If your tumble dryer hums or buzzes when you press start but the drum doesn’t turn, the motor is getting power but can’t get going. On many dryers the most common cause is a failed motor run capacitor – a small, cheap part that gives the motor the push it needs to start turning.
Signs the capacitor has failed
- A hum or buzz when you press start, but the drum stays still
- The drum turns if you give it a spin by hand with the door switch held, then stops again
- The dryer trips out or cuts off after humming for a few seconds
- The capacitor looks swollen, cracked or has leaked
Other things can cause the same symptom – a snapped drive belt, a seized drum bearing or a faulty motor – so check the drum turns freely by hand first. If it turns easily and the belt is in one piece, the capacitor is the cheapest thing to try.
Safety first
Unplug the dryer before taking any panels off. Capacitors can hold a charge, so don’t touch the terminals with bare hands. If you’re not confident working on electrical appliances, ask a qualified repairer.
How to find the right replacement
- Find the capacitor – it’s usually near the motor at the back or bottom of the machine.
- Read the label – note the capacitance in uF (for example 7uF or 9uF) and the voltage (for example 450V).
- Check the connection type – tag spade terminals or wires (twin lead), and plastic or metal case.
- Match it – the replacement must have the same uF value and the same or higher voltage.
Tumble dryer capacitors we stock
We keep capacitors for Hoover, Candy, Whirlpool, Hotpoint, Creda, Indesit, Ariston, Beko and other dryers. See all tumble dryer capacitors, or our Ducati tag spade capacitors if you know the uF value you need.
Can’t read the label? Email us a photo of your old capacitor and your dryer’s model number and we’ll match it for you. Fast tracked UK delivery.
Not sure which capacitor to buy? Read our guide: Which motor run capacitor do I need?