Dryer Making Grinding or Squeaking Noise
Squealing, grinding, thumping, or scraping sounds from your dryer indicate worn support components. The noise usually gets worse over time.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
Try these fixes before calling a technician
Check for objects in the drum
Coins, buttons, zippers, or bra wires can cause clicking and scraping sounds. Check pockets before drying and inspect the drum for loose items. Also check between the drum and the front/rear panels.
Identify the noise type
Squealing = worn drum rollers or belt. Thumping = flat spot on a roller from sitting idle. Grinding/scraping = worn drum glides or felt seal. Rattling = loose blower wheel or foreign object.
Run an empty cycle
Run the dryer empty to isolate the sound from load noise. If the noise persists when empty, it's a mechanical component. If it only happens with clothes, it may be zippers or buttons hitting the drum.
Inspect the drive belt
Unplug the dryer, remove the front panel, and check the belt. A frayed or cracked belt can slip and squeal. The belt should be tight around the drum with no visible damage.
When to Call a Professional
Don't ignore dryer noises — a worn drum roller or bearing can seize and damage the drum or motor. Most noise issues require replacing drum rollers, the idler pulley, or drum glides, which means disassembling the dryer.
West Metro Appliance Repair has completed 3,085 dryer repairs across 70+ Twin Cities communities. Our technicians see this exact problem regularly and can diagnose it quickly.
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