First check the door switch for continuity. Take out the lint filter and the two screws under the lid. You can now insert a screw driver in the gap between the front and the top near the edges and pop up the top. This will give you access to the door switch.

If it checks out, then check the push to start switch.

Ok, what you need to do is to purchase a test meter, which will test current for AC voltage, DC voltage, Amps and Ohms, which is resistance. You can buy one for as little as $4 at the local Chinese Import tool discount place, or a good one for about $15 (on sale) to $25.00 at a good hardware outlet or building supplies store.

When testing for continuity, which is basically to determine that there is no break in the circuit you use the Ohms setting, which tests how much resistance there is in the wire. On testing the switches it does not matter what reading you get, as long as you get a reading the line is good.

When you buy your meter there will detailed instructions with it, and there is Sticky at the top of this page that goes into detail on how to use a meter. You will be checking continuity when the switch is closed. This means pushing in the door switch to check it and pushing in the push to start switch when checking it. You should also check to make sure you have the right power coming into the dryer and that the thermal fuse is not open, but since it was working until you opened the door these are less likely.

Of course, the best plan is to have a friend who has a meter and will come over and test things for you. If you have to buy a meter, don't worry, its a good tool to know how to use and to have around the house. It will ultimately save you far more than its cost.

Good luck.

wow Thanks for your post my dryer went out yesterday we tried all your ideas and we finally figured it out and got it fixed without paying someone to come do it. My husband and I appreciate your help.

What was your fix. My roper dryer just stopped starting. Sounds like the same problem you have. Did you have to replace the switch or was it another problem