Laundry Steam Closet Won’t Start a Cycle? Try These Easy Tips

There’s nothing more frustrating than a laundry steam closet that won’t start its cycle. Whether it’s a washer with a steam function or a combination washer-dryer unit, modern laundry appliances are packed with technology that can sometimes fail. If your laundry steam closet isn’t starting its cycle, you’re likely dealing with an issue that can be resolved with some basic troubleshooting and a few tools. Whether you’re experiencing a problem with the power, the steam function, or the cycle itself, we’ve got you covered.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Common Causes of a Laundry Steam Closet Not Starting

Before diving into repairs, it’s essential to understand the most common issues that could be preventing your laundry steam closet from starting a cycle. Understanding the potential causes will help you pinpoint the problem and fix it more efficiently.

Power Supply Issues

A simple but often overlooked cause of a laundry steam closet failing to start a cycle is a power supply issue. This could range from a power outage to a blown fuse or faulty electrical outlet.

Faulty Door Latch or Door Switch

For safety reasons, most laundry machines have a door latch or door switch that must be activated for the cycle to start. If the latch is broken or the switch isn’t working, the machine won’t begin its cycle.

Water Supply Problems

Since steam cycles rely on water to generate steam, any problem with the water supply could prevent the cycle from starting. Issues like a closed water valve, a clogged hose, or a malfunctioning water inlet valve are common culprits.

Malfunctioning Control Board

The control board of your laundry steam closet is responsible for managing the various functions and cycles of the machine. If it’s malfunctioning, the machine may not start its cycle.

Steam Function Not Engaging

The steam feature of your machine relies on a series of components working together, including a water reservoir, a steam generator, and sensors. If any of these parts are malfunctioning, the steam cycle may fail to start.

Timer or Cycle Selector Issue

If your laundry machine has a cycle selector knob or digital timer, a problem with either of these components could prevent the machine from starting the desired cycle.

Troubleshooting and Fixing the Problem

Now that you have an idea of the common causes of the issue, let’s take a closer look at how you can troubleshoot and fix a laundry steam closet that won’t start its cycle. Depending on the problem, you may need to replace certain parts or simply adjust something that has come loose.

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

Before assuming there’s a bigger issue, the first step is to confirm that the laundry steam closet is receiving power.

• Verify the power source: Ensure the appliance is plugged in and the outlet is working. Try plugging another appliance or device into the same outlet to check for power.
• Check the circuit breaker: Sometimes, the circuit breaker for the laundry room may trip, cutting off power to your machine. If the breaker has tripped, simply flip it back to the “on” position.
• Inspect the power cord: If the power cord is damaged, the machine won’t receive electricity. Inspect the cord for any visible signs of wear and tear. If necessary, replace the cord with one that matches your appliance’s specifications.

Once you confirm that power is reaching the appliance, you can move on to the next troubleshooting steps.

Step 2: Inspect the Door Latch or Switch

If the door latch or switch is malfunctioning, the machine won’t start its cycle. This is a common safety feature in laundry machines to prevent them from running while the door is open.

• Check the door latch: Open and close the door a few times to ensure the latch is engaging properly. If the latch is loose or stuck, the door may not be closing securely, preventing the machine from starting.
• Test the door switch: If the latch seems fine, test the door switch, which is usually located on the door frame. You can do this by pressing the switch manually and checking if the machine starts. If the switch doesn’t engage when pressed, it may need to be replaced.

Step 3: Check the Water Supply

If your laundry steam closet has a steam function, it requires a water supply to generate steam. Without water, the steam cycle won’t engage.

• Check the water inlet valve: Start by making sure the water valves to the appliance are fully open. Sometimes, users accidentally close the valves or forget to turn them on.
• Inspect the hoses: Ensure that the hoses connected to the machine are not kinked or clogged. If the hoses are clogged, water won’t flow properly into the appliance, preventing the steam function from working.
• Test the water pressure: If you have low water pressure in your home, this can also affect the machine’s ability to function. You can test the water pressure by turning on a faucet nearby and checking the flow. If it’s weak, there may be an issue with your water supply, and you may need to address the pressure problem.

Step 4: Inspect the Control Board

The control board is the brain of your laundry steam closet, and a malfunctioning control board can prevent the machine from starting its cycle. If the control board is damaged or malfunctioning, the machine might fail to respond when you select a cycle.

• Reset the machine: Many appliances have a reset feature, which can often resolve minor control board issues. Check the user manual to see if your model has a reset option, and follow the instructions to reset the control board.
• Check for visible damage: Open up the back or bottom panel of the machine (following the manufacturer’s instructions) and inspect the control board for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt areas, broken components, or loose wiring.
• Test the control board: If you have access to a multimeter, you can test the control board for continuity and proper voltage. If you suspect the control board is faulty, replacing it may be necessary.

Step 5: Examine the Steam Function Components

Since your machine has a steam feature, it’s crucial to check the components related to the steam generation.

• Check the water reservoir: Ensure the water reservoir is filled. If the reservoir is empty or nearly empty, the steam cycle won’t work. Refill the reservoir according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Inspect the steam generator: If the water reservoir is full, check the steam generator for any blockages or issues. Some steam generators can accumulate mineral deposits over time, especially if you have hard water in your area. If necessary, clean the steam generator by following the manufacturer’s instructions for descaling.
• Test the steam valve: If your machine has a separate steam valve, inspect it for clogs or damage. The valve controls the release of steam and can prevent the cycle from starting if it’s malfunctioning.

Step 6: Check the Timer or Cycle Selector

If everything seems in order but the machine still won’t start, the timer or cycle selector might be faulty. This is especially true if your laundry steam closet has a mechanical timer or a digital display.

• Test the timer: If the appliance has a mechanical timer, rotate the timer knob and see if it clicks or engages. If the knob is stuck or doesn’t rotate properly, it could be an indication that the timer mechanism is broken.
• Check the cycle selector: For digital machines, check the cycle selector for any malfunctions or error messages. If there’s a problem with the cycle selector, the machine might fail to start a cycle altogether. Resetting the cycle selector or selecting a different cycle may help diagnose the issue.

Step 7: Reset the Machine

Sometimes, simply resetting the appliance can fix the issue. Unplug the machine for 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in. This can help reset the electronics and allow the machine to start the cycle.

Where To Find Us 

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

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