QA

Question: Dryer Making Noise When Spinning

A dryer can make a loud squeaking noise if a part called the idler pulley is not functioning properly. The idler pulley puts tension on the drum belt to keep it from slipping while the dryer is spinning. Friction build-up can cause the pulley to wear out and is often responsible for a squeaking noise.

What does a bad dryer drum roller sound like?

Drum Rollers and Axles: Squeaky or Thumping Noise When the rollers are slightly damaged, they are more likely to make a squeaky noise. As they completely wear out, the effect on the dryer drum causes a loud thumping noise. If the rollers or axles are damaged, you should replace them.

Is it safe to use a noisy tumble dryer?

Have your tumble dryer looked at by a professional as soon as possible. Ignoring the sounds can cause serious damage to your appliance as metal scraping on metal can cause abrasion in both parts.

What does a bad dryer bearing sound like?

Squeals. The first indication of bad dryer motor bearings is a squealing sound from the dryer. The noise usually comes from the vicinity of the motor that is typically affixed to the bottom of the dryer, at the back. The bearings might also squeak rhythmically as the dryer drum turns.

How much does it cost to replace dryer rollers?

Replacing the rollers in a dryer averages $100 to $150. The rollers sit behind your dryer’s back panel and hold the drum in place to rotate smoothly. If they break or wear down, you may hear unpleasant noises coming from the appliance. Fortunately, replacement rollers are inexpensive.

Why does my dryer sound like it has rocks in it?

The rumbling or thumping sound could be caused by worn drum support rollers. The drum rollers support the dryer drum on some models and makes of dryers (like those made by Kenmore or Whirlpool.) To access the two back dryer drum support rollers, you will need to remove the dryer drum from the cabinet.

What does it sound like when a dryer belt breaks?

The Signs Of A Bad Dryer Belt If you hear a thumping or any other noise, it’s a good idea to track down the problem and fix it before your dryer stops working completely. When the belt breaks, the dryer stops spinning. The belt is powered by a motor that causes the belt to turn the drum.

How do I know if my drum rollers are bad?

You can check the drum rollers by opening the dryer door and looking at the back of the wall. The drum support rollers should be checked if there is a gap between the rear of the tumbler and the back wall.

How much does it cost to replace a dryer belt?

If it is a small problem like a dryer belt, you might be able to get a professional to fix it for around $70. For larger problems like a busted drum, repair costs might be more than $400.

How long should a dryer last?

A dryer should last 10-13 years. To extend the dryer’s life, clean the lint trap after each use and make sure the outer vent is clear as well.

What does a bad dryer motor sound like?

Gas and electric dryers have a motor that turns the blower and the dryer drum. A defective motor can produce a variety of sounds, such as a ratting noise from a loose pulley, a high-pitched noise from a bad bearing or bushing or a humming noise from a bad winding or switch on the motor.

Is it cheaper to fix a dryer or buy a new one?

The general rule of thumb for any appliance is that if repair costs are more than half of the replacement cost, it’s time to buy a new appliance. You can get a basic dryer for about $300, but it’s not Energy Star rated so utility savings are minimal. In this scenario, it’s a toss-up on whether to repair or replace.

Is it hard to replace a dryer belt?

One of the most common causes for a clothes dryer to fail is a broken drive belt on the dryer drum. This is an easy do it yourself repair, which uses very few tools, and can save a lot of money.

Is it worth getting tumble dryer repaired?

After a quote, consider the 50% rule. If your dryer will cost more than 50% of its original cost to repair and is over 50% of the way through its lifespan, then getting a new dryer is often more cost-effective.

Can a dryer belt cause a fire?

The burning smell from your dryer may be lint buildup or another common problem—such as a failing thermostat, motor, or belt. About a third of those fires are caused by excess lint buildup inside the dryer, so it’s time to investigate.

What does a bad dryer belt look like?

Inspect your dryer’s belt. If it is excessively worn, has little cracks, or is broken altogether, you will have to replace it. With your dryer opened up, you’ll notice that the belt loops over the drum, under the idler pulley wheel, and around the motor’s drive pulley.

Where is the belt on a dryer?

The dryer belt goes around the outside of the drum and is looped onto a drive pulley attached to the dryer motor shaft which drives the belt, and around an idler pulley which applies tension to the belt. This tension is what causes the belt to grip the outside of the drum in order to rotate it.