Kenmore Elite Dryer Making Knocking Noise (Troubleshooting Guide)

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Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

A knocking noise in your Kenmore Elite dryer is often caused by a loose part or an unbalanced drum. Turn off the dryer, check for loose screws or objects in the drum, and ensure the drum is level.

Confirm the symptom

Knocking or thumping sound during the drying cycle
Noise increases when dryer is loaded with clothes
Noise stops when dryer is empty

Tools and prep

Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Flashlight
Work gloves
Owner's manual for your Kenmore Elite dryer
Turn off the dryer and unplug it before starting
Clear the work area for safety

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Check for Foreign Objects
Do: Open the dryer door and inspect the drum for loose items like coins or small objects.
Observe: Look for any objects that might be hitting the drum or sides.
Means: Foreign objects can cause knocking noises.
Next: If objects are found, remove them and test the dryer.
Inspect Drum Support Rollers
Do: Use a flashlight to look at the drum support rollers for signs of wear or looseness.
Observe: Worn or loose rollers can create a knocking sound.
Means: Rollers help support the drum and reduce vibration.
Next: If rollers are damaged, they may need replacement.
Check Drum Level
Do: Ensure the dryer is on a level surface and the leveling legs are properly adjusted.
Observe: An unbalanced dryer can cause the drum to knock.
Means: Improper leveling leads to uneven drum rotation.
Next: Adjust the leveling legs if necessary and test the dryer.
Examine Drum Bearings
Do: Listen for grinding or knocking noises when manually rotating the drum.
Observe: Unusual noises may indicate worn drum bearings.
Means: Worn bearings can cause the drum to knock during operation.
Next: If bearings are faulty, they may need to be replaced.
Inspect Idler Pulley
Do: Check the idler pulley for wear or looseness.
Observe: A worn idler pulley can cause the belt to slip and create noise.
Means: The idler pulley helps maintain belt tension.
Next: If the pulley is damaged, it should be replaced.
Check Drive Belt
Do: Inspect the drive belt for signs of wear, cracks, or looseness.
Observe: A loose or damaged belt can cause the drum to knock.
Means: The drive belt keeps the drum rotating smoothly.
Next: If the belt is damaged, it should be replaced.
Test Dryer Operation
Do: Plug in the dryer and run a test cycle with a small load of laundry.
Observe: Listen for any remaining knocking noises.
Means: This confirms whether the issue has been resolved.
Next: If the noise persists, further inspection or professional help may be needed.

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Loose or missing screws Screws that secure the dryer components can become loose over time, causing parts to knock against each other.	Common	Easy	Screws
Worn drum support rollers Support rollers wear out and can cause the drum to wobble or knock during rotation.	Common	Medium	Drum support rollers
Unbalanced drum An unbalanced drum can cause knocking sounds due to uneven weight distribution.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Worn drum bearings Drum bearings can wear out and cause the drum to knock during operation.	Sometimes	Medium	Drum bearings
Worn idler pulley A worn idler pulley can cause the belt to slip and create a knocking sound.	Sometimes	Medium	Idler pulley
Loose or damaged drive belt A loose or damaged drive belt can cause the drum to knock during rotation.	Sometimes	Medium	Drive belt
Foreign objects in the drum Coins, buttons, or other small objects can get caught in the drum and cause knocking noises.	Rare	Easy	None

Parts matching

If you need to replace parts, match these common components with your symptoms:

Loose screws: Check for missing or loose screws in the dryer frame or drum.
Worn drum support rollers: Look for wear or looseness in the rollers supporting the drum.
Worn drum bearings: Listen for grinding or knocking when rotating the drum manually.
Worn idler pulley: Check for wear or looseness in the pulley that maintains belt tension.
Loose or damaged drive belt: Inspect the belt for cracks or looseness.

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

When to call a professional

The knocking noise persists after checking all common causes.
You are unable to locate the source of the noise.
You are not comfortable performing the inspection or repairs yourself.
The dryer emits a burning smell or sparks during operation.
The dryer does not heat or starts but does not dry clothes.

FAQ

Can a loose screw cause a knocking noise in my Kenmore Elite dryer?

Yes, loose screws that secure the dryer components can cause parts to knock against each other. Check for and tighten any loose screws.

How do I know if the drum support rollers need replacement?

Inspect the drum support rollers for signs of wear or looseness. If they are worn or loose, they should be replaced to prevent further damage.

What should I do if the knocking noise stops when the dryer is empty?

This may indicate an unbalanced load. Ensure the dryer is on a level surface and the leveling legs are properly adjusted.

Can a worn idler pulley cause a knocking noise?

Yes, a worn idler pulley can cause the belt to slip and create a knocking sound. Inspect the pulley for wear and replace if necessary.

Is it safe to continue using my dryer if it makes a knocking noise?

It is not recommended to continue using the dryer if it makes a knocking noise, as it can cause further damage. Address the issue as soon as possible.