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The other day when I was drying my laundry in my brand Maytag dryer, in the middle of the cycle, my dryer decided to stop working completely. Before it shut down, it was making loud noises for a very long time. But restarting the dryer after quite seemed to make it work properly again, only to make noise after a few minutes and turn off suddenly again.
I instantly started to panic. Being an appliance repair technician, I became nervous. The dryer was absolutely brand new and I could not afford to make another staggering investment like this. So I cracked open my dryer and took a look.
So why was my dryer making loud noise? The reason lay in the loose idler pulley of my dryer. But other reasons could cause this problem like worn-out drum roller axles, torn drive belts, broken blower wheels, broken baffles and lifters, worn-out drum bearings, and many more.
So, in this solution, I will be providing my knowledge and helping you overcome this problem.
Tools You’ll Need To Fix a Noisy Dryer
To help you perform your project smoothly and efficiently, you need a few specific types of equipment, such as the following:-
Step-by-Step Solution to Fix Loud Dryers
Dryer making loud noise might be caused due to a multitude of issues. The following issues might possibly be the reason that is causing your dryer to make a loud noise:-
- Loose idler pulleys
- Torn drum belts
- Worn-out drum roller axels
- Broken blower wheel
- Broken baffles and lifters
- Worn-out drum bearings
- Broken drive motor
- Torn drum seal
1. Loose idler pulleys
Idler pulleys are mainly responsible for holding the dryer belt firmly and allowing it to operate smoothly. If idler pulleys become bad, the drum belt falls out of place and makes it difficult to spin properly. A dryer belt making loud noise is caused by this as a result of loose idler pulleys.
So what are the symptoms of bad idler pulleys? Visible wear on the idler pulley is one of the first signs of a problem with it. Both the pulley and the belt will ultimately wear down as the pulley spins against the belt over time. As a result of the belt’s interaction with the pulley, visible scoring marks may appear on the pulley’s surface.
The pulley and belt will eventually wear down to the point where tension is reduced, causing the belt to slip.
Solution
To replace a bad idler pulley within your dryer, you must follow the steps below as they are:-
- To begin, turn off the power. If you’re using an electric dryer, unplug it. Turn off the gas if it’s a gas dryer. To safeguard your hands, put on work gloves.
- Raise the top panel after that. Remove the two screws that hold the lint screen housing to the top panel using a Phillips screwdriver.
- Remove the front panel using a 5/16-inch nut driver to help remove the front panel.
- Remove the idler pulley and replace it with a new one.
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2. Torn drum belts
The dryer drum belt is used to rotate the drum of both a gas dryer and an electric dryer. It is like the veins and arteries of a body. The long, thin belt completely encircles the drum, tension pulley, and motor.
Unfortunately, as the drive belt ages and wears, it frays and even splits, resulting in a pounding noise every time the drum rotates. Dryer shaking and making loud noise is caused as a result of torn belts. If you hear a loud noise coming from inside your dryer, examine the dryer drive belt by opening the dryer.
Wrapped around the dryer drum, wound over the idler pulley, then looped over the driving shaft is the drive belt. When inspecting the drive belt, finding belt fragments inside the dryer is a solid indicator that it needs to be replaced.
Solution
To replace a torn dryer drum belt, you must do the following:-
- First to avoid a shock, unplug the appliance’s power cable.
- Remove the top panel of the dryer by unscrewing the screws.
- Remove the front panel or panels of the dryer. You’ll probably need to disconnect a door on a regular basis. To remove the tension of the old belt, reach beneath the drum and depress the idler pulley with a switch wire.
- To remove the old belt, slide it over the front of the drum.
- Place the new belt over the drum and tighten it.
- In a zig-zag pattern, loop the belt around the idler and drive pulleys.
- ❤[Overview] Drum Belt 341241 attaches to the motor pulley and spins the drum as the motor rotates. It is the most common belt used on Whirlpool, Kenmore, Inglis, Roper, Estate, Kitchen Aid, and other brand dryers.
- ❤[92" Drum Belt] The circumference of Drum Belt 341241 is 2337 mm or 92 inch. 1/4" wide, 4 ribs, 3 grooves. Replaces some wider 5 rib belts. Purchase the belt of suitable length from Lorenz Butterfly!
