Dryers are essential appliances in our homes, and when they break down, our daily routines can be disrupted. One of the most common issues that can affect the functionality of a dryer is a broken or damaged dryer belt.
A faulty dryer belt can prevent the drum from rotating, causing your dryer to stop working altogether. Repairing or replacing a broken dryer belt may cost around $100 to $200 depending on its type, age, and other factors.
In this article, we will discuss the following:
- Common signs that indicate your dryer belt needs a repair
- The reasons why dryer belts break
- How much it costs to replace a dryer belt
- When to call in a professional technician for appliance repair
Knowing these important details can help you avoid expensive repairs or replacements and decide whether or not your dryer is worth repairing. Let’s dive in!
Most Common Problems That Tell Your Dryer Belts Needs An Easy Fix
There are several common problems that can indicate that your dryer belt needs a quick fix. These include:
Dryer won’t start
If you press the start button but the dryer won’t start, it could be a sign that the belt is broken. The motor will still run, but without the belt, the drum spins get interrupted. Check the belt for any signs of damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
Dryer does not complete a drying cycle
If your dryer takes longer than usual to dry your clothes, it could be a sign that the belt is slipping or not spinning properly. Check the belt for any signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary.
Damaged dryer belt
Check the belt for any visible signs of wear or damage, such as cracks, fraying or stretching. If any of these signs are present, it’s best to replace the belt promptly.
Excessive vibrations
If you feel excessive vibrations when using your dryer, it could be a sign that the dryer belt is worn out or loose. This can also cause the drum to make a lot of noise while the dryer ranges spinning.
Burning smell
A worn-out belt can cause a burning smell due to heat and friction with the dryer drum. If you notice any burning smells coming from the dryer, it’s best to turn it off and check the drum belt for wear.
Dryer drum won’t rotate
A broken belt will prevent the drum from rotating. If you hear the dryer motor running but the drum isn’t moving, it’s likely that the belt has snapped.
Aging dryer
As with any appliance, your dryer and its components have a lifespan. If your dryer is over 5 years old and you haven’t replaced the belt yet, it’s best to do so as a preventative measure.
Reasons Why Your Dryer Belts Break
A dryer belt is responsible for rotating the drum in a dryer. When the belt breaks, the dryer will no longer work properly. There are several reasons why a dryer belt may break.
Overuse
Frequent use of the dryer can cause the belt to wear out more quickly. If you tend to use your dryer multiple times a day, the belt may need to be replaced sooner than if you only use it a few times a week.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Failing to maintain the dryer by cleaning it regularly can cause problems with the belt. Dust and dirt from clothes dryers can accumulate and cause the belt to snap.
Improper Installation
If the dryer brands new belt is not installed correctly, it may break prematurely. Make sure to follow the owner’s manual carefully when installing the dryer belt.
Wrong Drive Belt Size
Using a dryer belt that is not the correct size for your dryer can cause it to break. Ensure that you have the right size belt before replacing it.
Worn Out Idler Pulley System
Over time, the idler pulley, which keeps the belt tight, may become worn out. This can cause the belt to slip, become loose, and ultimately break.
Know How Much Does It Cost to Replace Your Driver Belt
The cost to replace a dryer belt can vary depending on several factors such as your location, the make and model of your dryer, and the labor costs of the repairman.
On average, the cost of the dryer belt ranges between $10 to $30. the repair company However, adding in labor costs and other miscellaneous charges can bring the total cost of the repair to around $100 or more.
Other than your dryer belt, knowing the average dryer repair cost for some parts that may affect the overall life expectancy performance of your dryer is imperative. Here is the breakdown of those average repair costs:
Average Cost to repair a Dryer by Parts
On average, replacement parts for a dryer can cost between $10 to $100, with some more specialized parts costing a price of upwards of $200 or more.
- Dryer belt is $100 – $200
- Dryer heating element is $150 –$250
- Drum is $150 – $500
- Bearing is $75 – $150
- Roller is $50 – $100
- Timer is $50 – $100
- Dryer door is $50 – $100
- Dryer motor is $150 – $250
There are also other components cost that you should consider such as:
- Thermal fuse is $80 – $130
- Thermostat is $100 – $260
- Coil is $150 – $300
- Clogged vents cost to repair at $75 – $150
- Door switch is $50 – $150
- Filter is $50 – $75
Average Cost to repair a Dryer by Type
When it comes to repairing a dryer, the cost can vary depending on the type of dryer that you have. Typically, electric dryers are easier and less expensive to repair than gas dryers. Here’s a breakdown of the average cost to repair a dryer by type new dryer:
- Electric dryer repair cost is around $100 to $400
- Gas dryer repair cost ranges around $50 to $100
Call A Professional Technician for Appliance Repair!
When some of dryer repairs can be fix on your own, most dryer repairs require a professional technician to handle this tricky job. Attempting to repair complex issues on your own can be dangerous, and can result in more costly repairs down the line.
A professional technician can diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently, and the technicians will have the necessary tools to complete repairs safely. Don’t hesitate to call a professional if you’re unsure of how to proceed with the repair of your dryer or other appliances.
