Why Is My Dryer So Loud? 6 Reasons Why

1. Items in the Drum

Even after emptying all the pockets, strange scraping or tapping sounds can still come from the dryer. Often, the cause is stiff fabric or overlooked objects that ended up inside during loading. Small items—like metal buttons, coins, or zipper tips—can produce surprisingly loud noises as they tumble. In some cases, the source might be a loose component, such as a screw that has come free and found its way into the drum.

How to Fix It

Pausing the cycle to look for anything unusual is an option, but tiny objects often go unnoticed. If the sound disappears after switching out the clothes, it was likely caused by something in the load. However, if the noise continues, take a closer look inside the drum—there may be something loose rattling around.

2. Unbalanced Load

When damp, large, or weighty items like jackets, sneakers, or thick fabrics can create a loud thudding as they tumble. This noise might give the impression that the dryer is having trouble rotating properly. A similar effect can occur if lighter garments bunch up or get twisted into a dense mass during the cycle.

How to Fix It

Pause the cycle and take a moment to examine what’s inside. If you notice a bundle of clothes stuck together, separate them to help the dryer run more smoothly. For oversized or dense items, drying them by air might be a better option. Running the dryer with an uneven load puts extra stress on internal parts, which can lead to faster deterioration and potential damage over time.

3. Loose Dryer Parts

A dryer relies on a combination of interconnected components to function properly. Over time, smaller elements—such as sensors, switches, or fasteners—can loosen or detach through everyday use. When this happens, you might start noticing odd noises like rattling, tapping, rubbing, or vibrating as the machine runs.

How to Fix It

Due to the intricacy of a dryer’s internal systems, many people prefer to call in a technician to diagnose unusual sounds or issues. However, if you’re comfortable taking appliances apart and reassembling them, you can try checking for anything that may have come loose inside. Pay close attention to things like the drive belt, mounting hardware, or electrical components that might be out of place.

4. Vibration

If your dryer is producing unusual vibrations, there could be a number of reasons behind it. In some cases, the drum might be rubbing against the inside of the appliance. A motor that’s under strain could also be to blame, along with worn-out or unstable drive parts. Even the surface beneath the dryer—if uneven or unstable—can contribute to unexpected vibrating noises.

How to Fix It

Vibrations coming from a dryer might be harmless—or a sign that something’s going wrong. If you’ve updated the flooring beneath the appliance, the solution could be as simple as leveling the feet. But if the shaking continues, it’s best to have it looked at promptly. Ongoing movement like this often points to worn-out parts inside, such as the drive belt, support rollers, or other key components that may need replacing.

5. Worn Drive Parts

Frequent sounds like squeaks, thuds, grinding, or rubbing often point to parts that have worn down over time. To operate smoothly and quietly, a dryer depends on several components, including a belt, roller wheels, an idler pulley, a drum bearing, and seals around the drum. These elements can deteriorate due to regular use and the friction they endure.

How to Fix It

For those comfortable with home repairs, swapping out worn drive parts on an older dryer can be a manageable task. It often involves removing the top panel or back cover to access and replace the damaged component. While this procedure is generally uncomplicated, modern dryers tend to include more complex technology that requires specialized tools and expertise, so it’s usually wiser to rely on an SD Appliance Repair professional for those models.

6. Motor Failure

When your dryer operates with a strained or odd humming sound, it’s usually a sign that the motor responsible for driving the drum is struggling. Addressing this issue by repairing or swapping out the motor is important to prevent a total breakdown.

How to Fix It

In many cases where the motor fails, replacing it is necessary. Repair costs for dryers typically range from $140 to $470, which covers motor repair or replacement. Although replacing the motor can be done by a skilled homeowner, hiring an SD Appliance Repair technician ensures parts come with a warranty and allows them to identify and fix additional problems.

When to Call a Pro

When strange noises persist and can’t be easily traced, many people choose to contact a nearby dryer repair expert. While fixing older models yourself can often be straightforward, modern dryers usually incorporate advanced technology that demands specialized equipment and professional know-how to properly repair.