If your Whirlpool dryer is taking longer than usual to dry or you hear strange noises coming from the machine whenever it is running, it could be a sign that your dryer belt is faulty or broken and needs replacement.
The dryer belt is responsible for rotating the drum while tumbling, and if it gets damaged or broken, it can cause serious problems in the dryer and affect its operation.
Replacing a whirlpool dryer belt dryer belt is simple and easy to carry out. It is an affordable task that can help you save money for service calls. Simply follow these steps to learn how to replace a dryer belt in no time.
Signs Your Dryer Belt Needs Replacing
If the belt in your dryer is faulty or broken, you might notice some signs that something is wrong. Some of the common signs that show that a dryer belt needs replacement include:
- Loud noise during operation
- The drum doesn’t turn
- Clothes take longer to dry
- The dryer won’t start
- Visible drum misalignment
- Burnt rubber smell
- Visible damage
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to check it out further. And if the dryer is damaged or broken, follow the procedures in this guide to replace it.
How To Replace A Whirlpool Dryer Belt
To successfully replace a Whirlpool dryer belt, you need the right steps, procedures, and equipment. Before we commence with our replacement, make sure you have the following items:
- A new belt
- Phillips screwdriver
- 5/16th nut driver or socket.
- Pliers
- Putty knife
- Gloves
- Vacuum cleaner
Once these items are available and in good condition, follow the steps outlined below to replace your dryer belt:
Step 1: Unplug the Whirlpool Dryer
The first step in replacing your Whirlpool dryer belt is to unplug it from the socket. This is to prevent any sudden accidents while working on the dryer. Do not perform any repairs on the dryer while it is still plugged into a power source. Clear the surrounding area to create enough space for the work.
Step 2: Take Off the Front Panel of the Dryer
After you unplug the dryer, you should be able to reach the internal parts, including the dryer belt. You will need to use a 5/16th nut driver to take out the screws under the lint filter at the bottom.
Take out the screws and keep them in a safe place. After taking out all the screws, use a flat-edge screwdriver or putty knife to carefully lift the top of the front panel away from the dryer.
Carefully lift the front panel upwards and gently take it out from the dryer. Keep the panel and the screws safe and in a secure location, as you’ll need to put them back on after you finish replacing the belt.
The inside of the dryer usually accumulates a lot of dirt and dust, use a vacuum cleaner to clean the inside of the dryer, then proceed with the next step.
Step 3: Take Out the Drum from the Cabinet
Taking out the drum from the cabinet requires a bit more effort and attention to detail, but it’s nothing you can’t handle. First, find the drum support rollers and take them out of the cabinet. Then, disconnect the belt from the motor and idler pulley before removing the drum.
Note: In some Whirlpool models, you may need to disconnect the lid switch wires before taking out the cabinet.
Carefully lift and remove the drum from the cabinet and store it in a secure location. It’s important to be gentle during this step, as the drum is heavy and can get damaged easily.
Step 4: Take Off the Old Belt from the Drum
After taking out the drum, it’s time to take off the old dryer belt and replace it with a new one. Before taking out the belt, make sure to notice how the old belt is positioned and wrapped around the drum because you will need the correct alignment when installing the new belt later on.
To remove the old belt from your dryer, slide it off the drum gently and set it aside in a secure location. If the belt is stuck or hard to remove, use a putty knife or flathead screwdriver to gently pry it off. Be careful not to damage the drum or any other parts of the dryer while doing this.
Step 5: Install the New Drive Belt Around the Drum
Now that you have successfully removed the old belt, it’s time to install the new one around the drum. Start by placing the new belt around the drum and position it in the same place as the old one.
Once you’ve achieved that, you will need to loop the belt around the motor pulley. Fasten the loop properly and ensure it is tight but not too tight. If done correctly, the idler pulley should add tension to the belt. Now, rotate the drum manually using your hand to see if it moves smoothly.
You may need an extra hand for this step as the weight of the dryer drum could cause it to sag downwards and make it difficult to reach the motor. If the belt is properly aligned, the drum should rotate smoothly.
Step 6: Reinstall the Drum Back into the Cabinet
After successfully installing the new belt, it’s time to reassemble the dryer back together. Start by returning the drum back into the dryer cabinet and secure it tightly using screws and screwdrivers. This is an important step in the process because a loose drum can cause the new belt to slip off, leading to further damage.
Ensure the drum is level and sits comfortably on the rollers. Then tighten the screws or bolts that hold them in place. Be careful not to damage the drum or other parts of the dryer while carrying out this step.
Step 7: Reinstall the Front Panel
Finally, the last and final step in replacing your Whirlpool dryer belt is to reinstall the front panel. The front panel is the last piece of the puzzle to put everything back together. This step is relatively simple and only requires the use of screwdrivers.
Start by making sure the panel matches up with the clips at the bottom of the dryer. Once in place, push it onto the dryer until you hear a clicking sound indicating that the panel is securely fixed to the dryer.
Now use the screws you removed in step 2 to secure the panel back onto the dryer. Use a screwdriver to replace the screws and the lint trap; make sure they are tight but not too tight that they damage the panel or dryer.
Conclusion
That’s it for replacing a Whirlpool dryer belt! Replacing a dryer belt wasn’t as difficult as you thought, right? That’s because it’s a straightforward process that most people can handle themselves with the right tools and instructions.
With this guide, you can change your faulty or broken dryer belt without the expense of a service call. Do not forget to unplug the dryer from the wall outlet before performing any repairs and always be on the lookout for signs that indicate a problem with the dryer belt so you can fix them on time before the damage becomes severe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth replacing dryer belt?
Yes, replacing a dryer belt is usually worth it. It is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair that you can carry out yourself. With the right steps and equipment, you can replace your dryer belt without any issues.
How much does it cost to replace a belt on a Whirlpool dryer?
The cost of replacing a belt on a Whirlpool dryer varies depending on whether you do it yourself or hire a professional. The belt itself typically costs between $10 and $50. However, if you decide to hire a professional, the total cost, including the service charge, would be around $200 to $300. Replacing the belt yourself can help you cut costs and save money.
How do I know what size dryer belt I need?
To find the right size dryer belt, check your manufacturer’s manual for your dryer’s model number and belt size. If the belt size is not written on the manual, you can use the model number on the manufacturer’s website to look up the belt size.
Can I replace my own dryer belt?
Yes, you can replace a dryer belt on your own if you know the right steps and have the right tools. It is a relatively simple procedure that is easy to carry out. Follow the steps and procedures in this guide to successfully replace your dryer belt.
Will dryer work if belt is broken?
No, the dryer will not work properly if the belt is broken. The belt is responsible for turning the dryer drum, so if it is broken, the drum will not spin, and clothes will not tumble and dry effectively. A broken dryer belt should be replaced immediately.
Check out our other article: Whirlpool Dryer Not Starting: 10 Easy Ways Fix It Fast
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
