Hello there! Do you have a GE dryer that makes you jump every time it switches directions with loud thumps? Yeah, we know how annoying and worrying those unexpected noises can be. But there is nothing to worry about if you have your GE dryer making loud noise. It is a common issue that you can fix yourself with a little help. And we are here to be your little help! We will tell you all the what’s, when, and how’s of your dryer making banging noises during cycles.
What is That Noise?
Let’s get into the noise-making details of your dryer a little later. It is better to start from what is actually happening when your dryer makes that noise. So, you know how your dryer drum spins in one direction and then reverses. That is supposed to happen as it prevents your clothes from getting all tangled up. But when this reversal comes with a loud thump or a bang, then you should know that there is something wrong.
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Common Causes of That Annoying Thump
- Worn Out Support Rollers: There are little wheels that help your drum spin smoothly. So when these support rollers wear out, they can cause your drum to drop slightly during rotation. This can result in your dryer making loud noise when changing directions. Think of it like a bike with worn-out wheels – it’s just not going to ride as smoothly anymore.
- Drum Glides Getting Tired: We thought you would like to know – your dryer has these little pieces called drum glides that help everything move smoothly. With continuous usage, they can wear down (just like the soles of your favourite shoes). This causes your dryer to make a thumping noise when it changes direction.
- Belt Issues: The drive belt is like the backbone of your dryer’s spinning action. Over time it can start to get loose or wear out, and then make all sorts of funky noises, including the thumping noises that you keep on hearing.
DIY Detective Work: How to Check What’s Wrong
Before you jump into taking things apart, it is always good to do some simple detective work.
- The Hands-On Test
When your dryer is turned off (super important!), open the door and spin the drum by hand. Does it spin freely? Is there any resistance? Carefully listen for any sort of scarping or unusual sounds. This will help you to know what’s going on inside your dryer.
- The Visual Inspection
Take a peek inside with a flashlight. Look for any obvious signs of wear and tear, like:
- Loose items that might have fallen behind the drum.
- Visible wear on the drum glides.
- Any debris caught in the drum’s movement path.
Roll Up Your Sleeves: The Fix-It Guide
If It’s the Support Rollers
Most of the time, support rollers are the common culprits. Worry not, we have ways to catch hold of them!
- Unplug your dryer (safety first!).
- Remove the front panel (your user manual can help you with lots of specifics for your model).
- Look for the support rollers. Usually, there are two or four of them at the bottom of the drum.
- Check how freely they are spinning. They should be moving smoothly without any wobbling.
- If they are worn out, then replace all of them at once (it’s like changing tyres – best to do them as a set).
Dealing with Drum Glides
If it is the drum glides that are the problem, then:
- Again, start by unplugging the dryer.
- Access the drum (This might mean removing the front panel. It varies from model to model).
- Look for the drum glides – they’re usually plastic or felt pieces along the front or rear of the drum.
- If they look worn or damaged, it’s replacement time.
- Make sure to get the right replacement parts for your specific GE model.
Belt Troubles
Sometimes it can be belt issues too, so for belt issues:
- Check if there is a proper tension. If there is, then a loose belt will cause problems.
- Look if there are signs of wear, cracking, or fraying.
- If you spot any issues, it is best to replace the belt entirely.
This can be a bit tricky, so don’t hesitate to call a professional!
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Pro Tips
These are some of our tried and tested tips for a pro-like DIY repair.
- Always unplug your dryer before starting any repair work.
- Take pictures with your phone as you disassemble things – they’ll be super helpful when putting everything back together.
- Keep track of all screws and small parts! They are super easy to lose! (get a magnetic parts tray – truly your best friend here)
- If you are confused about something, get help from your user manual.
When to Call in a Professional?
Most of these GE dryer repairs can be easily fixed at home. But sometimes, it just gets too much and it’s best to call in a professional. Reach out if:
- You are not comfortable working with appliances.
- If your dryer continues making the thumping noise after repair attempts.
- You start to notice other issues along with the thumping noises.
- You can’t pinpoint the source of the noise.
Say No to Future Thumps
Once you have fixed the immediate problem, we have some tips so that you can keep your dryer running smoothly.
- Don’t overload the dryer.
- Clean the lint filter after every load.
- Keep your ears at attention, listen for new or unusual sounds and take care of them early.
- Have your dryer serviced annually. (it does wonders!)
Conclusion
When your GE dryer makes thumping noises, the first step is to not panic. Knowing some basic troubleshooting and repair work will get your best buddy to be quiet once again! But remember repairs are the solution, regular maintenance is! If you still hear your dryer making loud noise after these solutions, then call in a professional. If you want a friendly neighborhood dryer repair service – call Barton Appliance Repair in Vancouver! We will save you time and money by providing the best service in town!
