Is your dryer not spinning? Here’s how to fix it.

If you put a load of wet clothes in your dryer, turn it on but the drum won’t spin, it can be frustrating for you but it is typical problem for dryers. The first thing you should do is to determine the source of the problem. Do not run the dryer until you have identified the issue causing the malfunction. Although the dryer might continue to heat, subjecting your clothes to hot air without them being able to tumble can lead to burn marks and holes.

Follow these simple tips to get your dryer spinning properly:

  • Check the power supply

Make sure that your dryer is plugged in. If the power cord is damaged, it should be replaced. Then, make sure that the dryer’s two circuit breakers are both turned on. If they are not, reset them.

  • Check the door switch

A door switch is a simple mechanism that prevents the dryer from operating when the door is open.  It is located around the door opening in the front panel.  When you close the dryer door, a plastic peg should click and allow the door switch to start the dryer. If the peg is bent or broken, you will need to straighten or replace it. If the peg is fine, the door switch has failed and should be replaced.

  • Make sure dryer is not overloaded

A load of heavy, wet clothes may cause the drive belt to slip. Remove some of the clothing and try to start the drying program again.

  • Check if the drum is turning freely

If the drum does not turn freely or turns counter-clockwise during operation, the belt may be broken or loose and service will be required.

 

 

 

 

If these tips do not help you to fix the dryer that won’t spin, the service technician can diagnose the problem and get your dryer back up and running. If you would like to schedule a service appointment, please call (818) 600-2559 and our professional technician will do his best to repair your dryer at the soonest possible time.

Things that might be causing the issue:

  • Broken drive belt

The drum is rotated by a drive belt. It is a very long, slender belt that wraps all the way around the dryer drum, around a tension pulley, and then around the drive motor pulley. which can wear down and break over time. To replace the belt you will need to remove the front panel and the front bulkhead. Line up the new belt with the markings on the drum from the old one. Then, wind it around both the motor pulley and the idler pulley and it should be set.

  • Worn drum roller or axle

Most dryers will have two or more rollers supporting the rear of the drum, and some will have another two rollers supporting the front. If any of the rollers or roller axles wear out, the drum will have trouble turning and will likely make a squeaking sound. It is better to replace all of the rollers and axles at the same time.

  • Damaged drum glide

Some dryer models have plastic glides that support the front of the drum. A worn or damaged glide may cause the drum to bind putting a strain on the drive motor.

  • Worn drum bearing

Some models utilize a rear drum bearing and retainer to support the drum. Again, if the bearing is worn-out the drum will have difficulty turning resulting in noisy operation.

  • Malfunctioning drive motor

The drive motor drives the belt and operates the blower wheel. If there are no obstructions preventing the blower wheel from turning and the motor makes a humming sound, it is likely that the motor has failed and will need to be replaced.

 

 

 

 

 

To get your dryer working most efficiently for years, just follow simple tips from Alliance to Save Energy coalition:

  • Clean the dryer lint filter after every load.A lint-free filter improves air circulation and quickens drying, whereas a clogged filter and vent can cause a home fire.
  • Separate light and heavy items before drying.Lightweight items take less drying time, so don’t waste dryer time by throwing your undergarments and t-shirts in with your towels and rugs.
  • Don’t over-dry clothes.Take clothes out while they are still slightly damp to reduce the need for ironing — another energy user. If your dryer has an auto-dry feature, use that instead of the timer.
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