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HomeRepair HelpKitchenAid Dryer RepairKitchenAid Dryer steam function not working Repair

KitchenAid Dryer steam function not working

If your dryer steam function is not working, start with the most likely electrical culprit: a faulty control board or main control board that is not sending power to the water inlet valve or steam generator. Next most likely is a failed steam generator when power does reach the generator but no mist forms. After that check the basics: make sure the water supply hose is connected at the Y connector and the home shutoff is open. Inspect the steam nozzle inside the drum for damage or clogs that can block mist. Finally, if the nozzle looks clear and the valve is being energized but no water flows, the water inlet valve may have failed; you can test the valve for continuity with a multimeter. These checks cover the common causes for dryer steam not working and help you decide whether to replace a control board, steam generator, nozzle, or inlet valve. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to see the exact replacement part that fits your dryer.

01 - KitchenAid Dryer Control Board

If no power is getting to either the dryer's water inlet valve during the steam cycle or the steam generator, then it's likely the dryer's control board is defective and the cause of the steam function problem. The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component to help determine if the part should be replaced.
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Common

02 - KitchenAid Dryer Main Control Board

If no power is getting to either the dryer's water inlet valve during the steam cycle or the steam generator, then it's likely the dryer's main control board is defective and the cause of the steam function problem. The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component to help determine if the part should be replaced.
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Common

03 - KitchenAid Dryer Steam Generator

If no power is getting to the dryer's water inlet valve during the steam cycle, but power is reaching the steam generator, then it's likely the steam generator is defective and will need to be replaced.
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Common

04 - Water supply not connected.

The water supply hose needs to be connected from the home's water supply to the water inlet valve on the dryer. The water line is usually connected to a “Y” connector and shares the same cold-water supply as the washer. Refer to the owner's manual for water hookup instructions.
Common

05 - KitchenAid Dryer Nozzle

The nozzle, normally located at the rear interior of the dryer, may be damaged or clogged with debris and unable to allow the steam to enter the drum area. Inspect the nozzle or any damage or obstruction and replace if necessary.
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Less Common

06 - KitchenAid Dryer Water Inlet Valve

The dryer's water inlet valve provides the water necessary for the steam function to work. If there is no mist coming from the nozzle when the valve is energized, it's likely the inlet valve is defective. You can use a multimeter to test the valve for electrical continuity. If the valve tests negative for continuity, you'll know the part has failed and will need to be replaced.
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Less Common

07 - Water Supply Valves are Closed

The water supply valve needs to be turned on to supply water to the dryer. The water line is usually connected to a “Y” connector and shares the same cold-water supply as the washer. Refer to the owner's manual for water hookup instructions.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my dryer steam function not working?
How can I tell if the dryer control board or main control board is bad?
How do I test the water inlet valve and steam generator?
My dryer has water hooked up but no steam—could the nozzle be the problem?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?