Dryer Making Loud Rumbling Noise: Fix It Step by Step

Quick answer

A loud rumbling noise in your dryer is often caused by a worn drum roller or loose parts. Turn off the dryer, check for loose items, and inspect the drum rollers for wear.

Confirm the symptom

• Loud rumbling during the drying cycle
• Noise increases when dryer is running
• Sound comes from the back or bottom of the dryer

Tools and prep

• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Socket set and wrench
• Flashlight
• Work gloves
• Safety glasses
• Owner's manual

Step-by-step troubleshooting

1. Turn Off and Unplug Dryer
   Do: Unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker to ensure safety.
   Observe: Dryer is powered off and cannot start accidentally.
   Means: Safety is ensured before working on the dryer.
   Next: Check for loose objects
2. Check for Loose Objects
   Do: Inspect the drum and lint trap for any foreign objects like coins or small items.
   Observe: Any loose objects are removed.
   Means: Objects inside the dryer can cause loud noises.
   Next: Inspect drum rollers
3. Inspect Drum Rollers
   Do: Remove the front or top panel to access the drum rollers. Check for wear, cracks, or looseness.
   Observe: Drum rollers show signs of wear or damage.
   Means: Worn drum rollers are a common cause of loud noises.
   Next: Replace drum rollers if needed
4. Check Idler Pulley
   Do: Locate the idler pulley near the drum rollers. Spin it by hand to check for smooth movement.
   Observe: Idler pulley is noisy or does not spin smoothly.
   Means: A faulty idler pulley can cause rumbling noises.
   Next: Replace idler pulley if necessary
5. Examine Drum Bearings
   Do: Look for signs of wear or damage on the drum bearings. Listen for grinding sounds when rotating the drum manually.
   Observe: Drum bearings are worn or damaged.
   Means: Worn drum bearings can create loud noises during operation.
   Next: Replace drum bearings
6. Check Belt Tension
   Do: Inspect the dryer belt for proper tension and signs of wear. Adjust or replace if necessary.
   Observe: Belt is loose or damaged.
   Means: A loose or damaged belt can cause unusual noises.
   Next: Adjust or replace belt
7. Inspect Motor Mounts
   Do: Check the motor mounts for looseness or damage. Tighten or replace as needed.
   Means: Loose motor mounts can cause the motor to vibrate and create noise.
   Next: Tighten or replace motor mounts
8. Test Dryer
   Do: Reassemble the dryer and plug it back in. Run a test cycle to see if the noise persists.
   Observe: Noise is gone or reduced.
   Means: The issue has been resolved.
   Next: Monitor dryer for any recurring issues

Common causes

Parts matching

Match your dryer's symptoms to the most likely parts that need replacement:

• Loud rumbling from the back or bottom: Drum rollers or idler pulley
• Grinding noise when rotating drum: Drum bearings
• Noise when dryer starts: Loose belt or motor mounts
• Intermittent noise: Foreign object in drum

Always refer to your dryer's manual for specific part numbers and installation instructions.

When to call a professional

• Noise persists after replacing all common parts
• You are unsure about disassembling the dryer
• The dryer is under warranty and you don't want to risk voiding it
• You detect a burning smell or electrical issues
• The noise is accompanied by a complete failure to dry clothes

FAQ

Related guides

• dryer belt replacement
• dryer making squeaking noise

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