To rotate the drum, the dryer has a motor. But this one is too small to spin a drum containing laundry. There is therefore a part responsible for the transmission between the motor and the drum: the belt.
Over time and with use, it can wear out, crumble or be cut. You will notice that it should be changed if you are having problems with the rotation of your dryer drum.
On most machines, the belt can be removed from the back and surrounds the drum. It is possible to observe its condition simply by removing the cover. To replace it, however, you will have to remove the back of the device.
The belt in a dryer is an essential part of the drum’s rotation system. It wraps around the drum and connects to the motor pulley, allowing the motor to turn the drum during the drying cycle. Over time, the belt may become worn, cracked, or broken, leading to issues with the dryer’s operation, such as the drum not spinning or making loud noises. Changing the belt is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires some basic tools and a bit of mechanical know-how. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of changing the belt on a dryer.
Step 1: Safety Precautions
Before you begin any repair work on your dryer, prioritize safety. Ensure the dryer is disconnected from the power supply by unplugging it from the electrical outlet or switching off the circuit breaker dedicated to the dryer.
Step 2: Access the Dryer’s Belt
To access the dryer’s belt, you will need to open the dryer’s cabinet. The specific steps to access the belt may vary depending on your dryer model. Generally, you will need to:
- Remove any screws or clips securing the dryer’s top panel to the cabinet. Slide a putty knife or a similar tool between the top and front panels to release any hidden clips.
- Lift the top panel and prop it up securely.
- Locate and remove the screws or clips securing the front panel to the sides of the cabinet.
- Carefully tilt the front panel forward and disconnect any wires or cables attached to the door switch.
- Set the front panel aside.
- Now, you will have access to the dryer’s internal components, including the belt.
Step 3: Remove the Old Belt
Locate the belt around the dryer’s drum. The belt should be wrapped around the drum and looped through the motor pulley and the tension pulley.
To remove the old belt, release the tension from the tension pulley by pushing or pulling it. This will loosen the belt, allowing you to slip it off the motor and tension pulleys.
Step 4: Install the New Belt
Position the new belt around the drum in the same configuration as the old one, making sure it rests on the drum’s grooves.
Loop the belt through the motor pulley and then through the tension pulley, ensuring it sits on the smooth side of the tension pulley.
Step 5: Apply Tension to the Belt
With the new belt in place, apply tension to the tension pulley to create enough tension on the belt. This is important for proper drum rotation during the drying cycle.
Step 6: Reassemble the Dryer
With the new belt installed and the tension applied, it’s time to reassemble the dryer. Replace the dryer’s front panel and secure it with the screws or clips you removed earlier.
Step 7: Test the Dryer
Before pushing the dryer back into its designated spot, perform a test run to check if the new belt is functioning correctly. Turn on the dryer and run a drying cycle to ensure that the drum spins smoothly without any issues.
Step 8: Final Adjustments
If you notice any issues during the test run, such as the belt slipping or making unusual noises, double-check the installation and belt tension. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the belt functions properly and the drum rotates smoothly.
Conclusion
Changing the belt on a dryer is a manageable task that can resolve issues with drum rotation and ensure the proper operation of your appliance. By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully replace the old belt with a new one, allowing the motor to turn the drum during the drying cycle. However, if you encounter any difficulties during the process or have concerns about handling the repair, it’s always best to seek assistance from a professional dryer technician. With the new belt properly installed and tensioned, your dryer should operate smoothly and effectively, providing you with efficient drying performance.