- ❤[Part #] Replace Part Numbers: 341241VP, FSP341241, 345473, 349533, 53-0186, 53-1080, 53-1086, 53-1528, 53-1589, 53-2671, 53-2910, 660996, 660997, 661561, 693306, 694088, 694416, 694868, 695055, 697388, 3389628, 3392665, 3394651, 3399844, 8066065, 14210003, 31001026, 31531589, 99906951, 99989673, 99989674, 26000341241, 26000349533, LB276, LB279, P46-037, P46-149, W10127457, W10131364, 529597, AP2946843, PS346995, EAP346995, 694088-NC, etc.
3. Worn-out drum roller axles
A drum roller axel is a support axel for the drum rollers. The drum support roller axles support the drum cylinder, allowing the dryer to tumble correctly. Unfortunately, with time, both the rollers and the axles might wear down, resulting in a loud rumbling noise.
You may be asking why a proper drum roller axel is necessary? The answer is that worn-out drum roller axels may increase friction within your dryer drum. This can cause overheating of your dryer, ultimately leading to fires or forcing shuts down. The belt must be removed and the drum manually spun to check if the axles have worn out.
Solution
- Turn off the electricity and unplug the dryer first. Turn off the gas if you have a gas dryer. To protect your hands, put on work gloves.
- After that, lift the top panel. Remove the two screws that hold the lint screen in place using a Phillips screwdriver.
- The front panel should then be removed.
- Release the locking tab on the wire harness plug with a slot screwdriver.
- Remove the front panel with a 5/16-inch nut driver.
- Take out the drum.
- Using a slot screwdriver, remove the triangle washer from the drum support roller axles.
- ❤[Overview] Drum Belt 341241 attaches to the motor pulley and spins the drum as the motor rotates. It is the most common belt used on Whirlpool, Kenmore, Inglis, Roper, Estate, Kitchen Aid, and other brand dryers.
- ❤[92" Drum Belt] The circumference of Drum Belt 341241 is 2337 mm or 92 inch. 1/4" wide, 4 ribs, 3 grooves. Replaces some wider 5 rib belts. Purchase the belt of suitable length from Lorenz Butterfly!
- ❤[Part #] Replace Part Numbers: 341241VP, FSP341241, 345473, 349533, 53-0186, 53-1080, 53-1086, 53-1528, 53-1589, 53-2671, 53-2910, 660996, 660997, 661561, 693306, 694088, 694416, 694868, 695055, 697388, 3389628, 3392665, 3394651, 3399844, 8066065, 14210003, 31001026, 31531589, 99906951, 99989673, 99989674, 26000341241, 26000349533, LB276, LB279, P46-037, P46-149, W10127457, W10131364, 529597, AP2946843, PS346995, EAP346995, 694088-NC, etc.
4. Broken blower wheel
A blower wheel is used in both gas and electric dryers to pull air through the heating chamber, the drum, and out the exhaust vent. A blower wheel’s job is to circulate air across a space or appliance. The motor shaft rotates the blower wheel, which blows air through the dryer drum and out the exhaust.
So what are the issues that cause a dryer blower wheel to break? Lint, tiny bits of clothing, and other foreign things can clog the lint filter and clog the blower wheel. As a result, the blower wheel falls free. The plastic blower wheel wears out as a result of this.
Solution
- To begin, turn off the power. Turn off the dryer. Turn off the gas if it’s a gas dryer. To safeguard your hands, put on work gloves.
- Using a Phillips screwdriver, raise the top panel and remove the lint screen.
- Remove the front panel and replace it. Remove the front panel mounting screws with a 5/16-inch nut driver.
- Remove the drum now.
- To alleviate stress on the drive belt, move the idler pulley to the right.
- Loosen the blower wheel by turning it clockwise. Using a 13/16-inch wrench or an adjustable wrench, remove the blower wheel from the back.
- Remove it and replace it with a fresh one.
- The Frigidaire Blower Wheel and Housing Assembly is a genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part designed and engineered to exact specifications
- Frigidaire Blower Wheel and Housing Assembly spins on the motor shaft
- Frigidaire 131775600 blow air through the dryer drum and out through the exhaust
5. Broken baffles and lifters
The baffles are located within your drum and prevent garments from clinging to the interior of the drum and aid in the tumble and fluffing of the clothes as they dry. Three or four of them are usually dispersed over the interior. They also assist with ventilation. Small things can become trapped beneath the surface, causing a rattling sound.
