A squeal usually means a worn roller, idler or bearing, and a rhythmic thump often means a worn roller or something loose in the drum. Neither fixes itself, and a squeal that grows louder is best handled before a part fails completely.
Match the Sound
- A high squeal while the drum turns: rollers, idler pulley or motor bearing.
- A thump once per turn: a worn drum roller, or an object caught behind the drum.
- A scraping or metallic rub: the drum touching the front or rear support.
- A rattle that comes and goes: a coin, a button or a zipper in the drum.
What to Try First
- Empty the drum and check the lint filter housing for anything small.
- Start the dryer empty for a minute and listen again.
- Make sure the dryer stands level and clear of the wall.
What We Cannot Tell by Ear
Several wearing parts make nearly the same noise, and the sound travels through the cabinet. We open the dryer, turn the drum by hand and inspect each part before recommending anything.
Older Dryers
At 10 to 20 years, rollers and belts are normal wear parts, and replacing them is routine on a sound machine. If the drum itself is dented or the cabinet is rusted through, we say so honestly and let you decide. The price is given in writing before we start. Read more on our dryer repair page.
Describe the sound to us as precisely as you can: when it starts, whether it changes as the drum warms up, and whether it stops once you open the door. A video of the sound recorded on your phone is also useful when you book.
To get the noise traced, call us or use the online form, and we will confirm a three-hour arrival window.