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TUMBLE DRYER FAULTS

Tumble Dryer Drum Not Turning

A non-turning drum is commonly caused by a broken belt, failed motor, seized roller, worn bearing, blocked drum or faulty start capacitor.

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Switch off and unplug before cleaning inside, removing panels or checking moving parts

Tumble dryers combine mains electricity, high heat, lint and rotating components. Stop using the appliance if it overheats, trips the electrics, smells burnt or makes grinding noises.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Broken drive belt The motor runs but the drum does not move.
Motor or capacitor fault The motor may hum without starting.
Seized roller or bearing The drum becomes difficult to turn.
Foreign object Items can jam between the drum and cabinet.
◫ Symptom variations Match the exact point in the drying cycle. ⌄
  • Motor hums
  • Drum turns by hand but not on cycle
  • No resistance when drum is turned
  • Burning smell
  • Scraping or grinding before failure
✓ Quick checks Simple checks before removing panels. ⌄
  1. Note when the fault appears.
  2. Clean all accessible lint filters.
  3. Check the load size and programme.
  4. Inspect visible vents, condenser parts and the power lead.
  5. Unplug before touching internal parts.
If airflow was the cause: performance should improve immediately.
If electrical or mechanical faults remain: stop and call an appliance engineer.
1 Step 1 — Switch off and test drum movement by hand Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

With the dryer unplugged, rotate the drum gently.

Success looks like: The drum moves smoothly.
Escalate when: Heavy resistance or grinding suggests a mechanical fault.
2 Step 2 — Listen during a short start attempt Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Reconnect only for a brief controlled test and note whether the motor hums.

Success looks like: The sound narrows the fault.
Escalate when: Stop immediately if there is burning smell or no movement.
3 Step 3 — Check for obvious trapped items Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Inspect the door opening and visible drum gap.

Success looks like: A simple obstruction is removed.
Escalate when: Internal access requires appliance dismantling.
⌁ Common causes explained Why tumble dryer faults develop. ⌄

A non-turning drum is commonly caused by a broken belt, failed motor, seized roller, worn bearing, blocked drum or faulty start capacitor.

Airflow and heat are the biggest clues. Poor airflow causes long drying and overheating, while belt, motor and bearing faults affect drum movement and noise.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Appliance-engineer checks and repair work. ⌄
  • Inspect drive belt and tensioner.
  • Test motor windings and start capacitor.
  • Inspect drum rollers and rear bearing.
  • Check idler pulley.
  • Verify control-board motor output.
▣ Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄
  • Drive belt
  • Motor
  • Start capacitor
  • Drum roller
  • Rear bearing
! When to call an appliance engineer Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄
  • The dryer trips the electrics.
  • The cabinet overheats or smells burnt.
  • The drum is seized, grinding or not turning.
  • Internal electrical testing is required.
  • The dryer must be dismantled.
  • The same fault returns after basic cleaning.
? Frequently asked questions Common tumble dryer questions. ⌄

Why does the dryer stop and restart after cooling?

Thermal protection may be operating because airflow is restricted or a motor is overheating.

Can lint cause a fire?

Yes. Filters, vents and condenser areas should be kept clean and the appliance should never be used while overheating.

Should I keep resetting the electrics?

No. Unplug the dryer and arrange fault testing.