Cleaning the Lint and Motor Pulley Replacement on a Whirlpool Dryer

I was recently called out to a Whirlpool dryer that hadn’t been cleaned in quite a while. Even though the client didn’t use it much, there was still a surprising amount of lint buildup. Additionally, they had noticed the dryer wasn’t working as well, with the belt wearing out quickly. After inspecting, I discovered that the motor pulley had become so sharp, it was cutting into the belt!

Checking for Lint Buildup

Despite minimal use over the last couple of years, there was a significant amount of lint inside the vent and drum. Lint buildup is common, even when dryers aren’t used daily. If left unchecked, it can reduce airflow, increase drying times, and even be a fire hazard.

Deep Cleaning the Lint System

I started by unplugging the dryer and removing the vent hose. I used a vacuum and vent brush to clear out all the lint from the vent system. I also cleaned the inside of the drum area, which had some lint buildup. This deep cleaning helped restore airflow, making the dryer run more efficiently.

Replacing the Motor Pulley and Rollers

Next, I checked the motor pulley and saw that it had become incredibly sharp—almost like a razor blade! This was cutting into the belt and causing wear. I replaced the worn-out motor pulley with a new, high-quality one to ensure smooth operation. While I was at it, I also replaced the rollers that help the drum spin. These parts had become worn, adding more strain on the dryer.

Testing the Dryer

Once everything was cleaned, the new pulley and rollers were in place, and the vent was clear, I ran a short cycle. The dryer worked like new—airflow was strong, drying times improved, and there were no more issues with the belt.

If you haven’t had your Whirlpool dryer cleaned or maintained in a while, now’s the time to schedule a service. A deep lint cleaning, along with replacing worn-out parts like the motor pulley and rollers, can restore your dryer’s efficiency, extend its lifespan, and prevent costly repairs in the future. Don’t wait—get your dryer in top shape today!