If you dryer is squeaking or squealing, or making a metal on metal noise, it could be due to the following parts:
- drum support rollers or wheels
- idler pulley, dryer drum glides or slides
- front drum bearing
- rear drum bearing assembly
- blower wheel
Over time, these parts wear out and can cause noises.
After unplugging the dryer and removing the outer housing and drum, locate the rollers underneath and give them a turn with your hand. If you hear a squeak or they are difficult to turn, then that is the cause of your problem. Use a lubricant to lubricate them until they are moving smoothly. Sometimes the rollers become misshaped. If they are no longer perfectly round, or, if lubrication does not help, then it might be better to replace them with new dryer drum support rollers.
If you hear a high-pitched squealing, it could be caused by the dryer idler pulley. This part, located on the bottom of your dryer, keeps tension on the dryer belt which wraps around the motor pulley and drum. Over time, the bearing inside the pulley can wear out causing it to squeak or even lock up.
While replacing these parts, check the dryer drum glides located on the front lip of your dryer drum (there will be two – one on each side). The dryer drum glides or slides provide a nice smooth surface for your dryer to ride on and over time, they wear down from use and can start to cause noise, like a scraping sound.
Some dryer models are equipped with a front drum bearing which, like the glides, provide a nice smooth surface for the dryer drum when it spins. This part too can become worn out and you will need to replace it with a new drum bearing.
Another source of noise could be the rear bearing assembly, which are several parts attached to the drum and the back of the dryer. These parts support the drum. Check the parts for wear and replace them.
Sometimes a vane or fin from the dryer’s blower wheel can break off causing noise. The blower wheel helps circulate hot air throughout your dryer. If it’s not working properly, you will have hot, wet laundry, or it will take hours for your laundry to dry. Check the blower wheel to sem if it damaged and replace.
While your dryer is disassembled, it’s a good idea to check your dryer’s belt for cracks and wear. Over time, the belt can get stretched out. Save yourself some time and effort by not having to take apart your dryer apart again. This would also be a good time to clean out any excess lint in your clothes dryer before assembling it together again.