Dryer Repair – How to Fix a Noisy Dryer

Dryer Repair Troubleshooting Guide

Dryers aren’t very quiet in general, so when your dryer starts to make strange noises, it can be a serious nuisance. It can also indicate that there is a problem with your dryer that needs to be repaired. Diagnosing the issue requires opening up your dryer using tools and inspecting the internal components. If you do not feel comfortable attempting this repair yourself, It Is Fixed Appliance Repair is here to help. Our trained technicians are available seven days a week to assist. Call or book online for a same day appointment.

Important: Before opening your dryer, disconnect it from the power by unplugging it from the wall.

Note: You will need your owner’s manual to help remove the dryer shell and locate the parts mentioned in this guide. If you no longer have your manual, you may be able to find it online at Manuals Online or Manual Owl.

Protip: If you intend to remove any parts from your dryer, take a picture if its location and connections before proceeding. This will help when replacing the part later.

Possible Cause: Dryer Drive Belt

The drive belt is what turns the dryer drum. It wraps around the dryer drum and connects to the drive motor via a series of pulleys. Drive belts are one of the most common points of failure in a dryer because they tend to get brittle and weaken over time.

If the drive belt is damaged or loose, you may hear a loud squealing sound from your dryer when it is running. If the drive belt breaks, you may hear a loud thumping as the belt flips through the pulleys.

Inspect the drive belt. If the belt is cracked, damaged, or worn, it will need to be replaced.

Possible Cause: Dryer Pulley Assembly

The pulley system in your dryer helps maintain tension on the drive belt so the belt won’t slip when it is in use. The number and type of pulleys in your dryer depends on the model, however, they are generally small rubber or plastic wheels that are mounted to the assembly via a pulley shaft.

If the pulleys are the issue you may hear a loud squealing or grinding sound.

Inspect the pulley system. First, remove the belt. Turn the pulleys by hand. They should spin freely on their shaft. Detach the pulleys and inspect the shafts for bends or breaks. Check the pulleys for cracks and signs of wear.

Replace any part of the pulley system that is damaged or worn.

Possible Cause: Drum Roller

The drum support roller helps hold the dryer in place and helps the drum spin smoothly. Drum rollers wear out over time, especially if the dryer has been heavily used or frequently overloaded.

If the drum roller is worn or broken, you may hear a loud buzzing or clanking noise from your dryer as the drum roller is no longer dampening vibrations. If the drum roller is severely worn, you may hear a harsh metallic screech as the drum rolls against its internal components.

The number of drum rollers used by your dryer depends on its brand and model. Some dryers use two drum rollers, others use more. If you need to replace a drum roller, it is recommended to replace all the rollers, otherwise, the dryer drum may sit unevenly on the rollers.

Possible Cause: Blower Wheel

The blower wheel circulates hot dry air into the dryer drum and pushes moist air out of the dryer exhaust. The lint screen in the dryer should capture lint and foreign objects, but if the lint screen is full, lint and debris may get sucked into the blower wheel instead.

If the blower wheel is clogged: You may hear unusual rattling or chugging noises if there is material or an object inside the blower wheel. Look inside the vent opening to remove anything that might be inside.  If the dryer vent is still clogged, you may need to uninstall it from the dryer to access it fully.

If the blower wheel is loose: Over time, the screws that hold the blower wheel in place can loosen. If this happens, the blower wheel will rattle against the dryer drum when it is running. To fix, tighten the screws holding the blower wheel in place. If the screws are stripped, replace them.

If the blower is damaged: You may hear a loud rattle or roaring sound. You may also note that the airflow from the vent is weak or non-existent. Inspect the blower wheel for signs of damage. Rotate the blower wheel manually. It should turn easily. If the blower wheel is worn or stiff, the blower wheel may need to be replaced.

Possible Cause: Drum Bearing

Not all dryers have a drum bearing. In some models, the drum bearing supports the back of the dryer drum. Drum bearings are also different from model to model. Some dryers use a ball and socket bearing. Other drum bearings consist of a shaft connected to a sleeve. Refer to your owner’s manual to determine if your dryer has a drum bearing, and if so, what type.

Like any moving part, drum bearings may wear out over time. To test the bearing, remove the drive belt and turn the dryer drum manually. If the drum spins freely, the bearing is functioning normally. If the drum resists movement or you hear a squeal when you turn it, check the drum bearing for damage or signs of wear. Worn drum bearings should be replaced.

Possible Cause: Drum Glide or Drum Slide

Dryer glides (or slides) support the front of the dryer drum. Unlike the drum bearing that turns with the drum, the drum is supported by the fixed glide. Typically, a smooth material is attached to the glides to reduce friction.

If the glides are worn, you may hear a scraping or sharp metallic squeal as the dryer drum turns.

To inspect the glides, you will need to separate the front of the dryer from the drum. If you need to replace a worn glide, be sure to use the same type of glide used in the original manufacturer of the machine. Although some models are equipped with higher-end glides, like Teflon, you should only use parts that are designed to be used with your machine.

If you need replacement parts, It Is Fixed Appliance Repair can carries factory original parts for most major brands. We are happy to bring the parts to your home and install them for you. Our technicians are on call nights and weekends and will work around your schedule to accommodate your needs. In most cases, we can offer a same day* appointment, so contact us now to book a service call.