The belt of your washing machine allows it to run a thorough cycle. Like any other part of your washer, your washing machine belt requires specific attention and care to stay in shape. Whether it’s the passage of time, or extensive wear and tear, there’s a good chance that you’ll find yourself with a broken washing machine belt. Question is, how to tell if your washing machine belt needs replacing? Read this blog to learn the answer to this question and how to replace your washing machine belt.
How To Tell If Your Washing Machine Belt Needs Replacing: The Signs
To determine if your washing machine belt needs replacing, be on the lookout for some key signs. The most prominent sign that a belt needs replacing is if there is a strange squealing noise coming from your washing machine during a cycle. This means that the belt is loose or broken. Two more signs to look out for are the smell of burning rubber and any indication that the spinning cycle is becoming more erratic than usual. If you notice these three things, it’s time to replace your washing machine belt.
How To Tell If Your Washing Machine Belt Needs Replacing: The Verification
If any of the signs described above are persistent, then you want to go the extra mile with how to tell if your washing machine belt needs replacing by actually checking the belt. The best way to verify if your washing machine belt needs replacing is to run a normal wash cycle. During this cycle, pay attention to whether or not the water agitates or if the washer spins if it does pump out water. If the water isn’t agitating or the washer isn’t spinning, you can safely assume you have a broken washing machine belt.
How To Replace Your Washing Machine Belt
Now that you know how to tell if your washing machine belt needs replacing, it’s time to go over how to replace it. Luckily, replacing your washing machine belt is a fairly simple process that can be completed by anyone. Please keep in mind that you’ll still need to consult a user manual since the location of key parts depends on whether your not your washer is top-load or front-load.
1. Order The Correct Replacement Belt
First, you’ll need to determine what kind of belt is compatible with your washer. This can usually be found by looking at the make and model of your washing machine and finding the appropriate replacement on the manufacturer’s website. Order that replacement once you’ve found the correct one for your washer.
2. Turn Off And Unplug Your Washer
After your replacement belt arrives, you can start replacing your washing machine belt. To start, turn off and unplug your washer to avoid any complications that could occur during the replacement process.
3. Shut Off The Water Supply
As an extra precaution, shut off the water supply that’s connected to your washing machine. This can be done by following the appropriate guidelines in your user manual, or you can ask for assistance.
4. Remove The Access Panel
The location of your washing machine’s access panel depends on the type of washer you own. If you have a top-load washer, the access panel is usually found on the bottom, requiring you to move the machine to its side. On the other hand, a front-load washer’s access panel can be found in the back. It’s still best to consult your machine’s user manual for this step.
5. Locate And Remove The Old Belt
Once you’ve removed the access panel, you should see the belt looped in with a pulley system. Before removing the belt, loosen any screws or bolts so that you can easily slide out the old belt.
6. Install The New Belt
After removing the old belt, install the replacement belt by threading it through the pulleys, as your user manual explains. Once installed, tighten the screws or bolts once more to secure the new belt.
7. Reassemble And Reconnect Your Washer
After installing your new washing machine belt, carefully and thoroughly reassemble your washer and reconnect it to the water supply. After reconnecting it to the water supply, plug it back in and take it for a spin.
Hire The Best Appliance Technicians In Pembroke Pines!
Maintaining your washing machine will be much easier now that you know how to tell if your washing machine belt needs replacing. While the replacement process is straightforward, it’s okay if you don’t feel comfortable executing it on your own. If you’d prefer assistance with this endeavor, contact us at Appliance Repair Pembroke Pines to receive service from the best appliance technicians in Florida!