Tumble Dryer Not Spinning – What’s Wrong and How to Fix It

If your dryer’s drum stays still, laundry piles up and you’re left with damp clothes. It’s a frustrating problem, but most of the time the cause is simple and can be checked in minutes. Below we cover the usual culprits, quick DIY steps, and the signs that you should call a qualified repair service.

Common reasons why your tumble dryer won’t spin

First, make sure the dryer is plugged in and the power switch is on. A tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse can stop the motor from running, and the dryer will look like it’s broken when it’s just an electrical issue.

Next, look at the door latch. Dryers have a safety switch that stops the drum if the door isn’t fully closed. If the latch is loose, dirty, or broken, the switch stays open and the motor won’t turn. Give the latch a clean with a dry cloth and test the door a few times.

The drum belt is another frequent offender. Over time the belt can stretch, wear out, or snap. When the belt breaks the motor still runs, but the drum stays still. Pull the dryer out, remove the front panel and look for a rubber belt around the drum. If it’s frayed or missing, you’ll need a replacement belt.

Clogged lint filters and vent pipes also affect spinning. When airflow is blocked, the dryer can overheat and the motor may shut down as a safety measure. Clean the lint filter after every load and check the vent pipe for blockages at least once a year.

Finally, the motor itself can fail. Motors make a humming sound before they give up. If you hear a buzz but the drum doesn’t turn, the motor bearings may be worn or the motor could be burnt out. This is a job for a professional.

What to do when your dryer stops spinning

Start with the easy checks: reset any tripped breakers, make sure the door clicks shut, and give the lint filter a quick clean. If the dryer still won’t spin, unplug it and pull it away from the wall. Open the front panel – you’ll usually find a few screws hidden behind the control knob. Look at the belt and replace it if needed.

If the belt looks fine, feel the motor shaft. It should rotate freely by hand when the dryer is off. Any grinding or resistance points to motor problems. At this stage, it’s best to call Bognor Regis Appliance Repair Experts. Their technicians know how to test motor windings, replace faulty parts, and get your dryer back in action safely.

Don’t try to force the drum or use extra pressure on the motor – you could cause more damage and end up with a costlier repair. Instead, note any unusual noises, smells, or error codes on the display and pass that info to the repair service. The more detail you give, the faster they can diagnose the issue.

Regular maintenance keeps the drum turning smoothly. Clean the lint filter after each load, vacuum the vent pipe quarterly, and give the drum a wipe‑down to remove fabric softener buildup. A quick check every few months can stop most spin‑related failures before they happen.

When you do need a pro, choose a local service that knows the specific models sold in the UK. Bognor Regis Appliance Repair Experts offer fast response times, transparent pricing, and a guarantee on parts and labour. A prompt fix means you won’t have to rearrange your laundry schedule for weeks.

In short, a dryer that won’t spin is usually a simple fix – check power, door latch, belt, and lint. If those steps don’t help, call the experts to avoid bigger problems. With a bit of care, your dryer will be drying clothes again in no time.