A noisy dryer is telling you something. The sound often points at the part that is wearing out, so listen before you call. If the noise does not go away, our dryer repair in Kenmore, WA service can find the worn part.
Safety first. Unplug the dryer before you open it. Do not run a dryer that is grinding or smells hot.
What the sound usually means
- Thumping that repeats with each turn. A worn drum belt or a flat spot on a roller.
- Squealing or high screech. Often the idler pulley or the motor bearing.
- Rumbling or rolling noise. Drum support rollers.
- Scraping or grinding. Drum glides or something stuck between the drum and the cabinet.
- Rattle or clink. A coin, button or zip in the lint area. Check the pockets and the lint trap housing.
Simple checks first
- Empty the pockets and look in the drum for loose items.
- Check that the dryer sits level on all four feet.
- Do not overload the drum. A heavy, unbalanced load will thump.
Belt, rollers and drum support
These parts wear out over time. The cabinet has to come apart to reach them. Take photos at each step so you can put it back. We explain the order of parts in the manuals, parts and DIY help guide.
When to call
Call if the noise is a screech or grind, if the drum will not turn, or if you smell burning rubber. A snapped belt is a common reason a dryer hums but the drum stays still.
Why the drum will not turn
If you hear the motor but the drum stays still, the drive belt has often snapped or slipped off. The belt wraps around the drum and the motor pulley, so replacing it means opening the cabinet. We unplug the dryer first, inspect the idler pulley and rollers while the drum is out, and replace worn parts at the same visit when we can.
Noisy dryer in Kenmore, WA: what to do
Squealing, thumping and rumbling point to different parts: a worn belt or idler pulley, tired drum rollers, or a loose blower wheel. Stop using the dryer if the noise is a loud scrape or you smell burning.
When you contact us in Kenmore, WA, say what the sound is, when it happens and what the model number is. That lets us tell you what is likely wrong and what the repair involves before we visit. See the Kenmore models page if you need help finding the number.
Squeaky, squealing or loose-drum Kenmore dryer
A squeaky Kenmore dryer or a noisy Kenmore dryer usually points to the belt, the idler pulley, the drum rollers or the bearing. A loose drum means worn rollers or drum support. The felt seal at the front of the drum can also wear and make noise. We find which part is at fault and replace it. For squeak repair, see the idler pulley and drum roller guide.
Questions people ask
Why is my dryer so loud all of a sudden?
A new loud noise usually means a part is failing. A thump points to the belt or rollers, a squeal to the pulley or motor.
Is it safe to keep running a noisy dryer?
No, not if it grinds or squeals. A failing part can get worse and put extra strain on the motor.
How long does a drum belt last?
It depends on use and the dryer.
Keep reading
- Dryer warning signs and fire safety. A simple monthly routine for the lint filter and vent.
- Manuals, parts and DIY help. Find the model number and match the right part.
- Kenmore dryer models. Find your model and its common faults.
- Dryer repair cost in Kenmore, WA. What changes the price and how to compare quotes.
Noisy dryer? Call us.
Call and tell us what the dryer is doing.