The tumble dryer is a complementary household appliance to the washing machine, which works on an internal heating system. The air is sucked in from the outside by a turbine, it is then heated by the resistors of the dryer. The humid air turns into water which is finally stored in a collection tank (depending on the type of dryer).
Like any other appliance, it is important to ensure that all its parts are always in good condition, especially the part that plays a key role in the operation of the dryer: the motor.
The motor of a clothes dryer mainly drives the drum and the impeller in order to move the air which is heated by the internal resistance.
With time and use, you may encounter problems at this level. Indeed, the failure of an engine can cause the total malfunction of your equipment. When the motor is faulty:
- You may hear abnormal noise from inside,
- Your device does not start anymore,
- Your machine turns on, but the drum does not rotate.
In order to avoid this kind of problem, it is strongly recommended to replace it without further delay. This is an operation that you can do on your own.
The motor of a clothes dryer is located inside behind the drum. To access it, you must remove the rear panel and then the drum.
The motor in a dryer is responsible for spinning the drum and facilitating the drying process. If the motor becomes faulty or stops working, it can lead to the dryer not starting or the drum not turning during a drying cycle. Changing the motor of a dryer is a relatively advanced repair that requires some mechanical skills and knowledge of electrical components. If you are confident in your abilities, you can follow this step-by-step guide to replace the motor in your dryer.
Please Note: Before starting any repair work on your dryer, prioritize safety. Ensure the dryer is disconnected from the power supply by either unplugging it from the electrical outlet or switching off the circuit breaker dedicated to the dryer.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you begin the process of changing the motor, gather the following tools and materials:
- Replacement dryer motor (ensure it is compatible with your dryer model)
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Nut driver or socket set
- Towels or rags
Step 2: Disconnect the Dryer from the Power Supply
Before working on the dryer, ensure it is disconnected from the power supply to avoid any electrical hazards. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet or switch off the circuit breaker dedicated to the dryer.
Step 3: Access the Dryer Motor
To access the dryer motor, you will need to open the dryer’s cabinet. The specific steps to access the motor may vary depending on your dryer model. Typically, you will need to:
- Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the dryer’s top panel to the cabinet. Slide a putty knife or 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 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 internal components of the dryer, including the motor.
Step 4: Disconnect the Old Dryer Motor
With access to the dryer motor, follow these steps to disconnect the old motor:
- Locate the motor, which is typically positioned at the back of the dryer.
- Disconnect the wires attached to the motor terminals. Take a picture or make note of the wire connections for reference during reassembly.
- Use pliers or a nut driver to remove any mounting screws or bolts securing the motor to the dryer frame.
- Carefully slide the old motor out of its position.
Step 5: Install the New Dryer Motor
With the old dryer motor removed, it’s time to install the new motor:
- Slide the new dryer motor into its designated position in the dryer.
- Secure the motor to the dryer frame with the mounting screws or bolts.
- Reconnect the wires to the appropriate terminals on the new motor, using your reference notes or pictures to guide you.
Step 6: Reassemble the Dryer
With the new dryer motor installed, it’s time to reassemble the dryer:
- Replace the dryer’s front panel and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
- Reconnect any wires or cables attached to the door switch.
- Lower the top panel back into position and secure it with the screws or clips.
Step 7: Test the Dryer
Before pushing the dryer back into its designated spot, perform a test to ensure the new motor is functioning correctly. Turn on the dryer and observe if the drum rotates smoothly and the motor operates without any unusual noises.
Step 8: Final Adjustments
If you encounter any issues during the test, double-check the installation of the new motor. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the motor is properly installed and functioning correctly.
Conclusion
Changing the motor of a dryer is a complex repair that requires attention to detail and safety. By following this step-by-step guide and prioritizing safety, you can successfully replace the old or faulty dryer motor with a new one, ensuring your dryer operates efficiently and effectively. 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 motor properly installed, your dryer should function reliably, providing you with optimal drying performance for your laundry.