LG Dryer Stopped Spinning

If your LG dryer has stopped spinning, it can be frustrating and may indicate a problem with the appliance. Here are some common reasons why an LG dryer might stop spinning and how you can troubleshoot the issue:

1. LG Dryer Drive Belt

The drive belt is a long, slender belt that wraps around the dryer drum, a tension pulley, and the drive motor pulley. Over time, this belt can break due to normal wear and tear. When the belt is broken, the dryer won’t turn. To quickly check if the belt is broken, reach into the dryer and turn the drum by hand. If the drum spins effortlessly, it’s likely that the belt is broken. Examine the belt to confirm the breakage. If the belt is indeed broken, replace it.

2. LG Dryer Timer

A dryer drum that unexpectedly stops spinning could be due to a faulty timer, although this is rarely the case. Before replacing the timer, check the more commonly defective parts. If you’ve ruled out all other components and suspect the timer is at fault, use a multimeter and consult the wiring diagram to test it. If the timer is defective, replace it.

3. Incoming Power Problem

Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into the wall receptacle. A loose plug can intermittently supply power to the dryer, causing it to stop spinning during the cycle.

4. LG Dryer Blower Wheel

The blower wheel works with the drive motor to draw air into the dryer drum. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and become stuck in the blower wheel. Since the blower wheel is usually connected to the same drive motor shaft that drives the drum belt, an obstructed blower wheel can prevent the drum from spinning. To verify the blower wheel’s functionality, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the airflow. If the airflow is weak, inspect the blower wheel for obstructions. If there are no obstructions, attempt to rotate the blower wheel by hand. If the blower wheel wobbles as it turns, replace it.

5. LG Dryer Idler Pulley

The dryer’s idler pulley applies tension to the drive belt, enabling it to rotate the drum during operation. A defective idler pulley can cause the dryer drum to stop spinning. Inspect the idler pulley to ensure it rotates freely on the shaft. If the idler pulley is stuck, worn, or damaged, we recommend replacing both the drum drive belt and the idler pulley.

6. LG Dryer Drive Motor

The drive motor rotates the drum and the blower wheel to exhaust the air. If the dryer runs, stops, and then restarts, this likely indicates the motor is overheating, causing the dryer to shut off until the motor cools down. First, remove the belt from the motor and check the blower wheel to ensure it is unobstructed. Next, with the belt removed, attempt to rotate the drum manually. If the drum does not turn freely, identify the cause of the drum binding. If the drum rotates smoothly, and the blower wheel is clear of obstructions, it’s possible that the drive motor is defective. If you suspect the motor is the issue, replace it.

7. LG Dryer Heating Element

A dryer’s heating element is responsible for heating the air circulated through the dryer drum. If the heating element shorts out, it may trip the thermal fuse, often installed on the element. This can cause the dryer to stop spinning mid-cycle.

8. LG Dryer Control Board

The control board of the dryer regulates the voltage sent to all electrical components. A defective control board may interrupt the voltage to the drive motor, causing the drum to stop spinning unexpectedly. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or shorted components. You can also use a multimeter to test for voltage reaching the drive motor after reviewing the dryer’s wiring diagram.

9. LG Dryer Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device designed to protect the dryer from overheating. The fuse is usually located on the blower housing or at the dryer’s heat source, such as the heating element in electric dryers or at the burner in gas models. The fuse should provide continuity when in good condition, meaning it has a continuous electrical path through it. If the dryer overheats, the fuse will blow, interrupting the voltage to the heating element or burner. This will also stop the dryer drum from spinning. A multimeter can be used to test the thermal fuse for electrical continuity. Keep in mind that a blown thermal fuse indicates a restricted exhaust vent from the dryer to the outside. Always check the dryer venting when replacing a blown thermal fuse.

10. LG Dryer Maintenance Kit

A non-spinning dryer drum is often due to a broken drum belt or a defective idler pulley or drum roller. If you notice multiple components that appear worn or damaged, you can consider purchasing a dryer maintenance kit if it is applicable to your dryer model. This kit typically includes all these components to address the problem.

11. LG Dryer Moisture Sensor

The moisture sensor monitors the moisture level in the clothing and sends a signal to the control board when the clothes are dry. If the moisture sensor is malfunctioning, it may inaccurately report that the clothing is sufficiently dry, causing the drum to stop spinning. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the moisture sensor, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all other components are functioning properly, then replace the moisture sensor.