What To Know
- Touch one probe of the ohm meter to one of the motor terminals and the other probe to the other terminal.
- If the ohm meter reads a low resistance, but the dryer motor is still not working, there may be another problem, such as a faulty capacitor or switch.
- Testing a dryer motor with an ohm meter is a relatively simple procedure that can help you troubleshoot a common cause of dryer failure.
When your dryer motor stops working, it can be a frustrating experience. But before you call a repair technician, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the problem yourself. One of the most common causes of dryer motor failure is a faulty motor winding. You can use an ohm meter to test the motor winding for continuity.
What You’ll Need
- Ohm meter
- Screwdriver
- Safety glasses
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Safety First: Before you begin, be sure to unplug the dryer from the power outlet and wear safety glasses.
2. Remove the Back Panel: Locate the screws holding the back panel of the dryer in place and remove them. Carefully lift the back panel off the dryer.
3. Locate the Motor: The motor is typically located at the bottom of the dryer, behind the drum. It is usually a large, cylindrical object with wires connected to it.
4. Disconnect the Wires: Use a screwdriver to disconnect the wires from the motor terminals. Be careful not to touch the bare wires, as they can still be energized.
5. Set the Ohm Meter: Set the ohm meter to the lowest resistance setting, typically around 200 ohms.
6. Test the Motor Winding: Touch one probe of the ohm meter to one of the motor terminals and the other probe to the other terminal. The ohm meter should read a low resistance, typically around 1-5 ohms. If the ohm meter reads infinity, it indicates that the motor winding is open and needs to be replaced.
7. Reassemble the Dryer: If the motor winding tests good, reassemble the dryer in reverse order. Connect the wires to the motor terminals, replace the back panel, and plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If the ohm meter reads infinity, it indicates that the motor winding is open and needs to be replaced.
- If the ohm meter reads a low resistance, but the dryer motor is still not working, there may be another problem, such as a faulty capacitor or switch.
- If you are not comfortable testing the motor winding yourself, call a qualified appliance repair technician.
Conclusion
Testing a dryer motor with an ohm meter is a relatively simple procedure that can help you troubleshoot a common cause of dryer failure. By following these steps, you can save yourself time and money by repairing the dryer yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I test my dryer motor?
It is not necessary to test your dryer motor regularly unless you are experiencing problems with it. If you notice that your dryer is not drying clothes as efficiently as it used to, or if it is making unusual noises, you may want to test the motor.
Can I use a multimeter to test a dryer motor?
Yes, you can use a multimeter to test a dryer motor. Set the multimeter to the lowest resistance setting and touch the probes to the motor terminals. The multimeter should read a low resistance, typically around 1-5 ohms. If the multimeter reads infinity, it indicates that the motor winding is open and needs to be replaced.
How much does it cost to replace a dryer motor?
The cost to replace a dryer motor can vary depending on the make and model of your dryer. However, you can expect to pay around $100-$200 for a new motor.
