[trackerxx]

My dryer won't start turning. The starter switch is fine (I tested it with a multimeter). The starter makes a buzzing sound but the machine will not start.

This dryer is old and it may be time to replace it. I opened the door and tested the door-close switch. The start button won't work with the door open but will work with the door closed.

Do I need to test the door switch?

Any ideas will help. Thanks.

[denman]

Sounds like your door switch is OK

Where is the buzzing coming from? Is it the end of cycle buzzer or the motor trying to start?

Hold the door switch closed, have someone push the start switch, reach in and turn the drum manually. Watch your knuckles in case it starts up.
Does it run?
If it runs could be the motor itself or the centrifugal switches on the motor.

A Model Number would help.
Here is a guide where it might be
Dryer Model Number Locator - Find the Right Part for Your Dryer with PartSelect

[trackerxx]

Thanks! The buzzer sounds like the end of cycle buzzer when I press the start button. I had a friend push the start button and press the door switch while I turned the drum and nothing happened.

When I get home I will get the model number. (I'm typing this from work).

I appreciate your help.

Also, I have been checking out new dryers. Some have this moisture sensing feature and others just have a heat sensor. Being a guy I just usually used timed drying. Can you tell me the benefits/ drawbacks? Is the moisture sensing feature worth paying extra for?

Again, thanks.

[denman]

I am not a professional appliance repairman so this is only a personal opinion

I steer away from fancy
The more stuff it has the more stuff that breaks
I would not buy a unit with a control board
Just look at the number of people repairing these units that are only a couple years old. Those with mechanical timers also have problems but the units are 10 years plus.
I would also make sure the unit has 2 rollers supporting the back of the tub. The center mount/support type are crap.

I never buy bottom end but never even consider the fancy top end units with all the bells & whistles. Push to get a parts breakdown and a wiring diagram with the machine.

[kayakcrzy]

Het TrackerXX, in the back of the dryer, if you take the back off, you will see a white part, called a thermal fuse. It is an inch and a half long, and a half inch wide, get your ohm meter, and pull the wires off the thermal fuse, and check it. You will most likely will get no reading. If you like, you can put those two wires together, and put a little tape on them, then plug the dryer in, and turn it on,and you will see that it will run. If you also want to know the best product for your family, I can be reached at my web site at ApplianceEducator.com Tom