How to Fix a Dryer That Won’t Spin (In 10 Steps)

If your dryer won’t spin, something is wrong with one of the internal components. To get your dryer working again, you must discover which component is faulty and then repair or replace it. This guide will walk you through all the main components to check and advise you on how to fix them.

Before attempting any repairs, always remember to disconnect the dryer from the power source for your safety. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with diagnosing and fixing the problem yourself, it’s best to get a qualified appliance repair technician to do it for you. They can diagnose the issue and perform the necessary repairs safely and accurately. You will require a multimeter if you choose to test the components yourself. 

1. Check the Power Supply

The best place to start is to ensure the dryer is properly plugged into a functioning power outlet. Sometimes, a loose or disconnected power cord can cause the dryer to appear non-responsive. If you have ruled out the power supply as the cause of the problem, proceed to the next step.

2. Check the Door Switch

The door switch prevents the dryer from spinning when the door is open. Check if the door switch works correctly by closing the dryer door and listening for a clicking sound. If you don’t hear a click, the door switch might be faulty and needs replacement. A multimeter test can confirm this. If defective, replace the door switch. Once replaced, ensure your dryer is operating correctly. If the door switch isn’t defective or replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

3. Check the Drive Belt

The drive belt helps the dryer drum to rotate. Over time, it can wear out, break, or slip off the pulleys. To check the drive belt, you must remove the dryer’s rear panel or front panel, depending on the model. Look for the belt around the drum. If it appears worn or broken, replace it with a new one. Additionally, ensure that the belt is correctly positioned on the pulleys. If the drive belt isn’t defective or replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

4. Check the Dryer Motor

The dryer’s motor is what drives the drum’s rotation. A malfunctioning motor can prevent the drum from spinning. To test the motor, try manually spinning the drum by hand. If the drum is difficult to turn or you feel resistance, the motor might be faulty and needs replacement. A multimeter test can confirm this. If defective, replace it. If the motor isn’t defective or replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

5. Check the Idler Pulley

The idler pulley helps maintain tension on the drive belt. If worn out or damaged, it can cause the belt to slip off the pulleys, leading to a non-spinning drum. Inspect the idler pulley for any signs of wear, and if necessary, replace it. If the idler pulley isn’t worn out or replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

6. Check the Drum Rollers

Dryers with front-loading drums have drum rollers or glides that support the drum’s rotation. Over time, they can wear out, causing the drum to bind and prevent spinning. Inspect the drum rollers or glides for signs of wear or damage. If needed, replace them. If the drum rollers aren’t defective or replacing them doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

7. Check the Drive Centrifugal Switch

The drive motor has a centrifugal switch that engages when the motor starts spinning. If the switch is faulty, the motor may not start, leading to a non-spinning drum. You must test the centrifugal switch with a multimeter to confirm it is defective. If it fails the test, replace it. If the centrifugal switch isn’t defective or if replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

8. Check the Drum Belt Switch

Some dryers have a safety switch that detects the tension in the drum belt. If the belt breaks, the switch triggers and prevents the dryer from spinning. Check if your dryer has this switch and replace it if it’s broken. If the drum belt switch isn’t defective or if replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

9. Check the Thermal Fuse

Sometimes, a blown thermal fuse can cause the dryer not to spin. The thermal fuse cuts the power to the dryer if it overheats to prevent fire hazards and damage to your laundry. Use a multimeter to check for continuity across the thermal fuse. If it has no continuity, it’s likely blown and needs replacement. If the thermal fuse isn’t defective or replacing it doesn’t solve the problem, proceed to the next step.

10. Replace the Control Board

For dryers with electronic control boards, a malfunction in the board can cause the drum not to spin. The control board may be the issue if other components are working fine. Before replacing the main control board, you should consider seeking a second opinion from a qualified technician, as replacing the board isn’t guaranteed to fix the problem.