It is not uncommon for noises to be heard on a dryer, because the drum of the device will turn very quickly to effectively dry the clothes. The drum rotates thanks to the motor and the pulley, so these three elements are necessary for the dryer to work properly.
It is important to know how to maintain a dryer: the passage of clothes inside generates a lot of lint and dust, which can damage certain components. The wear of the parts can thus cause an abnormal noise during drying.
This is why it is necessary to know how to distinguish between abnormal noises and noises caused naturally during the drying cycle. It will be necessary to check several elements likely to cause these noises:
- Check drum drive
- Check the drum bearing
- Test the water pump
- Check the moisture sensors
- Clean the air circuit
- Check the thermostats
- Test the drying resistance
- Overhaul the cold air fan
A noisy dryer can be annoying and concerning, especially if it’s disrupting your household. There are several potential reasons why your dryer is making noise, ranging from minor issues to more significant problems. In this article, we will explore some common causes of dryer noises and provide solutions to help you identify and resolve the issue.
1. Loose Items or Debris
Before jumping to more complex reasons, start by checking the dryer’s drum and lint filter area for loose items or debris. Coins, buttons, or small objects left in pockets can cause rattling or banging noises during the drying cycle. Remove any foreign objects you find inside the dryer to eliminate the noise.
2. Worn or Damaged Drum Rollers
The drum rollers support the dryer drum as it rotates. Over time, these rollers can wear out or become damaged, resulting in a squealing or thumping noise. Inspect the drum rollers for signs of wear, such as flat spots or cracks. If they are damaged, replace them with new ones compatible with your dryer model.
3. Faulty Drum Glides or Bearings
Dryer drum glides and bearings help the drum rotate smoothly. If they are worn out or damaged, they can produce a grinding or scraping noise. Inspect the drum glides and bearings for signs of wear, and replace them if necessary to eliminate the noise.
4. Worn Drive Belt
The drive belt connects the dryer’s motor to the drum, allowing it to rotate. Over time, the belt can become worn or frayed, resulting in a loud thumping noise as the drum turns. Inspect the drive belt for any signs of damage or wear and replace it if needed.
5. Damaged Blower Wheel
The blower wheel draws air into the dryer drum to facilitate the drying process. If the blower wheel becomes damaged or loose, it can create a loud humming or vibrating noise. Inspect the blower wheel for any visible damage and tighten it if necessary. If the wheel is damaged, replace it with a new one.
6. Worn Drum Seal or Gasket
A worn drum seal or gasket can cause air leakage, leading to increased noise during operation. Inspect the drum seal or gasket for signs of wear or damage. If needed, replace the faulty seal or gasket to reduce noise and improve the dryer’s efficiency.
7. Loose Panels or Screws
A vibrating or rattling noise may indicate loose panels or screws on the dryer’s exterior. Check all panels and screws to ensure they are secure and tightened properly. If any screws are loose, tighten them to minimize the noise.
8. Failing Motor or Idler Pulley
A failing motor or idler pulley can produce a high-pitched squealing noise. If you suspect either of these components is causing the noise, it’s best to have a professional technician inspect and replace them if necessary.
CHECK THE COLD AIR FAN
A cooling fan is present on all condenser dryers. Its role is to suck in the surrounding fresh air to convert warm moist air. It is located at the front, at the bottom of the device.
- Listen to see if it spins during the drying cycle.
- You can also test this with a multimeter in the ohmmeter position.
- If you cannot find any value, then it will have to be replaced, otherwise the problem comes from the electronic card.
A cooling fan can have several aspects:
- In combination with a drive motor, a turbine is added to the motor axis,
- The remote with aluminum fins is usually located at the bottom of the device,
- Square in shape and reminiscent of a computer fan, this model is often found in the lower right front of the dryer and equips heat pump dryers.
CLEAN AIR CIRCUIT
Over time and as a result of repeated drying, fibers and fluff can accumulate in the device.
- Take a vacuum cleaner and a brush and clean the device, removing dust that may have accumulated inside.
- For a ventilated dryer, make sure that the outlet at the bottom of the unit and the grate leading to the outside are not blocked.
CHECK DRYER WATER PUMP
The water pump, also called the drain pump, is usually located at the bottom of the unit. It can be accessed from the side or rear.
- Remove tubing and connectors from pump. Check if its propeller rotates freely and if the float is blocked.
- Then set the multimeter to the minimum resistance value, and then place the multimeter probes on the pump motor terminals.
- If you find a value of zero ( 1 or OL ), then the pump is off and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
A noisy dryer can be caused by various issues, ranging from minor to more significant problems. By following the troubleshooting steps mentioned above, you can identify the most likely cause of the noise and potentially resolve it on your own. However, if you are unsure about the troubleshooting process or lack the necessary skills and tools, it is best to seek professional help from a qualified appliance repair technician. They can diagnose the issue accurately and safely fix the problem, ensuring your dryer operates quietly and efficiently. Remember, regular maintenance and timely repairs can prevent many dryer noise problems and extend the lifespan of your appliance.
