How to Fix a Blower on a Clothes Dryer

If your clothes dryer is not adequately drying your clothes or if the dryer runs for too long, the problem may be with the blower. Accessing the blower will vary since a number of models are available on the market. However, the majority of blowers can be found directly behind the front panel of the dryer. Maintaining the vitality of a dryer is essential since it helps to reduce the potential pull of energy the machine creates. Replacing the blower on the dryer will certainly add years of use.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Replacement dryer blower
• Socket set

Instructions

1. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet. Pull the dryer 2 to 3 feet away from the wall to provide the work space for disassembling the dryer.

2. Locate the two screws typically found toward the bottom on the front panel of the dryer. The screws secure the front panel to the dryer cabinet. Remove the screws by turning them counterclockwise with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

3. Pull the front off the dryer gently. Typically, the front of the dryer has an additional two snap clips providing stability to the appliance.

4. Disconnect the wires from the door switch located on the front of the dryer cabinet. To disconnect the wires, pull the wire ends from the door switch with your fingers. Place the front panel off to the side, out of your way.

5. 

   This is what a Phillips-head screwdriver looks like.

   Remove the shroud that is surrounding the dryer drum by locating the two screws on either side that hold the shroud to the front of the side panels. Turn the screws counterclockwise with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Set the shroud aside.

6. Locate the blower assembly below the drum of the dryer cabinet. Look for the wires from the thermistor on the blower assembly, and disconnect them by hand. Find the bolt in the center of the blower wheel, and remove the bolt with a socket wrench. Identify the three screws that attach to the blower wheel, then remove them by turning the screws counterclockwise with the Phillips-head screwdriver.

7. Remove the blower housing and wheel from the dryer. Insert the new blower wheel into the housing. Reattach the wires from the thermistor to the blower assembly by hand.

8. Reattach the three screws on the blower wheel by turning them clockwise with the Phillips-head screw driver. Reattach the blower wheel bolt to the center of the wheel.

9. Secure the shroud back into position around the dryer drum. Reattach the two screws on either side by turning them clockwise.

10. Reconnect the wires from the door switch located on the front of the dryer cabinet with your fingers. Gently push the front of the dryer cabinet back into the clips providing stability to the front of the dryer panel.

11. Reattach the two screws to the front panel by turning them clockwise. Push the dryer back to the original location and plug it in for use.

Tips & Warnings

• A dryer blower can be purchased at any appliance repair store.

• Make sure to unplug the appliance before making repairs.

References

• Service Matters: Dryer Service Manual
• Appliance Aid: Take Apart Dryer Cabinet