Hotpoint Washer Belts

Hotpoint Washing Machine Belts: A Simple Guide

If your Hotpoint washing machine has stopped spinning or sounds like it’s struggling, there’s a good chance the drive belt or its related parts are to blame. These components help the drum rotate, and when they wear out, your wash cycle can come to a halt.

Here’s a breakdown of the key parts, what can go wrong, and how to fix it.

Key Belt Components and What They Do

Drive Belt
This belt connects the motor to the drum pulley. Its job is to spin the drum during wash and spin cycles. If it’s worn, stretched or broken, the drum won’t turn.
Look out for:

• Drum not spinning
• Squealing or burning smells
• Loose or visible damage to the belt

Motor Pulley
Attached to the motor shaft, this pulley turns the drive belt. If it’s damaged, the belt may slip off or snap.
Tip: If the belt keeps falling off, inspect this pulley for wear or misalignment.

Drum Pulley (or Drum Wheel)
Fixed to the drum, this part receives the belt’s motion. A cracked or misaligned drum pulley will wear out belts faster.
Good to know: Replacing a faulty pulley helps maintain proper belt alignment and keeps everything running smoothly.

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Belt Slipping or Falling Off
Likely causes include a stretched belt, misaligned pulley, or overloading the drum.
Fix: Replace the belt and check pulley alignment. Avoid overfilling the machine.

Drum Not Moving at All
Usually caused by a snapped belt or worn motor pulley.
Fix: Open the back panel, inspect the belt, and replace any faulty parts.

Squealing or Thumping Noises
A classic sign of a loose or damaged belt.
Fix: Replacing the belt should quiet things down and prevent further wear.

Error Codes That Could Point to Belt Issues

If your machine flashes an error code, here’s what it might mean:

F02 – Motor circuit fault, often due to the drum not rotating. Check the belt first.
F16 – Drum lock sensor error, seen in some top-load models. Could be linked to belt or pulley problems.
F30 / F31 – Persistent motor errors. May be caused by a worn belt, faulty motor brushes, or electrical faults.

Tip: If you see any of these codes, check the drive belt before calling out a repair technician.

When Should You Replace the Belt?

Replace the belt if:

• The drum isn’t spinning
• You see cracks, fraying or stretching
• You’re getting drum or motor-related error codes

Regular checks—every 6–12 months—can catch wear early and avoid bigger breakdowns later.

In Summary

The drive belt, motor pulley, and drum pulley are small parts that make a big difference to your Hotpoint washer.
If your drum stops moving, the belt slips, or error codes appear, a simple belt replacement might be all you need.

Got a noisy or lazy drum? Check the belt first—it’s often a quick and affordable fix.