Troubleshooting Guide: Fixing a Broken Dryer Belt in Three Easy Steps Leave a comment

A broken dryer belt can be a key factor as to why your clothes dryer is malfunctioning. Read on the see some simple steps you can take at resolving it.

A clothes dryer, also referred to as a tumble dryer, is an essential household appliance that removes moisture from washed clothing, bedding, and textiles.

However, when your dryer stops working properly, a faulty dryer belt could be the culprit. This guide will walk you through the steps to diagnose and repair or replace a broken dryer belt, allowing you to restore the functionality of your appliance.

Step 1 – Locating the Dryer Belt

To begin troubleshooting your dryer belt, follow these simple steps to gain access and inspect the belt:

• Turn off the power to your dryer by unplugging it.
• Pull the dryer out from the wall or cabinet.
• Remove the top panels by locating and unthreading the screws that secure them in place.
• Take off the control panel by unthreading the screws and disconnecting the wire harnesses.
• Open the dryer door, remove the lint filter, and unscrew the visible screws.
• Disconnect the wire harnesses from the light bulb and remove the support piece by unthreading the screws.
• Locate and disconnect the wire harness connected to the sensor.
• Remove the bulkhead by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.

Step 2 – Inspecting the Dryer Belt

Once you have removed all the panels and components, you can inspect the dryer belt and determine whether it needs repair or replacement. Follow these steps:

• Locate the dryer belt, which is wrapped around the drum.
• Check the belt for any damage and ensure it is positioned in the centre of the drum, and properly connected to the idler and motor pulleys.
• If the belt has shifted, readjust its position. Reattach all panels and components, and test if the dryer functions correctly. If not, consider replacing the belt.
• If the belt is irreparably damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Cut the damaged belt and carefully remove it from the drum and pulleys.
• Remove the dryer drum from the unit to install the new belt.

Step 3 – Replacing the Dryer Belt

To install a new dryer belt, follow these instructions after purchasing the correct replacement part:

• Remove the new dryer belt from its packaging.
• Wrap the new belt around the dryer drum, ensuring that the groove side is against the drum.
• Place the drum back into the dryer, ensuring it sits on the rollers.
• Thread the belt through both the idler and motor pulleys.
• Manually rotate the drum to ensure the belt is functioning correctly and unobstructed.
• If the dryer belt is functioning properly, reassemble the dryer.
• Start by reinstalling the bulkhead and securing it with the appropriate screws.
• Reconnect the sensor and light bulb to the wire harnesses.
• Reattach the support piece and secure it with the correct screws.
• Reattach the control panel, securing it with the appropriate screws and reconnecting the wire harness.
• Reattach the front panel and secure it with the correct screws.
• Screw in the two screws under the lint filter.
• Reattach the top panel by positioning it correctly and securing it with the appropriate screws.
• Plug the dryer back into the power socket.
• Turn on the dryer and ensure it operates correctly. If the dryer still doesn’t function properly, consider contacting a certified technician for further inspection.

Final Words

By following this simple three-step guide, you can easily troubleshoot and repair a broken dryer belt, restoring the functionality of your clothes dryer.

If your appliance is already old, then maybe it’s time to upgrade to a new one. For this, we recommend visiting SIMS Stores or the nearest electronics shop near you for a wide selection of high-quality appliances.

Don’t let a broken dryer belt disrupt your daily laundry routine—get it back on track today!