We’ve all been there: opening up the dryer door, expecting a bundle of warm, dry clothes, only to find them damp and cold. This sudden realization that your Whirlpool dryer stopped spinning can be frustrating. But, you’re not alone, and most of these issues are fixable. Let’s dive into the most common culprits behind a Whirlpool dryer that won’t spin and offer guidance on how to address them.
How to Troubleshoot Why Your Whirlpool Dryer Stopped Spinning
There are several reasons why a Whirlpool dryer might have stopped spinning. Let’s explore them step-by-step.
No Power to the Dryer
It’s astonishing how often the simplest solutions escape us. A dryer that isn’t receiving power might not necessarily be broken. Instead, it could be due to a few very basic issues that are easy to overlook.
Unplugged: It might sound obvious, but occasionally, dryers get accidentally unplugged. Check to make sure yours is securely connected.
Damaged Cord: Over time, the power cord can fray or get damaged. Inspect the cord for any visible signs of wear and tear.
Tripped Circuit Breaker: Another common issue is a tripped circuit breaker. Head to your home’s circuit panel and ensure the breaker for your dryer hasn’t been tripped.
To avoid these in the future, ensure your dryer’s location keeps the plug secure and inspect the cord occasionally for wear.
Need to Change Dryer Settings
Modern dryers come with an array of settings, and sometimes the wrong one can be inadvertently selected. Or, there could be an error code displayed that’s affecting its function.
Delay Start: This feature delays the start of the drying cycle. Ensure it’s not accidentally set.
Control Lock: Some models have a control lock to prevent unintentional operation. If your controls aren’t responding, this might be the reason.
Error Codes: When displayed, refer to the manufacturer’s manual or website to understand the problem and steps for rectification.
Being familiar with your dryer’s settings can prevent confusion and save you from potential headaches.
Dryer Door Won’t Latch Shut
A dryer’s door latch is a safety feature. If the door isn’t securely shut, the dryer won’t operate to prevent any hazards. There could be a few reasons behind this.
Clothes Obstruction: Sometimes, clothes can jut out, preventing the door from closing properly. Re-adjust the clothes inside to ensure a snug fit.
Damaged Door Latch: Over time, the latch mechanism can wear out or get damaged, especially if the door is frequently slammed.
To keep your door latch in good condition, ensure you’re not overstuffing the dryer and always close the door gently.
Dryer Parts Malfunction
Like all machines, parts in a dryer can wear out over time, especially with frequent use. Some components, when malfunctioning, can directly cause the drum to stop spinning.
Drive Belt Issues: A common issue is a broken or slackened drive belt. If your Whirlpool dryer belt is broken, it will need replacement.
Idler Pulley & Drum Rollers: These components help the drum spin smoothly. If they malfunction, you’ll likely hear unusual noises. They might require lubrication or replacement.
Drive Motor Problems: The motor powers the drum’s rotation. If it’s malfunctioning, the drum won’t spin. Motors can sometimes overheat and might need a cooldown period or, in rare cases, a replacement.
Routine maintenance, like cleaning the lint trap and ensuring the dryer isn’t overloaded, can help prolong the lifespan of these components.
If after trying all these solutions, you find your Whirlpool dryer still won’t spin, consider calling in the experts. Service Care offers professional dryer repair services that can get your machine up and running in no time.
