Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CAMT Practice Questions and Study Guide

The door switch is a critical safety component in a clothes dryer. Its primary function is to ensure that the dryer operates only when the door is closed. If the door switch is defective, it cannot register that the door is closed, which will cause the dryer to remain inoperable. This safety mechanism protects users from potential accidents, such as the dryer starting while open, which could be dangerous.

In contrast, while the thermostat regulates temperature and a defective one could prevent the dryer from reaching the proper heat level, it wouldn’t necessarily stop the dryer from turning on. The drive belt is essential for the drum's rotation; if it's broken, the dryer might still turn on, but the drum wouldn't spin. Lastly, if the power cord is faulty, the dryer wouldn't receive electricity, preventing operation. However, the door switch directly prevents the initiation of the dryer cycle, underscoring its key role in the equipment's functionality.