The low hum and gentle tumbling of a dryer can be so familiar they’re almost comforting. However, while these sounds indicate normal function, it may go without saying that bangs, squeaks, or screeches are not. We’ll troubleshoot the most likely causes for a Whirlpool dryer making noise from overloading to a worn drum roller.
Bangs, Squeaks, and Squeals: How to Silence a Whirlpool Dryer Making Noise
When you ask, “Why is my dryer so loud?” sometimes it only leads to more questions. Is there a faulty part? What part has malfunctioned? Will my dryer need repair? We’ll help answer these questions with the most likely causes for a Whirlpool dryer making noise and how to fix it.
Dryer Overloaded
The common practice of overloading is often responsible for a dryer making loud noise. Overloading a dryer by filling it to the top or with more than one wash load can cause an imbalance from clumps of clothing. When these clumps try to tumble in restricted dryer space, they can make loud thumping or bumping sounds. Repeatedly overloading a dryer can also strain dryer parts, increasing the likelihood of malfunctions.
We suggest filling your dryer with just one wash load per drying cycle to avoid overloading. Filling it only ¾ of the way full can also prevent loud noises and parts failures.
Drive Belt Loose or Damaged
A dryer’s drive belt has the important job of turning the dryer drum as it spins. The belt is suspended between two pulleys and turns the drum as the pulleys are powered by the dryer’s motor.
Most dryer belts are made of rubber and, given their constant motion while the dryer is in use, can be subject to wear and tear. A loose or damaged dryer belt will cause the drum to make loud bumping or thumping sounds. When this happens the belt cannot be repaired and requires replacement.
Drum Roller Worn Out
A worn drummer roller can also be responsible when your Whirlpool dryer runs loud. Dryers have at least two support rollers in the rear of the drum that help it rotate. If one or more of these rollers wear out, the drum won’t rotate smoothly and you may hear a loud thumping sound.
You can diagnose a worn drum roller by inspecting it for signs of wear and tear. Even if only one drum roller appears worn we suggest replacing all of them at the same time.
Blower Wheel Clogged or Malfunctioning
If your Whirlpool dryer making noise sounds like screeching or squealing it could be caused by a blower wheel complication. The blower wheel helps circulate hot air and push it out through the dryer’s vent system. Loud noises can result if small, loose items clog the blower wheel. They can also occur if a loose blower wheel sleeve makes the wheel wobbly.
Here’s how to assess for blower wheel malfunctions:
- Disconnect the vent from the dryer. This can also be a good time to assess your vent system for a dryer vent cleaning.
- Turn on the dryer
- If airflow seems weak, a blower wheel malfunction is likely
- Check the blower wheel for obstructions, removing visible blockages
- If there are no blockages, the blower wheel likely requires replacement
Don’t let a Whirlpool dryer making noise leave you with headaches. Call Mid America Service for an expert dryer repair to silence the sound!
