Short answer
Thumping usually means worn drum rollers or a flat spot on the belt; squealing often comes from the idler pulley or belt; scraping can be a worn drum seal or glide; rattling is frequently something in the drum or vent. Grinding or a burning smell means stop using the dryer.
Noise guide
| Sound | Commonly involved | Keep using? |
|---|---|---|
| Rhythmic thump | Drum rollers, belt | Short term, schedule repair |
| High squeal | Idler pulley, belt | Schedule repair |
| Scraping | Drum seal or glides, coin stuck at drum edge | Check for objects |
| Rattle | Loose items, vent flap | Check drum and vent |
| Grinding | Motor or roller bearings | No — stop |
Dryer airflow
- 1HeaterElement (electric) or burner (gas)Technician
- 2DrumHot air passes through tumbling clothes
- 3Lint screenClean every loadYou can check
- 4DuctNo kinks or crushingYou can check
- 5Vent hoodFlap opens, no blockageYou can check
Safe checks
- Empty pockets — coins and buttons cause rattles and scraping
- Check the drum's front edge for trapped items
- Make sure the dryer is level
Stop using it if
Act now
- Grinding, burning smell, or smoke
- The drum stops turning while the motor runs
Don't attempt
Leave this to a professional
- Running a dryer that's grinding or smells hot
- Removing panels with the dryer plugged in, or any gas connection work
How it's diagnosed
Most dryer noises come from the drum support system. A technician removes the front or top panel, spins the drum by hand, and checks rollers, the idler pulley, the belt, and drum glides for wear. Replacing worn support parts together is common, since they wear at similar rates.
Cost and repair-or-replace
Roller, belt, and pulley kits are among the most cost-effective dryer repairs. Motor bearing noise is more expensive to fix, and on an older dryer may tip the decision toward replacement.
What to request
A symptom points to likely causes; only testing confirms one. If the checks above don't solve it, request a diagnosis for dryer repair and mention what you've already checked.
Common questions
Is a squeaking dryer dangerous?
Usually not immediately, but it signals wear that tends to get worse. Schedule a repair before the part fails completely.
Why does my dryer squeal only at the start of a cycle?
A squeal that fades as the drum gets up to speed often comes from a worn idler pulley or a glazed belt. It usually gets worse over time, so schedule a repair before it fails.
Need dryer repair? Call now
Pricing, timing, and appointments are confirmed by the repair provider.
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