Baffles that are worn or loose might make a clumping noise and harm your clothing. This problem can cause your dryer making loud noise. To fix the problem you are facing with your dryer, you need to remove any loose coins or other things that may have become lodged behind the baffles. If you do not do so, the baffles will break. Your laundry will stay wet as a result.
Solution
To change your baffles within your dryer, you must do the following steps below:-
- Lift off the lint screen cover on top of your dryer to have access to the two screws below it.
- To disengage the locking tabs, slide a putty knife between the top and front panels of the dryer.
- Turn the drum inside your dryer until the damaged baffle is at the top.
- Unthread the baffle screws on the drum’s exterior. Then take the baffle out of the dryer by pulling it down.
- Align the screw holes in the baffle with the screw holes in the drum to install the new drum baffle.
- Alternate part numbers include WP33002032, AP6007958, 516891, PS11741085, and WP33002032VP.
- This is the 4-1/4 inch tall drum baffle for your clothes dyer. If you are in need of the shorter 3 inch baffle you'll need to order an SD33001755.
- It is important to disconnect your appliance from the power and water supply before servicing.
6. Worn-out drum bearings
Drum bearings are one of the most essential components of your dryer. This is because drum bearings allow your dryer drum to rotate freely. A drum bearing supports the back of the dryer drum in certain dryers. Dryer drum making loud noise is caused as a result of this issue.
But unfortunately, over time, the bearings change shape due to heat. This increases friction inside your dryer. As a result, the dryer drum finds it hard to rotate freely inside. If the drum bearing wears out, it causes a screeching or grinding noise.
So how can you check for worn-out drum bearings? To check for this, the dryer cabinet must be removed, and the drive belt must be removed from the dryer drum, in order to inspect the drum bearing. If turning the dryer drum is difficult and a screaming or grinding noise can be heard, the drum bearing has to be changed.
Solution
If you find it a hard time rotating your dryer with your hand, then you might need to get the bearings replaced by following the steps below:-
- Wearing a working glove for safety, first turn off the power to your dryer.
- Increase the height of the top panel. Remove the two screws that hold the lint screen housing to the top panel using a Phillips screwdriver.
- The front panel should be removed. Release the locking tab on the wire harness with a slot screwdriver.
- Remove the front panel mounting screws from the inside of the dryer with a 5/16-inch nut driver.
- Remove the drum and inspect the bearings.
- Replacing the bearings with new ones is a good idea.
- The GE Appliances WE25M40 Drum Bearing Kit is a genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part designed and engineered to exact specifications
- Replacement GE Appliances Dryer Drum Bearing Kit supports the rear of the dryer drum
- GE Appliances WE25M40 Dryer Drum Bearing Kit helps the drum rotate smoothly and quietly
7. Broken drive motor
Drive motor is like the heart of a dryer. A problematic drive motor can be recognized through different forms of noise it is producing, such as if the bearings need to be replaced, the drive motor can generate a screeching noise, a humming noise if the switch is defective, and a rattling noise if the motor pulley is loose. Dryer motor making loud noise is caused as a result of a broken drive motor.
How can you check for a broken drive motor? You will need to remove the dryer cabinet and, in most cases, the dryer drum to check the motor. You should be able to spin the drive motor after you’ve gained access to it, and you can check whether it’s making any weird noises. A multimeter can also be used to test the motor.
Solution
To replace your broken drive motor, follow the steps shown below:-
- First wearing work gloves, turn off the power and unhook it from the outlet.
- Increase the height of the top panel. Remove the two screws that hold the lint screen in place using a Phillips screwdriver.
- Remove the front panel and loosen the locking tab on the wire harness plug for the door switch using a slot screwdriver.
- Lift and unhook the front panel from the two bottom hangers by pulling it forward slightly.
- Take out the drum. Remove it from the dryer and place it aside.
- Remove the clamps on the motor. Pry out and loosen the mounting clamps on the front and back sides of the drive motor with a slot screwdriver.
- Remove the old drive motor and replace it with a new one.
- RECOMMENDED USE: Replacement motor kit for dishwashers
- GENUINE REPLACEMENT PART: Made specifically to be compatible with Frigidaire dishwasher
- PART #: 154844301
8. Torn drum seal
A damaged drum seal is one of the most common causes of dryer noises. The main purpose of a drum seal is to keep your dryer from leaking. The space between the drum and the dryer’s front panel allows items in the load to flow through. As a consequence, clothes do not seep out of the drum because of the seal. When the drum seal tears, a large amount of air enters the drum, causing it to thump.
