For those of us who are less mechanically inclined, repairing your clothes dryer may appear to be a daunting task, but there are some repairs that can be completed without the assistance of a professional. One of the most typical problems with your Whirlpool dryer is a worn-out dryer belt, which may be simply replaced even by mechanical amateurs. You can change the dryer belt on your machine at home with just a few simple tools. If you follow these steps, you’ll be able to have your Whirlpool up and running again in no time.
We recommend learning more about Whirlpool dryer troubleshooting.
When should a dryer belt be replaced?
There are several symptoms that your Whirlpool belt needs to be replaced. Unexpected noises during drying cycles are one of the first things you’ll notice. Your dryer belt is certainly wearing thin if it makes odd squeaking or thumping noises. If possible, replace the belt before it breaks to extend the life of your dryer. If the belt does break, you’ll most likely notice it immediately. Even if you hear the motor running, the dryer will most likely stop turning, shut off before the clothes are dry, or refuse to turn on at all. Other electrical difficulties with the machine could be to blame, but the most common cause is a damaged dryer belt.
How do I change the belt on my dryer?
Fortunately, a damaged dryer belt is a pretty simple repair. New belts are available online and at most home appliance stores. Check the belt dimensions required for your Whirlpool model, then pick one out and fix it yourself using the instruction below.
- Make sure the dryer is turned off and unplugged from all power sources. Unplug the machine from the outlet and move it away from the wall.
- Take out the lint filter from the dryer’s top. Most Whirlpool machines have a filter in the upper right-hand corner. Where the filter used to be, two little screws should be visible. Remove them and place both of your containers in a safe place.
- Next, insert your putty knife into the groove on the front of the dryer to separate the top from the body. The top of the dryer should be propped up on both sides so that it may be flipped out of the way.
- Using your nut driver, undo two hex-head bolts in the upper corners of the front panel to remove the front of the machine. Prepare to hold the drum, which should be removed together with the front panel. You may need an extra pair of hands or something to prop up the drum while you work.
- At this point, the belt should be visible. If it’s already broken, simply remove it from the drum; if it’s still attached, you may need to use a tool knife to cut it off.
- Now it’s time to put the new belt on the drum. The flat side should face out, and the grooved side should face inward toward the drum. Then, to pull the belt taut, wrap it under the tensioner pulley and around the motor pulley.
- Now you can put the dryer back together. Replace the two hex-head bolts that connect the drum to the rim of the front cabinet panel and slide it back into the machine. Replace the screws and lint trap after swinging the top-down and pushing until it locks back into place. When you reconnect the dryer, it should be ready to dry a load of clothing.
