Dryer Makes Noise When Tumbling! Solve All Noise Problems

A dryer making noise while tumbling is often a sign of internal mechanical issues that need addressing. These sounds can vary, indicating different types of problems.

For instance, a grinding noise when the dryer starts often suggests that small, hard objects are trapped inside the drum, possibly coins or nails. This can lead to a rubbing or scraping sound, especially in models like Maytag dryers.

Rattling noises are usually a clue that something is loose or stuck inside the drum. A thumping sound, on the other hand, might indicate an overloaded dryer or twisted, bunched-up bulky items like towels and sheets. Such issues often cause the drum to become unbalanced, leading to loud rumbling or knocking sounds.

Another common issue is with the drum rollers and axle, which support the drum’s rotation. Problems here can lead to squeaking noises. If the idler pulley, belt, support rollers, or motor are damaged or malfunctioning, it can also cause various noises.

These components are crucial for the smooth operation of the dryer and can create a humming sound when they start to fail.

5 Reasons Dryer Makes Noise When Tumbling and Their Solutions

1. Objects Trapped in the Drum

One frequent cause of noise in dryers is objects like coins, buttons, or even small toys getting trapped in the drum or the drum’s edges. These objects can produce a rattling or clanging sound as the drum rotates.

To fix this, unplug the dryer and inspect the drum thoroughly. Rotate the drum manually and listen for any objects hitting the drum walls.

If you find any foreign objects, carefully remove them. Regularly checking pockets before washing clothes can prevent this issue.

2. Worn Drum Rollers

Drum rollers support the dryer drum as it rotates. Over time, these rollers can wear out, leading to a thumping or rumbling noise.

Inspect the rollers for wear and tear. If they are not round or they have flat spots, they need replacing. Accessing the drum rollers usually requires disassembling the dryer, which can be complex.

If you’re not comfortable with this, it’s best to call a professional. Replacing worn drum rollers can significantly reduce noise and extend the life of your dryer.

3. Damaged Drive Belt

The drive belt wraps around the dryer drum and is a critical component for its rotation. A frayed or damaged belt can cause a squealing or thumping noise.

Inspect the belt for signs of wear and replace it if necessary. This involves removing the dryer’s front panel and may require lifting out the drum.

It’s a relatively straightforward process but may require some technical skill. Using the correct belt model specific to your dryer is vital for effective repair.

4. Faulty Idler Pulley

The idler pulley keeps tension on the drive belt, ensuring smooth drum operation. A malfunctioning idler pulley can lead to a high-pitched squealing noise.

Inspect the pulley for signs of damage or wear. If it’s not rotating freely or shows signs of wear, it needs replacing. This repair is more intricate and often involves disassembling a significant portion of the dryer. Ensuring the new pulley is compatible with your dryer model is crucial.

5. Drum Bearings or Glides Wearing Out

Drum bearings and glides facilitate the smooth rotation of the drum. If these components wear out, they can cause a scraping or squeaking noise. Inspect these parts for wear and lubricate them if they are dry.

If lubrication doesn’t resolve the noise, replacement might be necessary. This repair can be complex, as it often requires accessing the rear or the underside of the dryer. Proper alignment during reassembly is important to avoid future issues.

Interpreting Dryer Noises: What They Signify

Dryer noises can be perplexing, but they often provide clues about the underlying issues. A variety of sounds, ranging from thumping and squealing to grinding and rattling, emanate from dryers for several reasons.

Thumping noises are commonly associated with unbalanced loads or bulky items that tumble unevenly.

Squealing or screeching sounds often indicate issues with the belt or idler pulley, signaling wear or misalignment.

Grinding noises may suggest something is obstructing the drum or the motor, and rattling often points to loose components or foreign objects trapped in the dryer.

Resolving Stuck Object Sounds in Dryers

The sound of something being stuck in a dryer can be alarming. It usually occurs when small items like coins, buttons, or even screws get trapped in the drum or exhaust vent. These objects can cause a persistent rattling or clanking noise as the drum rotates.

The first step in addressing this issue is to inspect and clear the drum and lint trap of any foreign objects. For objects stuck in inaccessible parts, such as the exhaust vent, disassembly of the dryer might be necessary.

Regularly checking pockets before laundry and installing a protective cover on the lint trap can prevent such occurrences.

Mitigating Mechanical Wear and Noise in Dryers

Mechanical wear is a significant contributor to noises in dryers. Over time, components such as drum rollers, belts, and pulleys wear down, leading to various sounds including squealing, thumping, and grinding.

Regular maintenance is key to mitigating these issues. This includes inspecting and replacing worn belts and rollers, lubricating moving parts, and ensuring the dryer is level to prevent uneven wear.

Metallic Scraping Noises: A Sign of Dryer Distress

Metal scraping noises from a dryer are a red flag indicating immediate attention is needed. This sound often results from metal parts inside the dryer making contact with each other.

The most common cause is worn drum seals or glides, which can lead to the drum scraping against other metal parts. Another potential cause is foreign objects like nails or screws that have become lodged in the drum or near the heating element.

To fix this issue, first, inspect the drum for any foreign objects and remove them. If the noise continues, check the condition of the drum seals and glides. Replacing these parts can be challenging and might require disassembling a large portion of the dryer.

Mechanical Wear and Dryer Noise: A Critical Analysis

Mechanical wear is a primary reason for noise in dryers, with several components being susceptible. Over time, parts like drum rollers, belts, and pulleys can wear down, leading to noises ranging from thumping to squealing.

Drum rollers support the dryer’s drum, and worn rollers can cause a thumping noise. The drive belt, which turns the drum, can fray or slip, leading to a squealing or screeching sound. The idler pulley, which maintains tension on the belt, can also wear out and cause noise.

Inspect these components for wear and replace any damaged parts to fix these issues. It’s essential to use parts compatible with your dryer model. Regular maintenance checks can help identify wear early, preventing more severe issues.

Rattling and Grinding: Pinpointing Dryer Noise Causes

Rattling and grinding noises in dryers can signify different problems. Rattling often results from loose objects in the drum or exhaust vent, such as screws or coins. Removing these objects can eliminate the noise.

Grinding, however, usually points to a more serious issue, like worn drum bearings or glides. These parts support the drum’s rotation, and when they wear out, they can cause the drum to grind against other components.

To address grinding noises, inspect the drum bearings and glides for wear and replace them if necessary.

Regular maintenance, including checking for loose objects and inspecting wear-prone parts, can help keep your dryer running smoothly and quietly.

Read Also: 5 Common Causes of a Dryer Beeping While Running and Their Solutions