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Tired of a noisy dryer? replace your whirlpool dryer belt in minutes!

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • Replacing a Whirlpool dryer belt is a task that requires a bit of technical know-how, but with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward process.
  • Signs of a broken dryer belt include the dryer not starting, making a squealing noise, or not heating properly.
  • The time it takes to replace a dryer belt can vary depending on your skill level and the accessibility of the dryer.

Replacing a Whirlpool dryer belt is a task that requires a bit of technical know-how, but with the right guidance, it can be a straightforward process. Follow our step-by-step guide and bid farewell to your dryer woes.

Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • New dryer belt
  • Work gloves
  • Safety glasses

Safety Precautions

  • Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
  • Allow the dryer to cool down completely before starting the repair.
  • Wear work gloves and safety glasses during the process.

Step 1: Remove the Back Panel

  • Locate the screws holding the back panel in place and remove them using a Phillips head screwdriver.
  • Carefully lift off the back panel and set it aside.

Step 2: Locate the Drum Belt

  • The drum belt is typically located around the rear of the dryer drum.
  • It connects the motor pulley to the drum pulley.

Step 3: Remove the Old Belt

  • Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the old belt off the motor pulley.
  • Carefully remove the belt from the drum pulley as well.

Step 4: Install the New Belt

  • Align the new belt with the grooves on the motor pulley.
  • Slip the belt onto the pulley and press it into place.
  • Repeat the process for the drum pulley.

Step 5: Tension the Belt

  • Use your hands to gently tension the belt.
  • Ensure that it is not too tight or too loose.
  • The belt should have about 1/2 to 1 inch of slack when pressed.

Step 6: Reattach the Back Panel

  • Carefully lift the back panel back into place.
  • Align the screw holes and secure the panel with the screws.

Step 7: Test the Dryer

  • Plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
  • Run a test cycle to ensure that the dryer is functioning properly.

Troubleshooting Tips

  • If the dryer does not start, check the belt tension and ensure that it is properly installed.
  • If the dryer makes a squealing noise, the belt may be too tight. Loosen it slightly.
  • If the dryer does not heat, the belt may be broken or slipping. Replace the belt as needed.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: How often should I replace my dryer belt?
A: Typically, a dryer belt should be replaced every 5-7 years or as needed if it breaks.

Q: Can I use any type of belt for my Whirlpool dryer?
A: No, it is important to use a belt specifically designed for your Whirlpool dryer model.

Q: How do I know if my dryer belt is broken?
A: Signs of a broken dryer belt include the dryer not starting, making a squealing noise, or not heating properly.

Q: Can I replace the dryer belt myself?
A: Yes, replacing a dryer belt is a task that can be completed by most homeowners with basic tools and mechanical skills.

Q: How long does it take to replace a dryer belt?
A: The time it takes to replace a dryer belt can vary depending on your skill level and the accessibility of the dryer. However, it typically takes around 30-60 minutes.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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