Don't ignore this dryer noise! If you continue to use a dryer with a worn drum bearing, you could end up burning out the motor. Then you'll be dealing with a much more complicated and expensive problem to repair.
It is not recommended to use a dryer if it is making a squealing noise. While it may not pose an immediate danger, the squealing noise is a sign that one or more parts of the dryer are malfunctioning (1).
If the subtle whir of your dryer has turned into a loud squeaking, grinding, banging or rumbling noise, there are a few possible causes: Worn bearings, idler pulleys or glides. Loose or unlevel dryer legs. Worn out drum bearings, roller shafts, drive belt or drum glides.
Thumping sound
For thumping sounds with contents in the dryer, it's often due to overloading or items hitting the drum sides. Reduce load size and turn items with large buttons or zippers inside out to minimize noise.
Banging, popping, squealing or grinding noises are telltale signs that a dryer is broken. If you're hearing banging and popping, the usual culprit is a worn-out belt. As a dryer belt wears down over time, it can cause the drum to move erratically and create the noises you're hearing.
Running the dryer while you're not home, and even sleeping, can be extremely hazardous. Like, burning your house down hazardous.
Burning smell when you run the dryer
It's probably dryer lint, which is very flammable. If you smell a burning odor, stop using your dryer immediately and have it inspected ASAP.
Don't overload your dryer. Overloading causes excessive heat which increases the risk of fire.
Replacing a dryer bearing averages $100 to $250, depending on the make and model. You can often tell that a dryer bearing is broken or worn out because the dryer makes a squealing noise, and the drum does not rotate smoothly.
A dryer is loud when it has a noise level of 67dB or more. Are you placing the dryer in the basement or in a shed? A loud dryer isn't a problem. If you sleep close to your dryer or live in a small space, look for a more silent dryer.
Dryer repair costs will vary depending on the issue. For example, it will cost much less to replace a dryer belt than a motor. That said, if your clothes dryer is more than halfway through its lifespan—7 years or more—and the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new one, you should consider replacing it.
Check the drum rollers and axles
When the rollers (and the axles they spin on) are damaged, broken, or worn flat, they can squeak, squeal, and even thump. If your rollers and axles look worn out, loose, or don't spin freely, it's time for new ones. Even if one axle is the problem, it's best to replace all of them.
Why is my dryer so loud all of a sudden? Dryers get louder when the systems inside of them start to break down. Parts of your dryer could be loose, worn out, or broken. Call a repair professional if you notice unwanted squealing, thumping, or grinding when you are trying to dry your clothes.
No. To avoid a fire hazard you should always ensure that you don't leave your dryer running when you're not at home. There should also be enough airflow around the dryer at all times. Fire authorities encourage regular maintenance and recommend you keep an eye on them while in use.
If you continue to use a dryer with a worn drum bearing, you could end up burning out the motor.
While a squeaky dryer isn't immediately dangerous, it indicates a potential problem. Ignoring the issue can lead to more serious problems, such as overheating or a fire hazard. It's best to address the issue promptly, either by troubleshooting yourself or consulting a professional.
Additionally, you may notice a burning smell, or notice that your clothes and the outside of the dryer are too hot. If you notice any of these symptoms, or suspect that the airflow may be obstructed, stop the dryer immediately, unplug it, and check the duct and vent when they have had a chance to cool.
Clothes dryer fires are more common than you might think. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that dryers and washing machines cause an average of 15,970 fires each year, with dryers causing 92% of them and an average of $200 million in property damage.
How Do You Know if the Dryer is Too Hot? The tell-tale sign that your dryer is too hot is damage to your clothes. If you pull your clothes out of the dryer and notice that there are burn marks on them, your dryer is running far too hot. If your dryer is hot to the touch, that may be another sign of too much heat.
A burning smell coming from your dryer is not a good sign—it's a fire hazard. Try removing any built up lint from the lint catcher, cleaning the inside of the dryer, and/or cleaning the hose duct and vents. If the smell persists, you may need to check the electrical components inside the dryer and have them replaced.