Electric Dryer Repair: How to Access the Blower Wheel

Accessing the blower wheel is an important step in electric dryer repair. This type of repair is different for every brand and model of dryer. There are, however, similarities in the design and assembly of each dryer. Before you begin to disassemble your dryer, try to find a manual for your specific dryer model. This will help you visualize where every part of the appliance is located. The blower wheel is located near the dryer's motor. It pulls air over the heat source, through the dryer and out the exhaust pipe. When it becomes loose, it tends to make loud noises and will stop the dryer from working.
Materials
Screwdriver
Manuel
Step 1: Turn off all Power
The first, and most basic step, to any electronic repair is to cut off the device's power supply. Turn off the dryer and unplug it. This will prevent any electrical shocks.

Then, you will need to open the access panel. Depending on your dryer's model this panel may be in the front or the back of the dryer. If you don't have a manual handy, you may have to open both. Remove any screws from the access panel and lift the panel up and off of the dryer.
Step 2: Locate the Blower Wheel
In order to access the blower wheel, you should refer to your manual. The wheel is a fan connected to the axle, near the dryers motor. You should be able to reach back and spin the wheel. If you cannot reach it, you will have to open the other access panel. Be careful and don't cut yourself on any sharp edges.
You may have to disassemble the dryer. If possible, refer to your manual. If you don't have a manual note where every piece is located, write it down and draw a diagram to help remember.
Step 3: Check the Blower Wheel
The first thing to check is how easily the blower wheel turns. It should be hard to turn, or turn with the axle. If it is easy to turn, push it back onto the axle and tighten any bolts or screws. Check to be sure that the fins are not damaged in any way. If they are you will have to completely replace the wheel. Finally, remove any lint build up.
Once you have adjusted and cleaned the blower wheel, you will need to reassemble the dryer. Place every part back where you found it and tighten the screws completely. This will save you from having to repair your mistakes in the future. Replace the panel and screws. Plug the dryer back into the wall and turn it on.
Step 4: Test
Once you have reestablished electricity to your dryer, test it. Do the clothes dry, is the dryer making funny noises. If the answer to either of these questions is yes, the problem may lie in another part of the dryer and you may need to call for a professional to repair the dryer.