Dryers
Dryer won't start, or starts but the drum doesn't turn
Two different faults with similar symptoms. A dryer that does nothing is usually power, the door switch or a fuse. A dryer that hums or runs with a still drum is usually the belt or the motor.
- Proudly CanadianOttawa-based team
- BBB accreditedRepairWell, our operator
- 15+ yearsof technician experience
- Insured technicianslicensed for gas work
- Satisfaction guaranteed90-day warranty on replaced parts
- Free diagnosticwhen you go ahead with the repair
Safe checks before you book
- Power and breaker. Check the plug and reset the breaker fully off and on.
- Door switch. Open and close the door firmly. Listen for the click of the switch.
- Child lock and start button. Many electronic dryers have a control lock, and some need the start button held for a couple of seconds.
- Turn the drum by hand. With the dryer unplugged, a drum that spins freely with no resistance usually has a broken belt.
Unplug first. Switch off power (and close the water or gas supply where it applies) before looking behind or inside an appliance. If anything feels unsafe, stop and call.
What usually causes it
| Drive belt | A broken belt lets the motor run while the drum stays still. A common repair. |
|---|---|
| Idler pulley or drum rollers | Worn parts that squeal or thump before the dryer stops turning. |
| Thermal fuse | On many dryers, a blown thermal fuse stops the motor too, not only the heat. |
| Door switch, motor or control | Less common, and found by testing on the visit. |
When to stop and call
A humming motor with a drum that won't move. Switch it off: a stalled motor overheats.
What the visit costs
The diagnostic is free when you approve the repair and it's completed. You get the cause, the parts, labour and total in writing before any work. If you don't go ahead, it's $89 + tax for a home electric appliance, or $149 + tax for a gas appliance.
Repairs that fix this
Dryer belt replacementThe belt wraps around the drum and connects it to the motor. Without it the motor runs but the drum…Dryer idler pulley replacementThe idler pulley keeps tension on the belt so it grips the motor…Dryer motor replacementThe motor turns the drum and, on most dryers, the blower fan that moves…Dryer door switch and catch repairThe door switch tells the control the door is closed; the catch holds the door…