Is your dryer motor kaput? learn the easy way to diagnose and fix it
What To Know
- If the multimeter reads zero ohms during the ground test, there is a ground fault in the motor.
- Testing an electric dryer motor is a straightforward process that can help you determine if the motor is the cause of your dryer’s malfunction.
- It is not recommended to test the motor without removing it as it can be difficult to access the terminals and ensure accurate readings.
When your dryer stops spinning, it can be a frustrating experience. One of the potential culprits is a faulty motor. Testing the motor can help you determine if it needs to be replaced or if there’s another issue. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of testing an electric dryer motor.
Safety Precautions
Before you begin testing, ensure you take the necessary safety precautions:
- Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
- Allow the dryer to cool down completely.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses for protection.
Tools and Materials
To test the motor, you’ll need the following:
- Multimeter
- Screwdriver
- Wire strippers
Step-by-Step Testing Procedure
1. Disconnect the Wires:
- Remove the back panel of the dryer.
- Locate the motor and disconnect all the wires connected to it.
2. Check Continuity:
- Set your multimeter to the ohms setting.
- Touch the probes to the terminals of the motor.
- If the multimeter reads zero ohms, there is continuity, indicating that the motor is not faulty.
- If the multimeter reads infinite ohms, there is no continuity, indicating a possible fault in the motor.
3. Test for Ground:
- Set your multimeter to the ohms setting.
- Touch one probe to the motor’s housing and the other probe to each of the terminals.
- If the multimeter reads zero ohms, there is a ground fault in the motor.
- If the multimeter reads infinite ohms, there is no ground fault.
4. Check Resistance:
- Set your multimeter to the ohms setting.
- Touch the probes to the two terminals of the motor.
- The resistance should be within the specified range for your specific dryer model. You can find this information in the dryer’s user manual or online.
5. Test for Voltage:
- Set your multimeter to the volts setting.
- Connect one probe to the power cord and the other probe to the motor’s terminals.
- Turn on the power and check if the multimeter reads the correct voltage for your dryer model.
Troubleshooting
- No Continuity: If the multimeter reads infinite ohms during the continuity test, the motor may be faulty and need to be replaced.
- Ground Fault: If the multimeter reads zero ohms during the ground test, there is a ground fault in the motor. This can be caused by damaged insulation or a short circuit.
- Low Resistance: If the resistance reading is significantly lower than the specified range, the motor may be shorted and need to be replaced.
- High Resistance: If the resistance reading is significantly higher than the specified range, there may be a break in the motor’s windings. This can also require a motor replacement.
Takeaways: Uncovering the Truth
Testing an electric dryer motor is a straightforward process that can help you determine if the motor is the cause of your dryer’s malfunction. By following these steps and troubleshooting any issues you encounter, you can restore your dryer to its spinning glory.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Can I test the motor without removing it from the dryer?
A: It is not recommended to test the motor without removing it as it can be difficult to access the terminals and ensure accurate readings.
Q: What should I do if I find a fault in the motor?
A: If you find a fault in the motor, you will likely need to replace it. Contact a qualified appliance repair technician to complete the replacement.
Q: How often should I test the dryer motor?
A: Regular testing is not necessary unless you experience problems with your dryer. However, if you have an older dryer, testing the motor every few years can help prevent unexpected breakdowns.
