7 Reasons Your Blender Won’t Turn On (And How to Fix It)

We’ve all been there. You’re craving a smoothie, you’ve gathered all your fresh fruits, and you’ve even prepped the perfect blend of ingredients. You’re excited, you hit the power button, and… nothing. Your blender won’t turn on. It’s frustrating, right?

That’s the moment when you wonder if your blender has just given up on life or if there’s something you’re missing. The truth is, there could be many reasons why your blender isn’t turning on, and many of them are actually fixable!

Before you start thinking the worst and imagining that your blender’s life has come to an abrupt end, take a deep breath. There’s a good chance you can troubleshoot the issue, fix it, and be back to blending in no time. In this post, we’ll explore the most common reasons your blender won’t turn on and how to solve them.

Blender Won't Turn On

1. Power Issues: Is It Plugged In?

It sounds simple, but trust me – one of the most common reasons a blender won’t turn on is because it’s not properly plugged in. It’s one of those things that seems too obvious to even consider, but it happens. Maybe the cord came loose or wasn’t plugged in fully. It’s a small mistake, but it’s worth checking before you go down the more complicated troubleshooting route.

What to Check:

  • Check the Outlet: First, make sure the outlet you’re using is working. You can test it by plugging in another device, like a phone charger or lamp, to confirm that power is flowing. If the outlet doesn’t work, try a different one.
  • Inspect the Plug: Next, take a good look at the plug itself. Is it securely inserted into the outlet? If the plug has come loose or if there’s any visible damage to the cord or plug, this could be the problem.
  • Try Another Outlet: If your blender is plugged into a power strip or extension cord, it could be faulty. Try plugging the blender directly into a wall outlet to rule out any issues with the power strip.

If everything seems to be plugged in properly and the outlet is working, but your blender still won’t turn on, there could be another underlying issue. So, keep reading; there are other common causes to explore.

2. The Safety Switch is Engaged

Blenders, especially high-powered models, have a built-in safety feature that prevents the motor from turning on when the jar is not properly aligned. This feature is designed to protect you from accidents and damage to the blender. If the blender’s jar isn’t properly seated or if the lid is not in place, the safety switch may be triggered, and the blender won’t start.

What to Check:

  • Make Sure the Jar Is Aligned: Double-check that the blender jar is securely placed on the base. If the jar is misaligned or not seated correctly, the blender won’t start. Ensure it’s turned in the right direction to engage the safety switch.
  • Check the Lid: Some blenders have a safety mechanism that requires the lid to be properly in place before it will turn on. Make sure the lid is on tightly and that it’s in the correct position. If the lid isn’t on properly, the blender won’t function.
  • Look for Indicators: Many modern blenders have indicator lights or symbols that show when the jar and lid are correctly positioned. If your blender has this feature, check to see if the lights or symbols are indicating a proper setup.

If this is the issue, simply realign the jar, secure the lid, and try turning the blender on again. This is an easy fix that can save you from thinking your blender is broken when it’s actually just waiting for everything to be in place.

3. Faulty Power Cord or Plug

Another common issue that could prevent your blender from turning on is a damaged power cord or plug. Over time, cords can wear out, get frayed, or become damaged. If the power cord is damaged internally or has any exposed wiring, it could be causing an electrical issue and preventing the blender from getting power.

What to Check:

  • Inspect the Cord: Examine the entire length of the power cord for any signs of fraying, cuts, or exposed wires. If you notice any of these issues, the cord could be the culprit.
  • Test the Plug: Look at the plug itself. If there’s any visible damage or it appears bent or loose, this could be preventing your blender from turning on.
  • Wiggle Test: Gently wiggle the cord while the blender is plugged in. If you notice any flickering lights or the blender turning on and off, it could be an issue with the cord’s internal wiring.

If you do find damage to the cord or plug, you may need to replace the power cord entirely. In some cases, a replacement cord might be available for your model, or you may need to take your blender to a repair shop.

4. A Burnt-Out Motor or Fuse

Blenders work hard to crush ice, blend tough ingredients, and perform all sorts of kitchen tasks. But like anything that’s constantly under pressure, the motor can burn out over time, especially if the blender has been overused or misused. The same goes for fuses; they can blow if there’s a power surge or if the motor experiences too much stress.

What to Check:

  • Listen for Sounds: If you hear a humming sound when you try to turn the blender on, it could indicate that the motor is still functional but struggling. This is a sign that the motor may be overheating or that it’s under a lot of strain.
  • Check for a Blown Fuse: Many blenders have a thermal fuse or circuit breaker built in to prevent overheating. If the motor overheats or if there’s an electrical surge, the fuse could blow, causing the blender to stop working. Look at your user manual to see if your model has a fuse and where it’s located.
  • Check the Motor: If you’re not hearing any noise from the blender when you press the power button, it’s possible that the motor has completely stopped working. In this case, the only solution might be to replace the motor.

Fixing a burnt-out motor or fuse can be difficult, so if you suspect one of these issues, it may be best to consult a professional repair technician to handle the repairs. A broken motor could be expensive to replace, but in some cases, it’s more cost-effective than buying a new blender altogether.

