Speed Queen Dryer Making Loud Noise

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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 loud noise from your Speed Queen dryer is often caused by a worn drum roller, loose drum, or foreign objects inside. Turn off the dryer, unplug it, and inspect the drum and rollers for damage or debris.

Confirm the symptom

Loud noise during the drying cycle
Noise increases when the dryer is running
Unusual rattling or grinding sound

Tools and prep

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Flashlight
Work gloves
Plastic putty knife
Owner's manual
New drum rollers or belt if needed
Empty space to work

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Unplug the Dryer
Do: Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet to ensure safety.
Observe: Dryer is completely powered off.
Means: Electrical safety is ensured.
Next: Check for foreign objects
Check for Foreign Objects
Do: Open the dryer door and visually inspect the drum for any foreign objects or lint buildup.
Observe: Any objects or excessive lint found.
Means: Objects or lint may be causing the noise.
Next: Remove any objects and clean lint
Remove Any Objects and Clean Lint
Do: Use a flashlight and plastic putty knife to remove any objects and clean lint from the drum and around the drum area.
Observe: Drum is clear of objects and lint.
Means: Potential noise source is removed.
Next: Test the dryer
Test the Dryer
Do: Plug the dryer back in and run a short drying cycle to see if the noise persists.
Observe: Noise is gone or still present.
Means: Determines if the issue is resolved.
Next: Inspect drum rollers if noise remains
Inspect Drum Rollers
Do: Access the drum rollers by removing the front or back panel (refer to the owner's manual for instructions).
Observe: Worn, cracked, or loose drum rollers.
Means: Worn rollers can cause loud noises.
Next: Replace worn drum rollers
Replace Worn Drum rollers
Do: Remove the old drum rollers and install new ones using the appropriate tools.
Observe: New drum rollers are securely installed.
Means: Should eliminate the noise caused by worn rollers.
Next: Reassemble and test the dryer
Reassemble and Test the Dryer
Do: Reattach the panel and plug in the dryer. Run a test cycle to ensure the noise is gone.
Observe: Dryer runs quietly.
Means: Issue is resolved.
Next: Complete

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Worn Drum Rollers Drum rollers support the drum and allow it to rotate smoothly. When they wear out, they can cause loud noises.	Common	Medium	Drum rollers
Loose or Damaged Drum A loose or damaged drum can create loud noises as it moves during the drying cycle.	Sometimes	Hard	Drum assembly
Foreign Objects in the Drum Objects like buttons or coins can get stuck in the drum and create noise.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Worn Idler Pulley The idler pulley keeps tension on the dryer belt. A worn pulley can cause a squealing or grinding noise.	Sometimes	Medium	Idler pulley
Loose Screws or Parts Loose screws or parts can vibrate and create noise during operation.	Sometimes	Easy	Screws
Worn Bearings Worn bearings in the drum or motor can cause a grinding noise.	Rare	Hard	Bearing kit
Faulty Motor A faulty motor can cause loud noises, especially during startup.	Rare	Hard	Motor

Parts matching

Common parts needed for a Speed Queen dryer making loud noise:

Drum rollers
Idler pulley
Dryer belt
Drum assembly
Screws and hardware kit

Always refer to your dryer's model number when purchasing replacement parts to ensure compatibility.

When to call a professional

The noise persists after replacing drum rollers and checking for foreign objects
You are unable to access or replace parts safely
The dryer makes a loud noise during startup or operation even after troubleshooting
You suspect a faulty motor or electrical issue
You are unsure about the cause of the noise and lack the necessary tools or experience

FAQ

Can a loud noise from my Speed Queen dryer be dangerous?

A loud noise itself is not dangerous, but it can indicate a mechanical issue that may lead to further damage or a fire hazard if not addressed.

How often should I clean my dryer to prevent loud noises?

Clean the lint filter after each use and inspect the drum and vent system every 6 months to prevent lint buildup and potential noise issues.

Can I replace drum rollers myself?

Yes, replacing drum rollers is a common DIY repair. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure the dryer is unplugged before starting.

Why is my dryer making a grinding noise?

A grinding noise is often caused by worn drum rollers, bearings, or a faulty motor. Inspect these components to identify the source of the noise.

What should I do if I find a foreign object in the drum?

Turn off and unplug the dryer, then carefully remove the object using gloves or pliers. Clean the area and test the dryer to ensure the noise is gone.