How to Troubleshoot and Repair a Dryer That Runs With the Door Open

If your dryer is running with the door open, you should immediately switch it off and disconnect it from its power source. This is a common problem that is typically either caused by a faulty door switch or a dirty door latch. Before operation, the door switch sends signals to the rest of the dryer that the door is locked and it is safe to start running. If this part is faulty, it cannot send these signals. It is also possible that the door latch is simply dirty and cannot lock the door correctly.

Having a dryer running with its door open is a safety hazard as lint and dust can float into the air and become a potential fire risk. It also leaves your dryer at risk of additional damage as the drum will likely spin unevenly while the door is open. It’s important for you to look at these two parts as soon as you can to prevent any potential harm to you and your dryer.

The good news is that this is also an issue that is very simple to troubleshoot. This repair guide will take you through the steps to find and inspect the door latch as well as repair or replace the door switch if necessary. You’ll find the latest 3D images to take you inside your dryer and video tutorials to work along to. Whether you’re an experienced DIY enthusiast or a beginner, this guide will provide you with everything you need to get your dryer back to full working condition.

How to Troubleshoot a Dryer That Runs With the Door Open

Our in-house expert repair technician, Chris, demonstrates how a faulty door switch can cause a dryer to run even when its door is wide open:

Using This Page, You Will be Able to Troubleshoot the Following Symptoms

1. Dryer running with door open

Inspect This Common Issue First

If your dryer does not stop running when the door is open, be sure to check this common latch issue before you move on to the next section.

FIX TIP

Remember, when troubleshooting the dryer symptom, start by unplugging it from the electrical outlet or turning off the breaker.

Is Your Latch Dirty?

The door latch is a small plastic or metal piece that is located on the front panel of your dryer. It engages with the Switch on the door and keeps the door firmly closed. If the latch mechanism appears to be sticking, then it is likely the reason your dryer doesn’t shut off even when the door is open. There may be some dirt or debris causing the problem and cleaning it off may be all you need to do. Simply open the dryer door and inspect the door latch for signs of soap, dirt, or debris. If any are present, wipe the latch clean and give your dryer a test run.

As mentioned above, if your dryer continues running with the door open and you have verified that the latch is not dirty, you will need to inspect the door switch. The door switch is designed to shut off the dryer when the door is opened, but if it is damaged or experiencing electrical issues, the dryer may continue to run even when the door is open.

How to Fix a Door Switch for a Dryer With a Door That Pops Open

If the door switch is faulty, your dryer may not be able to detect that the door has been opened and therefore will not stop running. If your dryer will not stop running while the door is open, do not attempt to place your hand inside the dryer as this is dangerous. Unplug the dryer before you attempt any repairs or testing.

What is the Door Switch?

The door switch is responsible for preventing the dryer from running while the door is open. It is an on/off safety mechanism that sends a signal to the console that it is either safe to start the dryer or that it should stop the cycle because the door is open.

Where is the Door Switch Located?

The door switch is located near the door opening on the inner side of the front panel.

General Location of the Door Switch

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Door Switch

1. To avoid electrical hazards, begin by unplugging the machine for your safety.
2. Remove the lint filter and any screws holding the lint housing to the dryer.
3. Remove the main top of the dryer and lean it against the wall or set it aside.
4. Locate the wire harness to the door switch and disconnect it from the switch. Check to see whether the door switch has moved out of place. If so, this may be the cause of your issues. Simply pop it back in and turn on the dryer.
5. If it is in place, and there is no visible damage, then the switch may have failed electrically, and you will need to test it.

How to Test a Door Switch

1. Looking at the wiring diagram for your dryer model to see which terminals to test.
2. Take your multimeter and touch a probe to each terminal on the switch.
3. Check to see that the reading matches what is in your manual.
4. If the reading is not within range or there is no reading, then the part has failed and will need to be replaced.

How to Install a New Door Switch

1. Check out “How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Door Switch in a Dryer” for instructions on how to access the door switch.
2. With the wire harness disconnected, open the dryer door at the front of the machine to remove the screws/tabs holding the switch itself in place.
3. Pull the old door switch out and discard it.
4. Take your new door switch with the tab facing the front and place it in position before securing it.
5. Reconnect the wire harness to the new switch.
6. Place the main top back, secure the lint housing, and reinsert the lint screen.
7. Plug in your machine and your repair is complete!