5. Overloaded Blender or Overheating

Blenders are built to handle a lot, but there’s a limit to how much they can process at once. Overloading your blender with too many ingredients or blending for too long can cause the motor to overheat or get stuck, preventing the blender from turning on. It’s like when you push yourself too hard—eventually, your blender needs a break!

What to Check:

  • Check the Contents: Take a look inside the blender jar to see if there’s too much in there. If you’ve overfilled it, remove some ingredients and try again. A blender that’s too full will struggle to blend properly, and the motor may overheat, triggering a shutdown.
  • Give It Time to Cool: If you’ve been blending for a while, the motor may have overheated. Most blenders have a built-in thermal protector that shuts off the blender to prevent damage. If your blender has overheated, give it 15-30 minutes to cool down before trying to turn it back on.
  • Avoid Continuous Overuse: If you’re using your blender to process heavy ingredients like ice, frozen fruit, or tough vegetables, it’s important to take breaks to avoid overheating the motor. Always blend in short bursts if necessary, especially when blending thick or hard ingredients.

If overheating seems to be the issue, try reducing the load in the blender or giving it a rest between uses. If the motor continues to overheat frequently, it may be a sign that it’s time to replace the blender or have it professionally serviced.

6. Faulty Control Panel or Buttons

Another potential reason your blender won’t turn on could be a problem with the control panel or buttons. If one of the buttons or settings isn’t working, it can prevent the blender from starting. This is more common in older blenders or those with complex settings.

What to Check:

  • Inspect the Buttons: Look at the buttons and settings on your blender. Are any of them stuck or unresponsive? If a button is jammed, it may be preventing the blender from turning on. You can try gently pressing the button to see if it loosens.
  • Test the Settings: If your blender has multiple speed settings or modes, try switching between them to see if the blender responds to any specific setting. If the blender turns on at one setting but not at another, the issue could be with the control panel or the specific button.
  • Reset the Blender: Some blenders have a reset function. If you suspect an issue with the control panel, consult your user manual for reset instructions and give it a try. This can sometimes clear up any glitches or electrical issues.

If none of the buttons or settings seem to be working, it could indicate a more serious internal issue with the control board, and you might need to contact the manufacturer or a repair service.

7. The Blender is Just Too Old

Blenders, like most appliances, don’t last forever. If your blender is several years old and has seen a lot of use, the wear and tear on the components can eventually prevent it from turning on. This could be due to worn-out parts, damage from repeated use, or simply age-related issues.

What to Check:

  • Inspect for Wear and Tear: If your blender is old, it’s worth taking a look at the base and jar for signs of excessive wear. Are the motor and gears functioning properly? Is there any visible damage to the blender’s structure?
  • Check the Age of the Blender: If your blender is over 5-10 years old, it might simply be time to replace it. Technology improves over time, and newer models often come with better features, longer-lasting motors, and more energy-efficient designs.
  • Consider Replacement: If your blender has been giving you trouble for a while and repairs would be too costly, it might be time to invest in a new one. While this can be frustrating, it can also be an opportunity to upgrade to a more powerful and reliable model.

If your blender is really showing its age and is no longer working as it should, it may be best to start looking for a replacement. While it can be hard to part with an old kitchen companion, sometimes it’s just time for a new one.

Are These Questions in Your Mind?

Is it normal for the blender to overheat after just a few uses?

Blenders can overheat if used continuously or overloaded. Always allow the blender to cool down between uses, especially if you’re blending tough ingredients.

Can I fix the motor if it’s burnt out?

Fixing a burnt-out motor can be complex and costly. It may be best to consult a professional technician or consider replacing the blender.

Do I need to replace my blender if the plug is damaged?

If the plug is damaged, it’s possible to replace the cord, but if the damage is severe, it may be safer and more economical to replace the blender entirely.

Is it safe to use a blender with a faulty power cord?

No, using a blender with a faulty cord can be dangerous. It’s best to replace the cord immediately to avoid any potential hazards.

Can I fix the control panel if the buttons are unresponsive?

If the control panel buttons are unresponsive, resetting the blender may help. However, if the problem persists, it may require professional repair or replacement.

Is it okay to blend very thick mixtures in my blender?

Blending very thick mixtures in your blender can strain the motor, especially if it’s not designed for heavy-duty tasks. Always blend in short bursts and avoid overloading the blender.

Can I use a blender that has started to smell like it’s burning?

If your blender starts emitting a burning smell, it’s a sign that the motor is overheating. Turn it off and allow it to cool down. If the smell persists, it could indicate motor damage, and you should consider repair or replacement.

Do I need to clean my blender after every use?

Yes, it’s important to clean your blender after each use to prevent buildup and maintain the appliance’s performance. This will also help avoid odors and maintain the longevity of the blender.

Can a blender stop working if the lid isn’t on properly?

Yes, many blenders have a safety feature that prevents them from starting if the lid isn’t securely in place. Always ensure the lid is on correctly before turning the blender on.

Is it normal for a blender to stop working after several years of use?

Blenders can stop working after many years of use due to motor wear, damaged parts, or accumulated wear and tear. If repairs are expensive, replacing the blender might be a better option.


I hope these tips help you troubleshoot your blender issues and get back to blending your favorite treats in no time! It’s always good to know that there’s usually a solution to your appliance problems, and often a small fix is all it takes. Happy blending!

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