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Universal Dryer steam function not working

If your dryer steam function is not working, the most likely culprit is a bad control board or main control board that is not sending power to the steam components. Inspect the board for burned or shorted components, since these boards are difficult to bench test and often need replacement. If the control board appears fine but the steam generator is getting power and still not producing steam, the steam generator itself is the next likely failure. A missing water supply hose or a closed or kinked water line is a common, easy-to-fix cause, and a clogged or damaged nozzle at the rear interior can block steam from entering the drum. Less commonly, the water inlet valve may have failed; use a multimeter to test the valve for continuity if the nozzle shows no mist when energized. If you need parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to see the exact replacement control board, steam generator, nozzle, or water inlet valve that fits your dryer, and follow the repair steps for a safe, confident fix.

01 - Universal 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 - Universal 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.
Shop all Universal Dryer Main Control Board Parts
Common

03 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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

My dryer steam not working, what should I check first?
How do I test the dryer water inlet valve for the steam cycle?
No mist from the nozzle — can I clean or replace the dryer nozzle?
How can I tell if the control board or steam generator is bad?
How do I enter my model number or part number to find the correct replacement part on RepairClinic.com?

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