Dryers depend on a strong belt to turn the drum and keep clothes moving. When this part breaks or wears down, the whole machine can stop working the way it should. We often see belt failures as one of the main reasons people reach out to us. By understanding the most common issues and how we replace them, you can get a clear idea of what is going on with your dryer and when to call for help.
Why Dryer Belts Fail
Sometimes the problem starts with age. Over time, belts lose flexibility and crack. We also see belts fray when lint or small debris builds up around the drum. Another cause is constant tension, which stretches the belt until it slips. Poor alignment of pulleys or rollers can also lead to uneven wear. Each of these problems leaves signs that are easy to miss at first, such as squealing noises or clothes taking longer to dry.
When we look at a broken dryer, we start with a close inspection of the belt and rollers. Our team checks for cracks, fraying, or shiny spots that show slipping. Once we know why the belt failed, we can make sure the replacement lasts longer. If your unit has stopped tumbling, it is worth considering dryer repair in Calgary before it leads to bigger problems.
Signs the Belt Needs Replacement
Unusual sounds often come first. A squeak or thump when the drum starts can mean the belt is slipping. Another common sign is the drum failing to spin even though the motor is still running. We also hear from people who notice clothes not drying evenly, which happens when the belt loses grip and rotation slows.
When you suspect the belt, unplugging the dryer and spinning the drum by hand is a simple check. If it moves too freely or feels loose, the belt may have snapped. A burning smell can also signal the belt is rubbing against parts where it should not. Because heat and friction wear belts quickly, these early warnings matter. At Fast Appliance Repair, we encourage owners to pay attention to small changes before they turn into costly failures.
How We Replace Worn Belts
The process always begins with safety. We disconnect the power and move the dryer into a space where we can open the panels. Once inside, we release tension from the idler pulley and remove the damaged belt. The drum is lifted slightly so we can slide the new belt into place. We then wrap it around the motor pulley and adjust the idler to restore proper tension.
After that, we test the drum by spinning it by hand before powering the machine back on. If everything moves smoothly, we reassemble the panels and run a short cycle to confirm the repair. We also check rollers and pulleys at the same time since worn support parts can shorten the life of a new belt. For people searching for reliable appliance repair Calgary, this step-by-step replacement is one of the most common fixes we perform.
Preventing Future Belt Failures
We believe prevention saves time and money. Keeping the dryer vent clear of lint reduces strain on the drum and belt. Checking and cleaning the lint trap after every load is simple but effective. We also suggest avoiding overloading, since heavy loads stretch the belt more than normal use.
It also helps to schedule routine service. During a tune up, we can spot early signs of wear and adjust parts before failure occurs. If your dryer is older, replacing belts before they break can stop bigger issues. Our team at Fast Appliance Repair provides these checks so you don’t have to wait until the machine fails completely. If you need help right away, you can contact us to arrange a visit.
FAQs
Why does my dryer stop spinning even though it still makes noise?
This often means the motor is running but the belt has snapped. Without the belt, the drum cannot turn even though power reaches the motor.
Can I replace a dryer belt on my own?
Yes, but it can be tricky without the right tools. Opening panels and resetting the belt around pulleys takes care and some models are harder to work on than others.
How long does a dryer belt usually last?
Most belts last between eight and ten years, depending on use. Heavy loads and poor maintenance can shorten that time.
Are burning smells always caused by belt issues?
Not always. Belts can cause burning smells when they slip or rub, but clogged vents or failing motors can also be the source.
Should I replace other parts when changing the belt?
It is a good idea to check pulleys and rollers. If they are worn, replacing them at the same time can prevent new belts from wearing out too quickly.