Siemens Dryer: trips breaker, shaking

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing issues with your Siemens dryer that trips the circuit breaker and shakes violently? This could indicate an electrical fault, motor strain, or mechanical imbalance causing serious operational problems. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further damage.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Siemens Models

Official Siemens troubleshooting does not list breaker trips specifically; use general manufacturer diagnostics

Possible Causes

Circuit overload or short caused by electrical fault

How to Identify: Breaker trips repeatedly when starting or mid-cycle; checks on internal wiring, heating element continuity to housing show shorts; smells of burning or burnt wiring.

Part: Internal wiring, heating element, motor, or terminal connections

Motor drawing excessive current due to strain or internal failure

How to Identify: Breaker trips often when drum attempts to rotate; unusual noises (humming, grinding; drum difficult to turn manually with power off.

Part: Drive motor

Mechanical imbalance or worn internal support parts causing excessive vibration

How to Identify: Dryer shakes or rocks during operation; vibration persists even with balanced loads; visible wear on drum rollers or loose internal parts.

Part: Drum rollers, bearings, blower wheel, leveling feet

DIY Solutions

Level dryer and redistribute load

Easy 10-15 minutes

Tools Needed: spirit level

Unplug the dryer.
Place a spirit level on top and adjust the leveling feet until it is level.
Re-balance the clothing load inside the drum to avoid heavy clumps.

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before adjusting feet.

Inspect and clean vent and lint trap

Moderate 15-30 minutes

Tools Needed: vacuum with brush attachment

Unplug the dryer and pull it away from the wall.
Remove and clean the lint trap thoroughly.
Check and remove lint from the dryer vent and duct.

⚠️ Safety First: Ensure lint doesnâ€™t ignite; wear protective gloves.

Professional Repairs

Replace faulty internal wiring or components

Estimated Cost: $150 - $450

Replace mechanical support components to stop vibration

Estimated Cost: $120 - $300

When to Call a Professional

Breaker trips immediately upon starting even after checking load and level

Burning smell or visible damage on wires, terminals, or internal components

Dryer still trips breaker after DIY vent cleaning and load adjustment

Preventive Maintenance

Clean lint filter: Vent blockages that cause overheating and strain
Frequency: after every cycle
Check dryer level and feet: Excessive vibration and load imbalance
Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Siemens Dryer trips breaker, shaking?

Common causes include circuit overload, motor strain, or mechanical imbalance leading to excessive vibration.

How do I fix Siemens Dryer trips breaker, shaking myself?

Try leveling the dryer and redistributing the load, or inspect and clean the vent and lint trap.

How much does it cost to fix trips breaker, shaking?

Professional repairs can range from $120 to $450 depending on the issue and required components.

When should I call a technician for trips breaker, shaking?

Call a technician if DIY fixes donâ€™t resolve the issue or if you suspect internal electrical faults or serious mechanical problems.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

Faulty motor causing excessive vibration and electrical draw
Worn or damaged drum support rollers leading to imbalance
Electrical short circuit in the wiring or components

User Suggested Solutions

Inspect and replace the motor if it's faulty. Disconnect the dryer from the power source, remove the back panel, and check the motor for signs of wear or damage. If necessary, replace the motor with a compatible part.
Check and replace drum support rollers. Unplug the dryer, remove the front panel, and inspect the rollers for wear. Replace them if they are damaged or worn out.
Inspect the wiring for shorts. Disconnect the dryer, check the wiring harness for frays or exposed wires, and repair or replace as necessary.