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lg dryer not spinning

6 Troubleshooting Tips for an LG Dryer Not Spinning

A dryer that won’t tumble isn’t capable of much drying, leaving laundry in a wet pile. Why is my LG dryer not spinning? The Control Lock setting may be enabled, locking any dryer function. Try these LG dryer troubleshooting tips to restore its tumbling action and resume your laundry routine.

LG Dryer Not Spinning? This Could Be Why…

Sometimes a minor adjustment or DIY fix can resolve an LG dryer not spinning, while part malfunctions may call for a professional repair. Troubleshoot the problem with these common causes and solutions.

Insufficient Power

Before assuming a part malfunction, first ensure that your dryer is receiving sufficient electrical power. Make sure it’s properly plugged into a functioning outlet and the cord is free of damage. Check your home’s circuit breaker box for tripped breakers and reset any as needed. Lastly, never use an extension cord to power your dryer; it can’t safely transmit the voltage required, creating surges that cut off power.

If the dryer’s power appears sufficient, a hard reset may be necessary to resume function.

Follow these steps to perform an LG dryer reset:

  • Unplug the dryer and turn off its circuit breaker.
  • Press and hold the POWER/START button for 5 seconds.
  • Press and hold the PLAY/PAUSE button for 5 seconds.
  • Plug the dryer back in, turn the circuit breaker on and try starting the dryer again.

Dryer Settings Issue

If the LG dryer Child Lock setting was accidentally enabled, you’ll find the dryer not starting or spinning. This setting locks all dryer functions to prevent an unintentional start. When the Child Lock setting is enabled, the code CL usually appears on the display panel.

To disable this feature, press and hold the Child Lock button for 3 seconds. The CL code should disappear and the dryer should resume all functions. If a different error code is showing on the display panel, it may be indicating another issue that’s preventing the dryer from spinning. Refer to your user manual to determine the meaning of the code.

lg dryer troubleshooting
Image from LG

Broken Dryer Door Switch

When the dryer door closes, the door switch sends an electrical signal to the control panel so a drying cycle can start.  As a safety precaution, an LG dryer won’t spin if the door switch doesn’t indicate that the door is shut. If the switch breaks, it won’t signal the control panel, even if the door is closed, and the dryer won’t start or spin.

If the switch appears damaged or fails multimeter testing with a lack of continuity, it must be replaced.

Dryer Belt Is Worn Out

The dryer belt rotates the dryer drum via two pulleys that provide tension and connection to the dryer’s motor. Over time, the belt can fray, rip or tear, leaving it unable to turn the drum. How can you tell if the dryer belt is worn out? When the drum spins easily by hand, the belt is likely stretched out or broken. If a visual inspection confirms damage, an LG dryer belt replacement is necessary to resume function.

lg dryer won't spin

Defective Idler Pulley

A dryer’s idler pulley provides tension for the drive belt so it can properly rotate the drum. When the pulley breaks, the belt will loosen and won’t have the tension it needs to spin the drum. If the dryer makes noise that sounds like squealing or squeaking as it tries to spin, the idler pulley is likely defective.

Inspect the idler pulley assembly for cracks, making sure it can turn freely and maintain tension with the drive belt. If it appears damaged or can no longer provide tension for the belt, it must be replaced.

Faulty Drive Motor

The drive motor turns the dryer drum and rotates the blower wheel so warm air can exit the dryer. If the motor fails, it won’t perform these essential functions that allow the dryer to spin and expel air.

If you suspect a faulty drive motor is responsible for your LG dryer not spinning, a dryer repair service should perform an assessment.  Sometimes, a blower wheel obstruction can appear like a motor failure. A professional technician can inspect the blower wheel for blockages, assess the motor, and perform a replacement if needed.

Callahan’s Appliance technicians can fix an LG dryer not spinning or any other malfunction. Schedule your expert service today!

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