuity at the heat relay unit on the control board. If there is no continuity, then you apply the proper fix.
- Access the control board using by unscrewing the top cover.
- Check the wire harness that connects the thermal unit to the control board.
- If it is firmly secured, use a multimeter to test for continuity and check if the circuit is closed.
- If the circuit is open, there is little or zero reading across the terminal.
There are multiple options available when fixing this particular issue. Sometimes, an expert handy with a soldering iron can repair the board. However, it is advisable to replace the board to avoid further damage.
Here is a video showing how to replace the control board of your Whirlpool Duet Dryer:
Back Pulley System
The pulley system at the back of the Whirlpool duet dryer plays a vital role when you turn on the machine. The pulley is responsible for the spinning action of the drum during the drying circle. This system’s error will cause the device to beep once but won’t start.
Ideally, the drum begins spinning when you power the Whirlpool duet dryer and press the start button. However, it is not possible when the system is faulty. This reason is not common due to the quality of the components, but it’s worth checking if the thermal unit is working.
Diagnostic and Possible Solution
The aim is to check the pulley system and ensure every component is working. A simple check will reveal any issue with the system. Only then can you apply the appropriate fix to it. The pulley system consists of moving parts that work under strain to move the drum.
Common problems include worn-out parts or damage to the belt. As such, the proper solution is to replace the damaged parts. For these steps, you only need a screwdriver.
Here are the steps involved:
- Depending on the installation type, disconnect the Whirlpool Duet Dryer from the power source or circuit breaker.
- Using a screwdriver, remove the top six screws that hold the top panel to expose the upper side of the drum.
- Next, unscrew the back panel cover to access the rear pulley system.
- Check the pulley system at the bottom right corner of your dryer and inspect the two significant components: the belt and the tensioner.
- Replace the pulley belt if it is loose.
- Replace the tensioner if it has lost its shape or is loose and away from the stem.
- Return the back cover and top cover panel to their place and screw firmly.
- Connect the whirlpool duet dryer to its power source and power on the machine to test the repair.
These are the diagnostic steps and solutions to the back pulley system issue.
When replacing the belt or the tensioner, ensure the belt lines around the pulley correctly. The belt should pass over the wheel tensioner and pass underneath it. The belt then goes over and around the motor before taping off to the back of the drum. Any belt setting contrary to this will render the setup ineffective.
Proper Voltage Supply
A Whirlpool duet dryer voltage requirement is 120V AC. This value is the proper voltage for the engine to run smoothly. Anything different from this can cause the machine to power on, beep once, but refuse to start. This situation is a rare but possible reason for this problem. However, it is worth a try, especially if the above solutions are not resolving the issue.
You can run a diagnostic test to ensure the power cord is working correctly.
Diagnostic and Possible Solution
Diagnosing the voltage supply to the system requires a bit of expertise. However, with proper guidance, it is doable at home. The aim is to check terminals that receive voltage supply from an external source. For these steps, you need a screwdriver and a voltmeter. Things become easier if you know how to use a voltmeter.
Here are the steps involved
- Disconnect the duet dryer from its power source.
- Unscrew the bolts that cover the voltage supply panel to reveal the three terminals.
- Set the voltmeter to volt AC and use it to test the terminals in the following sequence:
- Test the left terminal and the center terminal. The Volt should be 120 AC
- Test the center terminal and the right terminal. The Volt should be 120 AC
- Test the two outside terminals. The Volt should be 240 AC
- Return the back cover and screw it in place.
This figure shows that there is a proper voltage supply to the system. Any deviation from these figures means you check the different units of the terminal. The power cord is the best place to start.
Warranty and Support
Whirlpool too offers a wide range of support across its various products. If you are not satisfied with the above fixes, please feel free to contact Whirlpool customer care.
For more troubleshooting steps, please check their product help page
You can reach out to Whirlpool customer support at:
US: 1-866-698-2538
Canada: 1-800-807-6777
Hour of Operation:
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST
By Chat:
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST
Before calling, make sure you keep your model’s serial number handy. If you need help regarding getting your model and serial number, here is a link to check out.
Read: Pressure Washer Only Runs On Choke
Conclusion
The Whirlpool duet dryer is an excellent machine with a simple mechanism of heat and steam. Most times, heat issues are reasons why this dryer won’t start. However, straightforward solutions are available to you:
- Check for continuity and replace the thermal fuse.
- Fix the heat relay or replace the control board.
- Replace the different components of the pulley system.
- Check and repair the power cord.
Applying the proper fix can help solve the issue without any delay. Your duet dryer is good as new. Laundry time can be fun when all the machines are working efficiently.