My Dryer Dial Is Not Turning

Written By
Diana Braun
Diana Braun
Published: Mar 10, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Use a spray lubricant to loosen the dial if grime and dirt are stuck inside the dial mechanism. If the dial is in fact broken, you must purchase and install a replacement knob.

Things You Will Need

  • Spray lubricant
  • Replacement knob
  • Pliers
  1. Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet.

  2. Spray a lubricant behind the dial and turn it. If the dial still doesn’t turn, spray more lubricant.

  3. Replace the knob if it's cracked and the spray lubricant doesn’t fix the problem. You can get replacement knobs from the dryer manufacturer’s website. Check the model of your specific dryer to get the correct replacement part.

  4. Pull the old knob's retainer clip holding the knob in place using a pliers.

  5. Install the new knob and push the new retainer into the grooves of the knob until it snaps in place.

  6. Plug the dryer back into the wall unit and use it.

The Drip Cap

  • The dials of a dryer control the heat and duration of a cycle.
  • Use a spray lubricant to loosen the dial if grime and dirt are stuck inside the dial mechanism.
  • Check the model of your specific dryer to get the correct replacement part.
  • Install the new knob and push the new retainer into the grooves of the knob until it snaps in place.
Diana Braun

Diana Braun began her writing career as a consultant and technical writer for a software company focusing on how-to, training, white paper, and internal process documentation. After two years, Braun left to pursue her entrepreneurial…

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