For many, the best part about doing the laundry is the quiet sound of the dryer as it cleans your clothes. This soothing part can be ruined by a noisy dryer that makes you want to run away from the dryer. A dryer making a banging noise is a sign that something is wrong with it. If you think repair means a professional repair service then this blog is here to tell you that you can fix your noisy dryer all by yourself!
We are providing you with a step-by-step guide on how to identify the problems and solve them all by yourself!
What Kind of Noise Is Your Dryer Making?
Yes, dryers can make noises like grinding, rattling, thumping, and banging. It is important to identify the kind of noise your dryer is making so that you can be sure of the cause. Different noises mean different issues. Recognizing these noises is the first step in fixing your dryer.
Below are some of the most common dryer noises and their causes:
- Banging or Thumping Sound
A dryer making banging noise could be because of an unbalanced load. An unbalanced load happens when the clothes are not evenly distributed. Due to this the dryer shakes, bangs, and rocks. Another cause could be issues with the drum or drum support rollers.
- Rattling or Clunking Sound
This noise can be caused by a loose drum, or foreign objects that can get trapped inside the drum like coins, paper clips, buttons, or buckles. A damaged blower wheel can also cause such noise.
- High-pitched or Squeaking Sound
This noise mostly comes from the worn-out or poorly lubricated drum rollers or belts. During the cycle, these worn drum rollers or belts cause friction that leads to a high-pitched noise.
- Whistling or Hissing Sound
A whistling sound happens when there is a clogged dryer vent. When the vent is blocked, the air cannot escape without making a noise.
- Grinding Sound
A grinding noise can come from the motor or the blower wheel. There is a chance that these parts are broken leading to your dryer making loud noise.
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Step-by-Step Guide To Fix Your Dryer
Once you identify the specific noise, follow these steps to fix your noisy dryer.
Step 1: Safety First
Before you start fixing your dryer, make sure of your safety. Remove the power cord of your dryer to avoid any electrical shocks or accidents. In case, it is a gas dryer, turn the gas supply off and continue to work safely.
Step 2: Examine the Drum and the Rollers
If your dryer is making a high-pitched noise then you should examine the drum rollers. Drum rollers help and support the drum’s rotation. With constant cycles, they can wear out causing the noise.
You can check and replace the drum rollers all by yourself! Just follow these simple steps:
- Remove the dryer’s front and rear body to reach the drum. (Removing the body can depend on your dryer’s model).
- Check for signs of wear or damage on the rollers. Ideally, they should be rotating freely without any problem.
- If you find them broken or if they are getting stuck while rotating, then they should be replaced. You can easily buy drum rollers at almost all appliance stores or online.
Step 3: Check the Dryer Belt
In case of a squeaking noise, check your dryer belt to see if there is any damage to the belt or if it is worn out. A dryer belt helps in turning the drum. So if the belt gets damaged, your dryer will be making loud noises.
Steps to check the dryer belt:
- Open the body of the dryer and take a look at the belt. A belt is all around the drum and the motor pulley. It might have some wear and tear or it could be broken. If it is broken, then you would need to replace it.
- To change the belt, remove the old one and replace it with the new one. Make sure to carefully place the belt both around the drum and the motor pulley. Make sure to properly place the belt to get your dryer back to functioning.
Step 4: Look for Foreign Objects
Sometimes a dryer making loud noise can be because certain things are stuck inside the drum or the vent system. These things can be anything from coins, pens, buckles to buttons, paper money and other things.
To remove these items:
- Empty the dryer and check the drum if there are any small items stuck.
- You can also check the lint trap area and the blower fan for any small objects.
- If the noise continues after removal, then it is better to contact a professional as it could be some other mechanical problem.
Step 5: Check the Blower Wheel
If there is a grinding or whining sound, you might want to check the blower wheel. The blower Wheel helps circulate the air within the dryer. Due to continuous use, it can wear down with time.
To check the blower wheel, follow these steps:
- A blower wheel is near the motor at the back of the dryer. You should remove the front and the drum to gain better access.
- Check the wheel for any signs of damage or blockages. There are chances of the wheel getting clogged by lint or other things. If that’s the case, then clean it out.
- But if the wheel is damaged or cracked, then it is advisable to replace it.
Step 6: Check the Dryer Motor
One of the most common causes of dryers making loud noise is a faulty motor. It is difficult to fix a motor by yourself and would need professional help. But, you can test the motor to see if it is not working properly.
These are the steps to check the motor:
- Remove the front body to have a better view of the motor.
- Look for any signs of burning or anything unusual near the motor.
- Switch it on and try to identify the type of noise. If it is too loud or makes a grinding noise, then it needs to be professionally replaced.
Preventative Measures to Avoid Having A Noisy Dryer
It is always better to maintain your dryer rather than fix it. To make sure that your dryer is quiet and smooth, here are some maintenance tips to keep your dryer running quietly.
- Regularly Cleaning The Lint Trap
Cleaning the lint trap is one of the most important steps to keep your dryer running smoother and quieter. It is always better to clean the lint filter after every load. A lint trap can cause your dryer to overheat because of poor air circulation leading to the dryer making banging noise.
- Level Your Dryer
You should always make sure that your dryer is levelled. If it is not, then it can create vibrating noises. You can check the alignment of your dryer by using a spirit level. If it is uneven then adjust the legs to make sure your dryer is stable.
- Avoid Overloading
Overloading is another one of the most common mistakes people make with their dryers. Overloading puts pressure on the motor and other parts of your dryer resulting in loud noises and internal damage. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the load size.
When To Call A Professional?
While some dryer issues can be easily solved at home, some issues need professional attention, proper tools and experience. We suggest calling a technician if your dryer is making a loud noise even after trying these DIY fixes or if you think that there is a mechanical or electrical issue. A skilled and certified technician will be able to identify the problem properly and provide you with professional solutions that help your dryer run smoother and better.
A noisy dryer doesn’t necessarily mean that your dryer is faulty. It can be something small like a coin that can lead to your dryer making loud noises. The key to making sure that your dryer stays healthy is to do regular maintenance. Look out for clogged vents, worn-out drum rollers, and small things stuck in the drum or the dryer.
If you are not confident about fixing these issues by yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Barton Appliance Repair provides same-day dryer repair services through skilled and certified technicians in Vancouver and all across British Columbia. Simply give us a call at (604) 256-6495 and we will be happy to help.
People Also Ask
How can I reduce the chances of my dryer making noise in the future?
It is important to take care of your dryer through regular maintenance. Take steps such as cleaning the lint tray, and dryer vent, balancing your load, and keeping a check on the drum rollers and belt.
Why is my dryer making a loud noise?
Check for any small things that could be stuck inside the drum or worn-out drum rollers. Make sure to check the motor and other parts of the dryer.
Can I fix a noisy dryer myself or should I call a repair technician?
Simple issues like a worn-out belt, stuck small objects or a clogged vent can be easily fixed with basic tools. However, if the noise is coming from the motor, the blower, or other internal parts then it is better to get help from a professional.
