Dryer Making Loud Noise?

Why is my dryer making a loud noise? Common causes, what you can check, and when to call technicians.

6-Month Warranty

Service-call pricing

Applied to the cost of the repair when work is done.

$120

Diagnostic visit · same flat rate for all appliances

Warranty: 6-month parts, 3-month labor. Technician quotes the repair on-site before any work.

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Common causes of dryer making loud noise

Loose Drum Rollers

importantCan DIY check

The drum in your dryer tumbles on rollers. If these become worn, cracked, or loose, they can cause thumping, squeaking, or grinding sounds.

Worn Drum Belt

importantCan DIY check

A frayed or broken drive belt can cause slapping or thumping noises as the drum struggles to turn. Sometimes, the dryer will stop tumbling altogether.

Object in Drum

minorCan DIY check

Small items like coins, buttons, or bra wires can get caught between the drum and the dryer housing, creating rattling or scraping noises.

Bad Idler Pulley

importantCan DIY check

The idler pulley keeps tension on the drum belt. If it's worn or seized, it can cause squealing or grinding sounds.

Motor Issues

criticalPro recommended

The main drive motor can develop bearing problems, leading to humming, grinding, or squealing noises. This is a more serious issue.

Blower Wheel Obstruction or Damage

importantCan DIY check

The blower wheel circulates air. If it's loose, damaged, or obstructed by debris, it can cause rattling or scraping sounds as it spins.

Quick checks you can run safely

  1. 1

    Check for Loose Objects

    Carefully inspect the inside of the dryer drum and the lint trap for any loose items like coins, buttons, or small debris. Remove anything you find.

    Safety: Ensure the dryer is unplugged before reaching into the drum.
  2. 2

    Listen to the Noise Type

    Try to identify the type of noise (e.g., thumping, squealing, grinding, rattling) and when it occurs (e.g., only when starting, constantly). This can help narrow down the cause.

  3. 3

    Check Drum Rotation

    With the dryer unplugged, try to rotate the drum by hand. Does it spin freely, or does it feel stiff or make noise? Does the belt feel loose?

    Safety: Ensure the dryer is unplugged before attempting to rotate the drum.
  4. 4

    Inspect Drum Rollers (if accessible)

    If you are comfortable removing the dryer's access panels (ensure it's unplugged first), visually inspect the drum rollers for signs of wear, cracking, or damage.

    Safety: Ensure the dryer is unplugged and all panels are securely replaced before plugging it back in.

When to call a pro right away

  • Loud grinding or metallic scraping sounds persist.

    This could indicate a failing motor or a serious issue with the drum support system that requires professional diagnosis and repair to prevent further damage.

  • The dryer makes noise but does not tumble.

    This strongly suggests a broken drive belt or a seized idler pulley, which requires disassembly to replace.

  • You suspect the motor is the source of the noise.

    Motor issues are complex and involve electrical components. Attempting DIY repair without proper training can be dangerous and may void warranties.

  • You are uncomfortable removing appliance panels or working with internal components.

    Attempting repairs beyond simple checks without the right tools or knowledge can lead to injury or further damage to the appliance.

Saw a red flag above? Don't wait.

Same-day service. transparent service-call pricing (applied to repair) — applied to your repair.

Typical repair time once diagnosed: 75 minutes

Error code on your display?

Look up your brand's error codes for dryer making loud noise — we cover the most common codes for each brand we service.

This page provides general diagnostic guidance for dryer making loud noise. Specific causes and repairs vary by appliance brand, model, and condition. For accurate diagnosis, contact a licensed appliance repair technician. Repairs involving refrigerant systems, gas lines, or high-voltage circuits require certified professionals — DIY attempts on these systems may be illegal and dangerous.

How our repair process works

Five steps from your first call to the warranty receipt. No surprises.

  1. 1

    Inspection

    Your technician examines the appliance, listens to your description, and notes the model + serial for parts lookup. Visual + audio-based diagnostics first — non-invasive.

  2. 2

    Diagnostics

    Targeted tests on the failing subsystem (compressor, control board, heating element, motor, etc.) to identify the exact root cause. You get a clear explanation, not jargon.

  3. 3

    Fix decision

    Up-front estimate before any work begins: cost, parts, and the realistic likelihood of success vs. recommending replacement on an old or uneconomical unit. You decide.

  4. 4

    Operational test

    After the repair we run the appliance through its normal cycle on-site — never "it should work now, call us if it doesn't." You sign off when it's actually working.

  5. 5

    Warranty + consultation

    Receipt with warranty terms in writing. Plus a quick walkthrough of how to extend the appliance's life (filter cleaning, drain maintenance, etc.) — included free.

What our customers say

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Nancy Chapman

Nancy Chapman

11 months ago
Google

Pavel responded to my phone call quickly. We immediately scheduled a time for him to come to my house to check on my appliance. A month ago I scheduled another repairman to check my icemaker but he could not repair it. A couple of days ago, a friend refer…

Josh Wainer

Josh Wainer

a year ago
Google

Pavel was great. Came on time. Diagnosed and found this issue right away. Very knowledgeable. He found the best and most cost effective way to fix our appliance. I would absolutely call again. I just hope I don't need to :)

nadirangel7

nadirangel7

a year ago
Google

He fixed my refrigerator and that I really appreciate that I can say thank you very much for the service. Fix it in two days. I love you thank you thank you.

Robert Williams

Robert Williams

a year ago
Google

"Fix It" is run by Paul who personally services all your appliances. He is reliable and his prices are very reasonable. He has repaired our refrigerator, washing machine and also installed our new dishwasher. We have extreme confidence in him and have never ha…

Nazar Maliarchuk

Nazar Maliarchuk

a year ago
Google

I had a great experience getting my refrigerator repaired. They fixed it in just 5 hours and even cleaned it thoroughly. Excellent service!

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