Kenmore KWD35 Dryer Not Starting After Pause

Understanding Why a Kenmore KWD35 Dryer Won’t Start After a Pause

A Kenmore KWD35 dryer that refuses to start after a brief pause can feel like a frustrating mystery. The unit may run normally during the first cycle, then stop partway through, and when you try to restart it, nothing happens. Because a dryer’s operation involves several safety mechanisms, a failure to start can stem from a variety of causes. This guide walks you through the most common reasons, step‑by‑step diagnostics, and repair procedures. By the end, you should be able to determine whether a simple fix will restore your dryer or if professional help is required.

1. Why the Dryer Stops and Won’t Restart

Before you dive into troubleshooting, it helps to understand the dryer’s safety design. Modern dryers incorporate a pause‑and‑resume feature that protects the appliance when the door is opened or the cycle is interrupted. When the pause button is pressed or the door latch disengages, the dryer’s motor stops, the heating element is de‑energized, and the control board waits for a clear signal that it is safe to resume. If any component involved in that safety check fails or the signal is not cleared, the dryer will not start again.

Common causes of a post‑pause failure include:

• Broken thermal fuse – a safety device that cuts power when the dryer overheats.
• Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor – prevents the heater from turning on if the temperature seems off.
• Malfunctioning door latch or switch – the dryer thinks the door is still open.
• Damaged or loose start switch – the signal that tells the control board to begin the cycle is missing.
• Stuck or defective motor or motor capacitor – the motor can’t spin when the cycle restarts.
• Wiring or connector issues – loose or corroded connections on the control board or motor circuit.
• Control board failure – the electronic brain that runs the dryer’s logic.
• Faulty timer or electronic delay timer – if the internal timer is stuck, the cycle will never start again.

2. Safety First: Power Off and Unplug

No matter how small the issue seems, always begin by turning off the dryer’s circuit breaker or unplugging the unit from the outlet. This step protects you from electrical shock and prevents the dryer from doing anything unintended while you work on it.

3. Inspect the Power Source

Even though a Kenmore KWD35 is usually hardwired to a dedicated dryer outlet, confirm that the power supply is functioning:

1. Check the circuit breaker – ensure the breaker that controls the dryer’s outlet is on and has not tripped.
2. Verify the outlet voltage – use a multimeter to confirm a 240‑volt supply on the dryer’s outlet (or 120 volts if the unit is designed for that).
3. Look for damaged cords or plugs – inspect the dryer’s power cord for any visible wear, kinks, or burn marks.

If the power source is compromised, replace the damaged cord or outlet, or call an electrician for help.

4. Verify the Door Latch and Switch

The door latch is a key safety element. If the dryer thinks the door is open, it will not start.

• Open the door and look for any debris, lint, or obstruction that could be preventing the latch from engaging fully.
• Close the door firmly and listen for the click of the latch engaging. If the click is absent or soft, the latch or its switch may be damaged.
• Check the door switch – the small metal or plastic component that contacts the latch when the door is closed. A bent or broken switch can cause the dryer to believe the door remains open.

If you find the latch or switch defective, replace it with a Kenmore part matching the KWD35 model. Many appliance stores carry compatible latch kits.

5. Check the Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device that opens the circuit when the dryer overheats. It is usually located in the blower housing or near the heating element. A blown fuse will not allow the dryer to start again.

1. Locate the thermal fuse – open the dryer’s rear panel and look for a small cylindrical or rectangular component. It often has a visible white or red label.
2. Remove the fuse – carefully pull it out using needle‑point pliers. Do not use excessive force; the fuse is delicate.
3. Test the fuse – use a multimeter set to the continuity mode. Place the probes on each terminal of the fuse. A functioning fuse will show a complete circuit (continuity). If the meter clicks or shows a high resistance, the fuse is blown.
4. Replace the fuse – purchase a replacement fuse with the same rating (usually 120/240‑V, 15‑A). Install it in the same orientation as the original.

After replacing the fuse, power the dryer back on and attempt a restart. If the dryer still refuses to start, move on to the next component.

6. Inspect the Thermostat and Temperature Sensor

Some dryers use a thermostat or a temperature sensor (thermistor) to regulate the heating element. If this sensor incorrectly signals a high temperature, the dryer will not heat and will prevent the cycle from restarting.

1. Locate the thermostat – it is typically found near the heating element, attached to the heat exchanger.
2. Remove the thermostat – note the position and orientation before detaching it.
3. Test for continuity – set your multimeter to continuity or ohms. A healthy thermostat should show a closed circuit at room temperature. If it reads open, replace it.
4. Check the temperature sensor – some models have a thermistor placed in the drum or on the heating element. Test its resistance at room temperature. Use the manufacturer’s resistance table to verify accuracy.

Replace any faulty thermostat or sensor and reinstall. A properly functioning thermostat allows the dryer to heat and start the cycle again.

7. Examine the Motor and Capacitor

A stalled or failed motor can also cause a dryer not to start. The motor may have been running during the first part of the cycle but failed during the pause.

1. Access the motor – usually behind the rear panel. You may need to remove a few screws.
2. Visual inspection – look for signs of wear, burn marks, or a strong odor. A burnt motor will need replacement.
3. Test the motor – disconnect the motor’s power leads and use a multimeter to check for continuity across the windings. If continuity is lost, the motor is defective.
4. Check the capacitor – many Kenmore dryers use a start capacitor to give the motor a torque boost. Remove the capacitor and test it using a capacitance meter or continuity test. A failed capacitor can be replaced.

