Is your tumble dryer drum refusing to spin, even though you hear the motor running? A broken or worn-out belt is a likely culprit. You can restore your dryer’s functionality and save money on repair services by replacing the belt yourself. This guide walks you through the process.
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1. Disconnect the Power
Your safety is paramount. Unplug the tumble dryer from the electrical outlet. Do not attempt any repairs while the dryer is still connected to power.
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2. Locate the Model Number
Find the sticker or plate that displays your dryer's model number. Note this down; you will need it to ensure you have the correct replacement belt.
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3. Access the Dryer's Interior
The way you access the belt varies between models. You will typically need to remove either the back panel or the front panel (or sometimes both).
- Removing the Back Panel: Look for screws around the perimeter of the back panel. Remove all of them and carefully lift the panel off.
- Removing the Front Panel: This process can be slightly more involved.
- Top Panel Removal (Often Necessary): Sometimes, you need to remove the top panel first to access screws that secure the front panel. Look for screws at the back or underneath the front lip of the top panel. Once removed, the top panel might slide forward or lift off.
- Front Panel Screws: Once the top panel is off (if applicable), look for screws along the top, bottom, and sides of the front panel. Remove these screws.
- Releasing Clips: Some front panels are also held in place by clips. Use your putty knife to gently pry along the seams and release these clips.
- Door Switch Wires: Be cautious when removing the front panel, as wires for the door switch might be attached. You might need to disconnect these wires. Take a picture before disconnecting them to ensure correct reassembly.
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4. find the old belt
Once you have access to the interior, you will see the drum, motor, and the belt. The belt is a black rubber strip that wraps around the drum and a pulley attached to the motor. It might also go around one or more idler pulleys, which maintain tension on the belt.
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5. Remove the Old Belt:
- If the belt is broken: Carefully remove the broken pieces from around the drum and pulleys.
- If the belt is intact but loose or worn: You will need to release the tension on the belt. This is usually done by moving the idler pulley. The idler pulley is typically spring-loaded. Push or pivot the pulley to release the tension and then slide the belt off the drum and motor pulley.
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6. Clean Any Lint and Debris
While the dryer is open, take the opportunity to vacuum out any accumulated lint and dust. This improves the dryer's efficiency and reduces the risk of future problems.
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7. Install the New Belt
- Locate the Correct Path: Refer to your photos (if you took them) or observe the path the old belt took. The new belt must follow the same route around the drum and pulleys.
- Place the Belt Around the Drum: Position the new belt around the circumference of the dryer drum, ensuring it sits in the designated groove.
- Route the Belt to the Motor Pulley: Guide the other end of the belt towards the motor pulley. You might need to maneuver it around any idler pulleys at this stage.
- Apply Tension: Once the belt is around the drum and partially around the motor pulley, you will need to apply tension. This usually involves moving the idler pulley back to its original position. As you move the idler pulley, the spring mechanism will tighten the belt. Ensure the belt is seated correctly in the grooves of all pulleys.
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8. Check the Belt Alignment
Manually rotate the dryer drum a few times to ensure the belt stays in place and doesn't slip off the pulleys. The belt should move smoothly without any binding.
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9. Reassemble the Dryer
- Reconnect any door switch wires you might have disconnected.
- Reattach the front panel, ensuring all clips and screws are securely fastened.
- Reinstall the top panel (if removed).
- Replace the back panel and secure it with screws.
Tools
- 1. New Tumble Dryer Belt
- 2. Screwdriver set
- 3. Pliers
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Why do tumble dryer belts break?
Dryer belts often break due to wear and tear, overloading, or a jammed drum causing excess strain.
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What is the life expectancy of a dryer belt?
On average, a dryer belt lasts 8–10 years with normal use and proper maintenance.
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Will dryer shut off if belt breaks?
Yes, most dryers will stop running if the belt breaks, as the drum can no longer turn. Some models may still power on but won’t tumble.
Need help with a broken dryer belt? Watch this easy-to-follow video guide by Handyman Hertz on YouTube to learn how to replace it safely.