Laundry day is anything but routine when your dryer doesn’t spin, leaving a pile of wet clothes behind. What’s the most common reason for a GE dryer not spinning? A broken drive belt is often the case. The belt will need to be replaced for the dryer to spin properly. Determine why your GE dryer stopped spinning with these tips and solutions.
GE Dryer Stopped Spinning? This Could Be Why
While a malfunction is likely responsible for a GE dryer not spinning, that doesn’t mean it can’t be fixed. With some DIY skills or a professional repair, your dryer can continue to operate smoothly. Wondering how to reset GE dryer once the problem is solved? Turning it off, then on again or pressing the reset button on the dryer plug should reset the dryer after these troubleshooting tips.
#1. Damaged Drive Belt
A dryer’s drive belt is a long rubber belt that wraps around the dryer drum between two pulleys. The belt helps the drum turn as it’s powered by the drum motor. Over time, the drive belt can become worn and suffer damage like cracks and breakage. It can also stretch and loosen from its pulleys. When these instances occur, the belt can no longer support the drum and it won’t spin.
If the dryer drum spins freely when turned by hand, the belt has likely broken or become loose. Once inspection confirms that it’s damaged or worn, a GE dryer belt replacement is necessary.
#2. Faulty Idler Pulley
The idler pulley is one of the pulleys that secures the drive belt, enabling the dryer drum to spin. If one of the idler pulley’s components breaks or the grooves that hold the belt in place become worn, the drum won’t spin properly. How can you tell if the idler pulley is faulty? You may find your GE dryer stopped spinning, won’t spin smoothly or makes a loud squeaking sound when operating.
Inspect the idler pulley for signs of damage. If it appears worn or broken, it should be replaced.
#3. Worn Drum Rollers
Drum rollers are felt or rubber-covered wheels that support the weight of the dryer drum, enabling it to run smoothly. They’re typically located in the front and rear end of the drum. These components are also subject to wear and tear, specifically if the rubber or felt becomes worn down.
Here’s how to tell if the drum rollers are worn:
- Tumble dryer not spinning at all
- Dryer makes loud thumping noise when spinning
- Dryer drum does not move freely when drive belt is removed
If the drum rollers show visible signs of wear, they need to be replaced. Even if just one roller appears worn, it’s best to replace all of them at once.
#4. Failed Dryer Motor
Are the lights on but your GE dryer stopped spinning? Is your dryer not making any noise at all? If so, the dryer motor has likely failed. Since the motor creates the motion that spins the dryer drum, the dryer can’t spin if the motor doesn’t work. A failed motor cannot be repaired and needs to be replaced.
This job is not only complex but requires additional troubleshooting of other components before confirming that a replacement is needed. Consequently, we recommend that a professional service assess the dryer motor and perform a replacement if necessary.
The technicians at Mid America Service can address any dryer repair. If your GE dryer stopped spinning or suffered any malfunction, schedule your service today!
