Whirlpool Dryer: not spinning

Possible Causes

Broken or worn drive belt

How to Identify: Drum does not turn even though motor may hum; open the dryer and inspect belt for breakage, cracks or looseness.

Part: Drive belt

Idler pulley or drum roller failure

How to Identify: Drum may spin freely by hand when off, but noisy or stuck roller/pulley during operation stops rotation; wear visible on rollers.

Part: Idler pulley / drum rollers

Thermal fuse or safety cut-out blown

How to Identify: Dryer stops mid-cycle and drum won’t rotate; thermal fuse failure often from overheating.

Part: Thermal fuse

DIY Solutions

Inspect and Replace Drive Belt

Moderate 45–90 minutes

Tools Needed: Screwdrivers, Nut driver set, Work gloves

1. Unplug dryer from power.
2. Remove access panels to expose the belt and drum.
3. Visually inspect belt for breakage or wear.
4. If broken, remove old belt and route a new belt around drum and motor pulley according to model instructions.
5. Reassemble panels and test dryer.

⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before opening dryer.

Test and Replace Door Switch

Moderate 30–60 minutes

Tools Needed: Multimeter, Screwdriver set

1. Unplug dryer.
2. Access door switch by removing front panel.
3. Use multimeter to test continuity of switch when door closed.
4. If no continuity, replace switch with OEM part.
5. Reassemble and test operation.

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before working with electrical components.

Professional Repairs

Motor Assembly Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150–$350

Idler Pulley / Drum Roller Replacement

Estimated Cost: $80–$180

Thermal Fuse Replacement

Estimated Cost: $30–$80

When to Call a Professional

Motor does not run after belt and door switch tests

Evidence of electrical burning or smoke

Unusual noises like grinding or squealing from inside dryer

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean lint filter and dryer vents: Airflow restriction and overheating that can stress components
  Frequency: After every use / annually for vents
• Check door latch and switch action: Intermittent or failure to start problems
  Frequency: Monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Dryer not spinning?

Common causes include a broken drive belt, idler pulley failure, or a blown thermal fuse.

How do I fix Whirlpool Dryer not spinning myself?

You can inspect and replace the drive belt or test the door switch for continuity.

How much does it cost to fix not spinning?

Professional repairs range from $30 for a thermal fuse to $350 for a motor assembly.

When should I call a technician for not spinning?

Call a technician if DIY solutions are out of your comfort zone or if the issue persists after your attempts.

References & Sources

• Not Tumbling or Spinning - Dryer - Whirlpool Product Help Official
• Whirlpool Dryer Not Spinning? Check for These 5 Causes Repair-Blog

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Belt issue (breakage or slippage) (2 mentions)
• Rollers or idler arm assembly malfunction (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Check the belt for breakage or slippage; if the motor is running, it's likely the belt issue.

   Success rate: 50.0%

2. Check for rollers, shafts, idler arm assembly, and belt.

   Success rate: 25.0%

Community Discussions

dryer stopped spinning but still heats

Check the belt for breakage or slippage; if the motor is running, it's likely the belt issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

tub stopped spinning and smelled like smoke

It may not need a motor; check for rollers, shafts, idler arm assembly, and belt.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair