Hi Dean,
Screen saver doesn't start in Windows 8.1 I recently reinstalled Windows 8.1 Pro on my computer and now the screen saver does not kick in after 1 minute (as per the setting). I tried a different screen saver with the same result.
To understand the issue with screen saver better,I would need more information from your end.
1.What is the make and model of the computer?
2.Do you get any error message while setting screen saver?
This issue may occur if display drivers are damaged or if there is any conflict between third party applications. Let’s try few steps to resolve the issue.
Method 1:
I would suggest you to uninstall the display driver and install latest display driver from the computer manufacturer website.
Step 1: Uninstall display driver.
a)Right-click on the Start Button and click on Device manager.
b)Double-click on Display Adapters to expand.
Screensaver Not Working Windows 10
c)Right click on the display adapter driver that is listed and select properties.
d)In the window opened, click on drivers tab.
e)In the drivers tab, Click on Uninstall option.
Step 2:
Install latest display driver from the computer manufacturer website and check if it helps.
Windows 8.1 Screensaver
Method 2:
If the issue persists, I would suggest you to set the computer in a clean boot and check if it helps.
Setting the system in a clean boot state will help to identify if any third party applications or startup items are causing the issue.
How to perform a clean boot to troubleshoot a problem in Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Windows 8
Note: After clean boot troubleshooting steps, refer to the section 'How to reset the computer to start as usual after troubleshooting with clean boot' in the provided link to return your computer to Normal startup mode.
Refer to the article for additional information.
How to use screen savers
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-IN/windows-8/using-screen-savers
Screensaver Not Working Windows 8
Hope this information helps. Reply to the post with updated status of the issue to assist you further.