Tumble Dryer Drum Not Spinning

Broken or Worn Drive Belt

The most common cause. The drive belt wraps around the drum and connects it to the motor. If it has snapped or stretched it will no longer turn the drum. The motor will run normally but the drum will remain stationary.

Overloaded Drum

An excessively heavy load can prevent the motor from generating enough torque to turn the drum. The drum should never be more than two thirds full to allow laundry to tumble freely.

Worn Motor Bearings or Faulty Motor

If the motor has seized or failed, the drum will not turn regardless of the condition of the belt. Motor faults require professional diagnosis and replacement.

Faulty Door Switch

The dryer will not run if the door switch does not register the door as closed. A faulty door switch can cause the drum to stop or fail to start even when the door appears properly shut.

Worn Drum Support Rollers or Glides

The drum rests on support rollers or glides at the rear and front. If these are worn the drum becomes increasingly stiff and difficult to turn, eventually seizing completely. Requires professional replacement.

Check the Load Size

Remove some items from the drum and try running the cycle with a lighter load. The drum should be no more than two thirds full to allow laundry to tumble freely.

Check the Door is Fully Closed

Open and firmly reclose the door, ensuring it latches correctly. Try restarting the cycle — the dryer will not run unless the door switch is fully engaged.

Listen for the Motor

Start the cycle and listen. Motor running but drum stationary points to a broken drive belt. No motor sound at all points to a motor or circuit fault. Both require professional repair.

Turn the Drum by Hand

With the machine unplugged, try turning the drum by hand. If it turns freely, the belt has likely broken. If it is stiff or seized, there may be a mechanical fault with the drum support or motor.

Reset the Machine

Unplug the appliance from the mains and wait at least two minutes. Plug back in and retry the cycle. This can clear temporary electronic faults preventing the drum from starting.