My Dyson Hair Dryer Stopped Working? (7 Quick Solutions!)

Many people ask the question, why has my Dyson hair dryer stopped working, as you can’t know for certain the exact underlying issue.

If this is the problem you are faced with, don’t worry; this guide will help you out.

To fix your Dyson hair dryer not working, start by ensuring the filter and air vents are unobstructed. Next, reset your Dyson ALCI plug and check the power supply.

Now that you have the basic steps to fix a non-working Dyson hair dryer let’s first briefly go through the causes of this exact issue.

Why Did My Dyson Hair Dryer Stop Working?

If you notice that your Dyson hair dryer shuts down quickly after using it for a few seconds, or if it doesn’t start at all, chances are there is an issue with overheating or power delivery.

In rare cases, there could be a motor malfunction or water-related damage.

Here are some of the common reasons why Dyson hair dryers stop working:

Now that you have a brief overview of the top causes of Dyson hair dryers not working or powering on let’s get on with the troubleshooting solutions.

How to Fix My Dyson Hair Dryer Stopped Working

Tip: Store your Dyson hair dryer in a dust-free and dry environment when you aren't using it.

Solution #1: Check and Clean Your Dyson Filter

If you are wondering why did my Dyson hair dryer just stopped working, there is a high likelihood it’s because its filter is congested.

A congested Dyson air filter can lead to overheating, which might cause sudden shut-offs for your device.

Here is how to properly clean and check your Dyson filter for issues:

1. Turn off your Dyson device – and be sure it’s thoroughly dried before proceeding.
2. Detach the filter from the bottom of the handle by rotating it and then sliding it off.
3. Use the Dyson filter cleaning brush to remove any hair or other debris inside your filter.
4. Wipe the dirt and lint off the mesh or inner filter with a dry cloth.
5. Inspect the filter for any clogs or debris and repeat steps 3 and 4 if needed.
6. Rinse the filter with soapy water, then dry it down.
7. Reattach the filter and turn on your Dyson to test if the airflow has improved​​.

When installing the filter back, you need to get it through the plug first and ensure it’s fully snapped or locked in position. 

Note: Ensure that the room where you use your Dyson is not overly humid or hot, as it might cause overheating.

Solution #2: Reset your Dyson ALCI Plug

Dyson hair dryers come with a special ALCI plug as a built-in safety feature that can sometimes get engaged and prevent your Dyson from powering on.

To ensure this doesn’t occur, you have to manually reset the ALCI plug.

1. Turn off and unplug your Dyson hair dryer.
2. Locate the ALCI plug, which usually has a red button or toggle switch.
3. Press and hold the ‘Reset’ button on your Dyson.
4. Check for any issues with the plug socket – if it can’t freely move, don’t try to force it.
5. Replug your hair dryer and check to test that the functionality is now restored.

Be mindful that if the Dyson dryer is used in a country with compatible voltage – if the device was bought in the US, it works with 120V only.

Note: You can try using the ‘Test’ button to see if your Dyson can power on properly.

Solution #3: Prevent Overheating Shutdowns

Perhaps the most common cause of Dyson hair dryers shutting down is due to overheating.

As such devices use high amounts of electricity to generate heat, they can’t run for prolonged periods, especially at higher intensities.

Here are some steps to prevent your Dyson from powering down due to overheating:

1. Disconnect your Dyson hair dryer from the power source.
2. Allow the hair dryer to cool for 30-60 minutes.
3. Ensure the dryer is placed in a safe location while cooling.
4. Do not touch or hold the hair dryer during this period.
5. After cooling, inspect the dryer for any signs of damage or warping around its shell. 
6. Before powering it on to test if it’s working, remove any attachments currently installed.

Afterwards, reconnect the hair dryer to the power source and test your dryer to check if it is working correctly​​.

Note: Don't attempt to take down your Dyson for manual repair, as doing so might void its warranty.

Solution #4: Ensure Your Power Supply is Working

Sometimes, if your Dyson device is plugged into a faulty power outlet or one that has insufficient power, your device might abruptly power off.

To prevent unintended shutdowns, you have to verify that your power source is sufficient and constant.

1. Check the power outlet for functionality if you suspect a faulty outlet.
2. Alternatively, you can use a multimeter to check for voltage faults.
3. Inspect the Dyson power cord for damage or fraying.
4. If you notice loose ends, don’t attempt to use the device before the cable is replaced.
5. Test the outlet with another device to rule out an issue with the outlet. 
6. Ensure the power cord is securely connected to the dryer.
7. Reconnect the hair dryer to the power source.
8. Test the hair dryer’s functionality​​.

It’s recommended that you don’t use Dyson hair dryers on a power strip with other active electronics, as they might get insufficient power.

Note: If your Dyson was submerged in water or splashed, let it dry for 24 hours before trying to use it again.

Solution #5: Clean Your Dyson Air Vents

The air vents on your Dyson provide cool air for the device to heat up.

If these vents are somehow obstructed, it can cause issues such as overheating or outright constant shutdowns.

Here are the steps to clean your Dyson air vents:

1. Unplug the hair dryer and allow it to cool.
2. Locate and remove the air filter to access your Dyson air vents.
3. Clean the vents and ensure nothing is lodged inside them, like hair or other objects.
4. Remove any dust or debris from the vents with a soft brush.
5. After cleaning your Dyson, test the hair dryer after reassembling it​​.

Note that sometimes, the air vents don’t require the filter to be removed and are located around the handle.

Tip: Check that your panel electrical fuse is not blown or activated by the hair dryer.

Solution #6: Perform a Software Reset

If you have attempted the fixes above, yet your Dyson still won’t properly work, you can attempt to power cycle it to remove any built-up static charge.

Such electricity can affect your Dyson circuit board, preventing proper operation.

Here is how to perform a basic power cycling for your Dyson hair dryer:

1. Unplug the hair dryer from the power source.
2. Locate and press the reset button on the hair dryer.
3. Hold the reset button for approximately 10 seconds.
4. Replug the Dyson hair dryer.
5. Test its functionality.
6. Repeat the steps above if necessary to resolve minor glitches.

Note: Check the interior of the hair dryer for issues by removing the handle - you can use pressurized air to clean it.

Solution #7: Clean the Power Switch

Sometimes, your Dyson will power off simply because the power switch is not fully acting when you press it down.

This can be caused by dust or other debris and is a lesser-known fix for Dyson devices.

Here is how to properly clean your Dyson power switch to prevent issues: 

1. Unplug your hair dryer device.
2. Use a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol to clean the power switch.
3. Move the switch back and forth while cleaning.
4. Ensure the switch is free of debris and dirt.
5. Dry the switch area thoroughly.
6. Replug your Dyson device and test the switch’s functionality​​.
7. Contact Dyson support if the issue persists​​.

Note: Clean your filter monthly or when the three white LEDs flash continuously on your Dyson.

Quick Recap

To fix my Dyson hair dryer stopped working, start by resetting the ALCI switch and cleaning the filters fully.

Next, check the power outlet or socket for potential issues and the air vents.