Are you puzzled because your dryer stopped spinning? Trust me, you’re not alone. A non-spinning dryer can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’ve got piles of wet clothes waiting. Several reasons could be causing this problem, but don’t worry, we’re here to help guide you through each potential issue and help you answer the question, “What does it mean when your dryer stops spinning?”
Dryer Stopped Spinning? How to Identify and Resolve Common Issues
We’ll be exploring the most common culprits behind a non-spinning dryer. From broken drive belts and defective door switches to accidentally engaged control locks and improperly set timers, we’ve got it all covered here.
Control Lock Activated
Most modern dryers come with a control lock feature, designed to prevent accidental activation or changes in the running cycle. If this feature has been accidentally engaged, your dryer won’t spin.
To Fix It: Usually, holding a specific button or combination for a few seconds can deactivate this feature, but the process can vary based on your dryer’s model. If you see a control lock button, hold that down for 5 seconds. If not refer to your user manual to find how to turn off a dryer control lock.
Improperly Set Timer
Another settings-related issue could be an improperly set timer. Some dryers come with a delayed start feature, allowing you to set the dryer to start at a later time. If this feature has been inadvertently activated, your dryer won’t start when you press the start button, making it seem like it’s not spinning.
To Fix It: Check your settings to ensure the timed start or delay feature is turned off. In most cases, you’ll press the delay timer button to turn this setting off. If the settings seem to be correct and your dryer is still not starting, it might be time to delve deeper into troubleshooting or reach out to a professional service.
Door Switch Is Not Engaged
An uncooperative door switch could also be the reason why your dryer stopped spinning. This switch ensures that the dryer starts only when the door is securely shut. If you find your dryer not turning on, first, check and make nothing is blocking the door from closing fully. Next, check the plastic peg on your dryer’s door switch; it should make a clicking sound when you shut the door.
If the peg appears bent or doesn’t click, it’s time to replace the switch. Straightening a bent peg might solve the issue temporarily, but for long-term peace of mind, switch replacement is advisable.
Thermal Fuse Tripped
One of the most common causes of a dryer stopping spinning is a tripped thermal fuse. This fuse is a safety measure, preventing your dryer from overheating and potentially starting a fire. If your dryer’s thermal fuse is tripped, it will need to be replaced.
However, it’s crucial to find out why it was tripped in the first place as it could signal a serious safety hazard. While resetting the fuse is possible, we strongly recommend having a professional inspect your dryer to understand and address the root cause.
Broken Drive Belt
The drive belt plays a critical role in your dryer’s operation. A broken drive belt is a common reason for a dryer not spinning. If the drum in your dryer rotates effortlessly when you manually turn it, this could be an indication of a snapped drive belt. Also if you find your dryer making noise but not spinning, this could be the problem.
While replacing the drive belt can be a DIY task, it requires some technical know-how and proper tools. Make sure to refer to your dryer’s manual or seek professional help if you’re uncertain about this process.
Worn-Out Drum Rollers
Worn-out drum rollers can cause your dryer to stop spinning. Drum rollers are small wheels that keep the drum in place as it spins. If you find your tumble dryer struggling to turn, these rollers may have become stuck and have stopped spinning freely. They will likely need replacement.
To confirm, unplug your dryer, remove the lid, detach the belt, and manually turn the drum. If the drum rollers don’t spin freely, it’s time to get new ones installed.
Damaged Roller Axles
Just as important as the drum rollers are the roller axles, also known as roller shafts. These components stabilize the drum rollers. A simple way to test their condition is by manually spinning the drum rollers once the dryer lid or back is removed. If the roller axles wobble during this process, they’re worn out and need replacement. You’ll likely hear some loud dryer noises if this is the problem.
Deteriorated Drum Bearing
The drum bearing is a crucial part supporting the back of the drum. If this part is worn out or broken, it could be putting strain on the motor and causing your dryer to stop spinning. You can check this by rotating the drum manually after removing the dryer belt. If the drum doesn’t rotate smoothly or produces scraping noises, it’s time to replace the drum bearing.
Defective Motor
Last but not least, the motor could be the culprit. If your dryer’s motor is overloaded, strained, or just plain worn out, the drum won’t spin. Replacing a motor is not a DIY job; it requires professional expertise and tools.
If your dryer stopped spinning and you’re feeling overwhelmed by these DIY steps, or if you’ve tried the above and the problem persists, it might be time to call in the professional dryer service and repair team at Solar Appliance Service. Our expert technicians can diagnose and fix your dryer quickly, getting your laundry routine back on track in no time. Don’t let a stubborn dryer throw a wrench in your day; let Solar handle it for you!
