At a Glance
Understanding Different Dryer Noises
A noisy dryer can be disruptive and cause concern over the state of your laundry appliances. As dryers age, they may emit new, loud, and bothersome sounds, each indicating different issues. Whether it's a rattle or a rumble, the variety of noises points to various potential problems within your machine.
Fortunately, addressing a noisy dryer is manageable with several options at your disposal. Whether you opt for DIY fixes, or professional repairs, or decide to invest in a new dryer, there's a solution to enhance your laundry experience. This guide is designed to help you tackle those disruptive dryer noises and restore peace to your household.
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The problem with your dryer making noise is that the sound can build up over time until it is too loud to ignore.
While it’s easier to identify a new rattle or squeak, your dryer may have been getting a little bit louder over time. To determine if your dryer is louder than it should be, check the user manual or online guides for your specific model. It should list the expected decibel level (dBA) that your dryer runs at.
For reference, most clothes dryers have decibel levels lower than 60 dBA. Download a sound meter on your smartphone and measure how loud your dryer is when running. If it is louder than the manuals say it should be, something is wrong.
Understanding Different Dryer Noises
If you notice your dryer making weird noises, the first step is to learn where the noise is coming from and why. Here are a few common sounds that can develop in aging dryers and where they come from.
- Dryer making rattling noise: Look for any lose items inside the drum or the machine. You can also run a magnet over your appliance to pick up small items.
- Dryer making screeching noise: Inspect the drive belt. Not only can a worn out belt create a squealing noise, but it can potentially break and prevent the dryer from turning on.
- Dryer making grinding noise: Look for the drum bearing, which is the ball and socket in the back of the appliance. The drum could be rubbing against this part of the machine.
- Dryer making squeaking noise: Check the drum rollers. These are the two small wheels that spin the belt of the motor. These wheels could be worn out or in need of grease.
Once you notice your dryer making noise, try to figure out where it is coming from. This will help you narrow your search to diagnose the issue.
→ Learn More: 5 Surprising Benefits of a Smart Washer and Dryer
Common Causes of Dryer Noises
There is good news if you notice your dryer making noise: the issue might be easy to address and prevent in the future. Many causes of weird dryer noises come from consumer use.
With a few healthy laundry habits, you can keep your dryer running at its best. Here are a few common causes of noise to consider:
- There are foreign objects in the drum: The main cause of a dryer making noise when spinning is loose change, keys, or other items accidentally left in clothes pockets.
- The drum bearings or belts are worn out: This is a natural part of the dryer aging process.
- You are overloading the dryer: If your dryer making loud noise is new or inconsistent, check your laundry habits. Small loads might prevent this noise.
- Lack of maintenance: You might have an older appliance that is starting to break down.
Answering “Why is my dryer so loud?” isn’t always easy. You need to consider whether your laundry habits are causing the noise or whether the appliance is getting older.
→ Learn More: Speed Queen Washer and Dryer - Reviews
DIY Dryer Fixes
A dryer making noise often causes stress for homeowners who worry about the cost of replacing the unit or paying for repairs.
Fortunately, you might be able to address the dryer knocking sound on your own. Here are a few DIY fixes and maintenance steps to look into:
- Run smaller loads of laundry: Test whether your dryer is getting overwhelmed by large loads.
- Clean out the lint trap and vent: Remove loose items, debris, lint, dust, and other items that build up over time.
- Inspect the machinery: Look at the dryer belt and other elements to make sure they are running as they should.
- Make sure your dryer is level: A balanced dryer is less likely to make unwanted noises that disrupt your family.
Make sure you are taking safety precautions before you attempt any DIY repairs. Have someone watch you in case there is an accident. Unplug the dryer before handling any electrical elements.
Finally, be careful when lifting and moving these appliances. They are heavy and you can hurt yourself if you aren’t careful.
When to Call a Repairman
If you don’t feel confident in your DIY skills, call a repair professional. These experts can quickly identify the source of the weird noises and work to address them. They will have the right tools and experience for the job. Here are a few signs it’s time to call for help:
- You can’t find the source of the issue.