If either the motor or capacitor is defective, replace them with a Kenmore-approved part. Reinstall and see if the dryer can start.

8. Inspect Wiring and Connectors

Loose, corroded, or damaged wiring can cause intermittent failures.

1. Open the rear panel – check all power connections to the motor, thermostat, and control board.
2. Look for signs of damage – frayed insulation, burn marks, or loose pins.
3. Secure all connectors – tighten any loose terminals with a screwdriver.
4. Replace damaged wiring – if any wires are severed or severely damaged, replace them with a matching gauge wire.

Good electrical connections are essential for reliable operation. A single loose wire can prevent the dryer from starting after a pause.

9. Test the Control Board

The control board orchestrates the dryer’s cycle. It may become unresponsive due to internal component failure.

1. Remove the control board – note the orientation and any ribbon cables attached.
2. Visual inspection – look for burnt components, swollen electrolytic capacitors, or broken traces.
3. Test for continuity – use a multimeter to check the board’s input and output pins as per the service manual.
4. Reset the board – disconnect the board from power for at least 30 seconds, then reconnect. Some boards have a reset button; press it if available.

If the board shows no obvious damage but still does not function, it may need professional diagnostics or replacement. A Kenmore-approved control board can usually be ordered through the manufacturer or a reputable appliance parts supplier.

10. Verify the Start Switch and Timer

The start switch, often a small toggle on the front panel, sends the initial signal to the control board to begin a cycle. A stuck or damaged start switch can block the start sequence.

• Press the start button – ensure it moves freely and returns to its original position.
• Use a multimeter – set it to continuity mode and check the switch’s contacts. If the switch shows no continuity when pressed, replace it.
• Check the timer – if the dryer uses an electronic delay timer (also known as a "delayed start" feature), make sure it is not stuck. Some models have a small access panel near the timer for cleaning lint.

After verifying or replacing the switch and timer, try starting the dryer again.

11. How to Reset the Dryer After a Pause

Sometimes the simplest fix is to reset the dryer’s internal circuitry. Follow these steps:

1. Unplug the dryer – leave it unplugged for at least five minutes.
2. Plug it back in – reconnect to the outlet.
3. Press the pause button twice – this can clear any internal pause status.
4. Attempt to start a new cycle – select a dry setting and press the start button.

If the dryer still does not start, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.

12. Checking the Door Switch Assembly

The door switch is often the culprit for a dryer that will not start after a pause. While the latch engages the physical barrier, the door switch is a separate electrical component that signals the dryer’s control board that the door is closed.

• Locate the door switch – it is typically a small rectangular metal plate behind the door frame.
• Remove the switch – disconnect it from the frame and note its orientation.
• Test the switch – using a multimeter set to continuity, press the door switch lever. A good switch will show continuity when depressed and break when released.
• Replace if needed – obtain a matching door switch from a Kenmore parts supplier and reinstall.

A faulty door switch will keep the dryer from starting because the control board believes the door is open.

13. Inspecting the Control Panel and Display

On some Kenmore models, the control panel and digital display can become unresponsive due to a software glitch or internal fault.

• Check the display – does it show the cycle progress? If the display is blank or flickering, the control board may be at fault.
• Look for error codes – some models flash a two‑digit error code after a fault. Reference the manual to decode it.
• Reset the panel – unplug the dryer, wait five minutes, then plug it back in.

If resetting does not resolve the issue, the control board may need to be replaced.

14. Common Error Codes on Kenmore KWD35

If your dryer shows an error code after attempting to start, here are a few possibilities:

Refer to your user manual for the exact code meanings. Many of these errors point back to the diagnostics steps covered above.

15. When to Call a Professional

If you have completed all of the steps above and the dryer still does not start, or if you encounter any of the following:

• A damaged control board or motor that requires specialized tools to repair.
• Persistent electrical problems that do not resolve with simple reconnections.
• Unknown error codes that you cannot decode with the manual.
• Any signs of water damage or severe wear.

At this point, it is safer and more efficient to contact a licensed appliance repair technician. A professional can diagnose hidden issues, work with the dryer’s internal components safely, and ensure the unit is operating within safety guidelines.

16. Preventing Future Pauses and Failures

Once your dryer is back in working order, consider these preventive measures:

• Clean the lint filter after each load – a clogged filter raises the temperature and can blow the thermal fuse.
• Inspect the vent hose annually – ensure it is free from lint buildup that can cause overheating.
• Check the door latch regularly – keep it free from debris and ensure it engages smoothly.
• Maintain the motor and capacitor – periodic inspection of the motor windings can catch early signs of wear.

Regular maintenance will reduce the likelihood of a post‑pause failure and extend the life of your Kenmore KWD35.

17. Final Thoughts

A Kenmore KWD35 dryer that refuses to start after a pause can be traced to a few common issues: a blown thermal fuse, a defective door switch, a faulty thermostat, or an internal control board failure. By following a systematic approach—checking power, inspecting safety components, testing electrical continuity, and resetting the system—you can often restore the dryer’s function without professional help.

If you encounter persistent problems or encounter unfamiliar error codes, reach out to a licensed appliance technician. A well‑maintained dryer will save you time, energy, and the frustration of repeated troubleshooting.

With careful inspection and the right replacements, your dryer can return to reliable, efficient operation, and you can keep your laundry routine running smoothly.