Conclusion. In the world of dryer maintenance, the dryer belt plays a crucial role in ensuring your appliance's proper functioning. When faced with a broken or failing dryer belt, it's usually worth considering a replacement, especially if your dryer is in good condition otherwise.
Drum belts should be replaced if you're replacing the drum rollers. They may look good, but they loose lubrication over time and can start squeaking and causing the motor to work harder.
A faulty dryer belt can cause your drying machine to stop working, so you'll need to replace it as soon as possible. While the part itself costs between $8 and $25, professional dryer belt replacement costs $120 on average, or between $60 and $190, depending on your type of dryer.
Like cars, the most expensive part of a dryer is any electrical component, specifically the control board. For newer dryers, this single part, excluding the labor required to replace it, can easily be worth more than half the price of a new unit.
It's not easy because as you said, the drum and the blower wheel are in your way. To install the belt you just have to have long thin arms because you need to reach under the drum after the belt is wrapped around the drum. Then you just reach back and install the belt by FEEL.
Without the belt attached, the motor can run all it wants and the drum will never move.
Dryer belts can last 10 to 20 years, so it's definitely worth fixing it if you're able to. If you need help, we recommend contacting your local appliance store for a reliable repairman.
Dryer repair costs will vary depending on the issue. For example, it will cost much less to replace a dryer belt than a motor. That said, if your clothes dryer is more than halfway through its lifespan—7 years or more—and the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new one, you should consider replacing it.
The average life expectancy of a dryer is around 10-13 years. And no matter how great your clothes dryer is, all appliances will wear down eventually.
Dryer Shuts Off Quickly
Common issues include a broken motor relay, a malfunctioning push-to-start switch or timer, or a clogged exhaust vent that results in overheating. A malfunctioning electrical circuit board, a weakened door catch, or a broken door strike can be the cause.
The belt break switch in your dryer is a device that turns off the dryer whilst in operation if the belt breaks or stops functioning properly for whatever reason. This switch varies in size, location, and complexity depending on your dryer.
The Benefits of Replacing a Dryer Heating Element
You may not even be able to use the dryer at all if the element isn't heating. Replacing it can restore your dryer's performance, making it a more cost-effective solution than buying a new appliance, given the dryer heating element cost.
As with other appliances, the 50% Rule applies: if your appliance is over 50% of its expected lifespan of 10 to 13 years, and it costs more than 50% of its replacement cost to repair it, it may be time to think about replacement.
As the drive belt wears, it can become loose, which can lead to squealing.
If you hear strange noises, these could be signs that the belt is stretching, has low tension, or is otherwise damaged. If you can visibly see that the belt has suffered some wear and tear, then you'll want to have the belt replaced.
Age: If your dryer is over 10 years old, it is likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Older dryers may not be as energy-efficient or safe as newer models.
Washer, 10-14 years, and Dryer, 10-13 years:
The life of a laundry machine is completely dependent on how often it's run.
For example, if your current dryer is more than 15 years old, it's probably best to replace it since this is about the time when most dryers reach the end of their serviceable lifespan (both gas and electric unit).
We also offer coverage through Lowe's Protection Plan for repairs for appliances, including refrigeration repairs for your freezers, refrigerators and other major appliances. Our professional installers can take care of your dishwasher, wall oven, cooktop, gas range, gas dryer and over-the-range microwave installation.
One of the most common reasons your dryer won't spin is because the drive belt is broken. To find out if this is the problem, open the dryer door, reach in, and attempt to turn the big circular tumbler—the drum—by hand. If it turns too easily, the belt has probably snapped and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion. In the world of dryer maintenance, the dryer belt plays a crucial role in ensuring your appliance's proper functioning. When faced with a broken or failing dryer belt, it's usually worth considering a replacement, especially if your dryer is in good condition otherwise.
While disassembling your dryer to swap the belt out may seem like a tough DIY gig, you'd be surprised how straightforward this is likely to be. If you've got a screwdriver, putty knife, and patience, you can pull this repair off no problem.