Dryer Making Noise? What Squeaking, Thumping and Grinding Mean

Dryers are not silent, but a new squeal, thump or grinding noise usually means a part is wearing out. Here is what each sound means and what to do.

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Why is my dryer making noise?

Most dryer noises come from worn drum rollers, a worn belt or idler pulley, drum glides or bearings, a blower wheel with debris in it, or loose items like coins in the drum. Squeaks often mean rollers or the idler pulley. Thumps point to rollers with flat spots. Grinding can mean a worn bearing or a motor problem.

What does each sound mean?

SoundCommon cause
Squeaking or squealingDrum rollers, idler pulley, drum glides
ThumpingFlat spots on rollers, heavy items in the load
Grinding or scrapingWorn drum bearing, glides, or something caught by the drum
RattlingCoins, buttons or debris in the drum or blower
Loud roar or humBlower wheel with debris, motor bearing

What can you check yourself?

  • Empty the drum and run it for a minute. If the noise stops, it was the load.
  • Check pockets and the drum for coins, keys and pens.
  • Make sure the dryer is level and the feet are tight.
  • Clean the lint screen and check the vent hose for crushing.
  • Unplug the dryer before you open any panel.

Grinding, burning smell, or the drum stopped turning? Stop using the dryer and call us.

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Can a noisy dryer be a fire risk?

A noise by itself is not a fire. But a worn motor, a blower full of lint, or a drum that rubs can make the dryer run hot. Lint buildup is a leading cause of dryer fires, so clean the lint filter every load and the vent at least once a year.

The U.S. Fire Administration recommends cleaning the lint filter before or after every load. Our guide on dryer vent cleaning and fire safety explains how to check your vent.

Gas dryers: when is a noise urgent?

If a gas dryer clicks repeatedly without lighting, smells like gas, or makes a whoosh followed by a pop, turn it off. If you smell gas, leave and call PG&E. The PG&E gas safety page lists what to do.

When should you call for dryer repair?

Call if the noise continues with an empty drum, if the drum stops turning, if you hear grinding, or if the dryer also takes longer to dry. Our dryer repair service replaces rollers, belts, pulleys, glides and motors on gas and electric dryers. If your dryer runs but stays cold, read why a dryer stops heating.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to use a noisy dryer?

If the noise is a squeak from a worn roller, it is usually safe for a short time. Grinding, burning smells or a drum that stops turning mean you should stop using it and call for service.

Why does my dryer thump?

Thumping often comes from flat spots on drum rollers, or from shoes and heavy items in the load. Try an empty run to tell the difference.

How much does it cost to fix a noisy dryer?

Rollers, belts and idler pulleys are common, affordable repairs. Our technician gives a price before any work begins.

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