So, what hazards can a ripped drum seal cause? A ripped drum seal can cause many hazards within your home. As it causes leaks, carbon monoxide poisoning is very likable. Overexposure to carbon monoxide can cause memory loss and can also become fatal
Solution
To fix your dryer felt seals, follow the steps below:-
- First, disconnect the power supply.
- Open the dryer cabinet, and remove the drum.
- Peel off the felt seal from the dryer drum and remove any remnants using fine-grit sandpaper.
- Clean the edge of the drum with liquid adhesive remover and let it dry thoroughly.
- Place a new seal around the drum with the help of adhesive.
- Replace Part Number 33001807, WP33001807, 516692, AH2035631, EA2035631, PS2035631.
- This dryer felt is used on both the front or rear side of the drum.
- Non Original, High Quality Aftermarket Replacement Part.
When to Call a Professional
Some dryer owners are surprised to learn that their dryer may need to be cleaned by a professional on occasion. There are several ways that a blocked dryer vent may harm you, but the most obvious issue is that a buildup of lint in your dryer vent poses a major fire threat.
After all, it is via this vent that the hot air that you use to dry your clothes passes. If there’s a lot of dried-out lint in there, it’s easy to see how this may be a severe problem. You won’t need to get your dryer vent cleaned on a weekly or even monthly basis anymore. There are, however, a number of warning indicators to be aware of such as the following:-
1. Your dryer is hot to the touch
When you touch your dryer after a cycle, does it feel like you’re touching a hot oven? If yes, then your dryer may become heated while in use. You may want dryer vent cleaning services if your dryer overheats at the end of its cycle or if your garments are really hot.
2. Clothes taking too long to dry
Is it becoming apparent that your clothes are taking much longer to dry? If this is the case, your dryer vent may need to be cleaned. Don’t just convince yourself that your dryer isn’t up to the task as well as it once was. Before you toss away your dryer, get it cleaned by a professional.
3. Burning odor
If you smell burning when using your dryer, you should contact a professional service specialist. You don’t want a blocked dryer vent to create a fire in your house. Make our number the one you dial.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is the dryer making loud noises?
Your dryer may be making loud noises due to loose idler pulleys or even deformed drum bearings. To stop this problem, you need to get the internal components replaced or fixed.
2. Why is my dryer so loud all of a sudden?
Your dryer may be loud all of a sudden due to worn-out drum support rollers. If the rollers are broken or loose, then the drum might create a lot of noise.
3. Is it safe to use a noisy tumble dryer?
A noisy tumble dryer is definitely not safe to use. The noises it creates might indicate the type of problem you may be having. So, get a technician to get your dryer checked.
4. How do you fix a noisy dryer?
To fix a noisy dryer, you will need to fix the dryer drum seals. To do this, first, disconnect the power supply. Open the dryer cabinet, and remove the drum. Then peel off the felt seal from the dryer drum and remove any remnants using fine-grit sandpaper.
5. What does a bad dryer motor sound like?
A problematic dryer motor can be recognized through different forms of noise it is producing, such as if the bearings need to be replaced, the drive motor will make a screaming noise. if the switch is damaged, it will make a buzzing noise and if the motor pulley is loose, it will make a rattling noise.
6. How do I stop my tumble dryer from being loud?
To stop your tumble dryer from being loud, you need to fix the dryer drive motor. A dryer drive motor can cost a few bucks, but if the motor is faulty, then it is wise to get it replaced.
7. Why is my tumble dryer so loud?
Your tumble dryer is loud because of issues such as a broken blower wheel. To fix this issue, get your dryer blower wheel replaced.
Conclusion
After cracking open the dryer did I stop panicking. Taking a look inside I knew what the problem was and how to fix the issue. My past experience as an appliance repair technician has taught me a lot and in conclusion, I covered the whole topic of dryer making loud noise and its possible solutions. If you face any issues similar to this, the first thing you must do is check the dryer’s manuals properly from head to toe.
Just like a baby, your dryer needs a lot of care and maintenance to make it survive to its utmost limitations. Only after reading the manual can you take the necessary steps to overcome the issues. Before undertaking any steps, first, remember to unplug your dryer from the power socket and make sure you are wearing work gloves.
However, you don’t have to spend money on minor, troubleshooting issues. You can solve your issues by referring to this article. But if still, the problem persists, then you can call a professional to take a dive into your dryer. But a professional service call is only recommended for complicated problems.
