How to fix a tumble dryer that is not turning

The most common reasons for a tumble dryer not turning are:

• Belt has come loose or snapped
• Faulty capacitor
• Faulty motor

Step 1 - Belt has come loose or snapped

The most common cause of a clothes dryer not spinning is a problem with the belt.  The belt may have snapped completely or is slipping due to stretching over time.

Before removing carrying out any repairs on your tumble dryer rememeber to unplug first.  If the belt has snapped it will probably have fallen to the bottom of the tumble dryer so when you lift off the lid you won't be able to see it stretched around the drum.  Tilt the clothes dryer back and you'll find it on the floor or caught inside the tumble dryer.  See our step by step guide on:

How to replace the belt on a tumble dryer

Step 2 - Check the Start Capacitor

If it’s not the belt, you should next check the start capacitor.  The capacitor is a small component that works by releasing stored up energy to give an initial power boost to start the motor turning.  If the capacitor is faulty then the tumble dryer will remain idle and will not turn or spin.  For more information check out our guide:

how to replace your tumble dryer capacitor

Step 3 - Check the motor

Alternatively, the motor itself may have developed a fault – in this case you will need to replace the entire motor. If neither the drive belt nor the capacitor is faulty, it is likely to be the motor that is the problem.