A noisy dryer isn’t just an annoyance; it can also signal a potential mechanical issue. If left untreated, it could lead to further problems, costly repairs, or the need for a new dryer. Here are some common culprits of dryer noises and what you can do about them.

Look For Simple Fixes

You should always investigate a noisy dryer but don’t panic right away. While mechanical problems do cause many dryer sounds, you can solve others with some detective work and a few external adjustments. 

Are There Objects in the Drum?

If you’ve ever left coins or a key in your pocket while washing and drying clothes, you know it can make a racket. If your dryer makes a banging or rattling noise, first rule out a loose object. If you don’t find anything but still hear the noise the next time you dry clothes, you can delve further or contact your local appliance repair company for help.

Is Your Dryer Level?

Your dryer should be level, and all four feet should have solid contact with the floor. If they don’t, the dryer can rock back and forth as the clothes’ weight shifts during the drying process. With a few adjustments of the feet, your dryer could go from loud to silent in a flash.

Investigate Mechanical Wear and Tear

If you can’t identify a simple cause for dryer noise, the culprit is likely a worn or damaged part you can’t see. If a part is compromised, it can’t do its job or interact correctly with the rest of the machine, resulting in atypical noises. 

Here’s a look at some likely suspects and what kind of noise you might expect if there’s a problem:

Drum Rollers

Drum rollers support the dryer drum and help it turn. If one is worn out or damaged, that support becomes unbalanced. A worn drum roller often causes a squealing or squeaking sound. The best practice for dealing with a damaged roller is to replace all of them. That way, the new set will work effectively in sync.

Drive Belt

The drive belt wraps around the dryer drum and, with the help of the drive motor and idler pulley, helps turn it. Tension and friction can cause fraying and wear, making it harder for the drum to rotate smoothly. A worn drive belt can cause a scraping or rattling noise. If you can see visible wear and tear on the drive belt, it’s time for a new one.

Idler Pulley

The idler pulley keeps tension on the drive belt while the dryer operates. If it wears out, it can cause your dryer to make a squealing sound. You should replace a worn idler pulley as soon as possible. Since the idler pulley and drive belt work closely together, it’s advisable to replace the drive belt when you replace the idler pulley, even if the drive belt still looks ok. Getting two new parts together will help keep your dryer working effectively long-term.

If you have significant DIY experience, you might feel comfortable assessing your dryer and replacing worn parts if needed. If not, you should gather all the information you can about the problem and contact a local appliance repair professional for assistance. Either way, you’ll do yourself a favor by handling unusual appliance noises before they cause additional issues.

If you live in Morris County and need help dealing with troublesome dryer sounds, call Morris County Appliance Repair today. We have over 50 years of combined experience to put to work diagnosing and fixing any dryer problem you may have. Our team is fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind, and we do all of our work in-house. Morris County Appliance Repair—You Can Count On Us.