- Your DIY repairs aren’t working.
- You simply don’t want to repair the dryer yourself.
- The loud noises are getting worse.
- New noises have developed.
Even if you confidently repair one issue, there might be another problem that is causing additional noises. A professional technician can make sure your dryer is running at its best.
High-Quality Dryer Options
If your DIY efforts don’t yield results and a repair technician is unhelpful, it might be time for new laundry appliances. Here are a few high-quality dryer models that will run quality and efficiently in the years that you own them.
Speed Queen DR7 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer
Shop Speed Queen 7.0 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer
Speed Queen is known for its durable appliances. You can use this model for years without worrying about weird noises and rattles forming.
This is the Pet Plus dryer from Speed Queen which is designed to remove fur and dander from your clothes. Snuggle with your pets without wearing their fur for the rest of the day.
★ Featured Speed Queen DR7004WE Review:
“So far, I love everything about it. The seven-year warranty was important to me. The lint trap is so easy to clean.”
Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer
Shop Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer
If your dryer makes loud noises because you overload it, look into a larger capacity model. This Whirlpool dryer is large enough to support a family and durable enough to last for years.
It is also an Energy Star® certified model that will keep your energy costs down. Get the power you need at a low price.
★ Featured Whirlpool WED560LHW Review:
“The main reason I bought Whirlpool was because our 47-year-old oven is still working, so I am a big fan of this brand. This machine is easy to use and washes the clothes excellently.”
LG 7.4 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer
Shop LG 7.4 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer
If you value technology in your home appliances, consider exploring an LG dryer. These appliances are designed to protect your clothes while drying them effectively.
You can monitor the cycle through the ThinQ® app and receive alerts when your laundry is done. This dryer is designed with LoDecibel™ quiet operation technology to prevent loud noises.
★ Featured LG DLEX4200W Review:
“I bought this about 10 months ago and it's great! I love the steam dry as it does a great job of getting wrinkles out of most clothes if I leave the load in the dryer too long after drying.”
Bosch 500 Series 4.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer
Shop Bosch 4.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer
Customers who want luxury dryers can’t go wrong with Bosch. These appliances are known for their durability and finesse.
Bosch dryers are designed with noise reduction technology, making them one of the quietest models on the market. It is also an Energy Star® appliance.
★ Featured Bosch WTW87NH1UC Review:
“Works great and only uses 123 kWh per year! I set it on the More Dry setting and everything gets dry. More than pleased with our new purchase.”
→ Learn More: 4 Whirlpool Washers and Dryers Under $1,000
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about dryers making loud noise:
Why is my dryer so loud all of a sudden?
Dryers get louder when the systems inside of them start to break down. Parts of your dryer could be loose, worn out, or broken. Call a repair professional if you notice unwanted squealing, thumping, or grinding when you are trying to dry your clothes.
Can I still use my dryer if it's making a loud noise?
Your dryer will continue to work even if it makes loud noises; however, consider these sounds a warning from your appliance. Your dryer might break down in the near future if the source of the issue isn’t addressed. Loud sounds can get worse over time.
How much does it cost to fix a noisy dryer?
Dryer repair costs can be as cheap as $100 for basic issues. Most people pay around $200 or less to fix their noisy appliances. If your dryer repair costs more than this estimate, it might be better to replace your old unit with a new model.
Why Trust Texas Appliance?
With roots back to the 1950s, Texas Appliance is an established, locally owned and operated, residential major appliance retailer serving both residential and builders’ needs. Our 4 locations allow us to offer a full spectrum of appliances to meet your every need. With over 40 major quality brands, Texas Appliance has one of the largest displays of built-in and freestanding appliances in the state of Texas.
We will be the best appliance dealer in our markets by exceeding our customers' expectations in every way. We will treat our customers, vendors, and fellow employees with respect, honesty, integrity, and appreciation. The difference between a "Good" company and a "Great" company lies in its' employees' determination.
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Stop by Texas Appliance’s Fort Worth Store and Outlet locations to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop dryers online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the best dryer for your home — whether you call us at 817-299-2800, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.