About Me

New Windows: They Saved My Bank Account

I have to admit that I am very frugal, but I have to be with my large family. When heating and air-conditioning bills were just becoming too much to bear, I finally caved in and bought new windows that I was told were more energy-efficient. They weren't as expensive as I thought they would be, which was great news. I had them installed just before winter began, and I received the lowest heating bill for the month of November that I had received in years! I was so happy that I had those windows installed, especially after being so hesitant to spend the cash on them. I created this blog to help other frugal people like me realize that sometimes spending money on home improvements really does pay off in the long run! I am now looking into new home insulation to save even more cash!

Tags

New Windows: They Saved My Bank Account

How To Repair A Dryer Belt

by Michelle Davidson

A common problem with a clothes dryer is the drive belt either slips or breaks. This is a repair that normally needs only hand tools. Repairing it yourself can save money and takes only a couple hours of time.

1. Find the brand and model number from the manufacturers tag. It might be easiest to take a picture with your cell phone of the entire tag in case the appliance parts supplier needs more information. The user's manual that came with the dryer may identify the model as well.

2. You can now order parts from the manufacturer or from an appliance parts company online, or find a local appliance parts supplier. Once you have the new belt, you are ready to begin the repair.

3. The tools necessary are likely to be a Philips type screwdriver, a flat bit screw driver, a pair of pliers, a large flat bit screwdriver or flat pry bar and either a ¼" or 5/16" nut driver. You may also want a yardstick to prop up the top of the dryer as you are working. A second person nearby may be useful when two hands are not enough.

4. First, disconnect the dryer from electrical power by unplugging the cord from the socket. If it is a gas dryer, you should not attempt to disconnect the gas line, but close the valve that is near the dryer. Disconnect the dryer vent pipe. Now, pull the dryer far enough away from the wall and other objects that you can work comfortably.

5. Open the top of the dryer. Most dryers open from the front with a hinge at the rear. You may have to remove screws, often through the dryer vent. Now carefully pry to pop the front of the top loose from the spring clips. You may need to disconnect the door switch wire to open it fully. Prop it open to the rear.

6. Take the front of the dryer off. Pull straight up. If it will not slide easily, remove screws along the bottom of the panel. Hold the drum, pull the front of the dryer up and remove it from the dryer and set it aside. Lower the drum. You might need to use a block to prop it. Pull the drum out through the front of the dryer. Now is a good time to remove any old lint.

7. Install the new belt around the drum in the same position it was before. You should see a mark made by the old belt. Loop the belt around the drive pulley and tensioner.

8. Replace the front panel. Hold the drum and slide the front of the dryer over the opening of the drum, making sure the felt seal is not damaged. A second person may come in handy for this. Now slide it back down in place. Replace any screws. Check that the dryer turns freely.

9. Replace the top of the dryer and any screws that you removed. Reconnect the dryer vent, and move it back in place. Plug it in, and test to be certain it works. If not, check that you reconnected the door switch and try again. You should now have a working dryer.

If you need help along the way or find that this DIY repair is too complicated for you, call an appliance repair service, like Appliance Tech Repair LLC by Frank Lecato

Share