Dryers are supposed to quietly hum as they churn and tumble your clothes. If yours starts screeching, squeaking or making loud, high-pitched squeals when operating, it’s possible your neighbor’s parrot is hiding out in your laundry room or more likely that something within the dryer requires your attention. Here are some tips for what to do about a squeaky dryer.
Why is my dryer squeaking?
There are several possible answers for why your dryer is squeaking. These include problems with the dryer belt, the drum, or the rollers. The answer to the “Why is my dryer squeaking” question could also be that the dryer is not level. Whatever the cause, it’s best to do a little investigation before calling an appliance service technician. That’s because there is a chance you’ll be able to fix the problem yourself once the cause is identified.
How to fix a squeaky dryer
If you don’t know how to fix a squeaky dryer, you’re in luck. Some of the fixes are relatively simple. To start, it’s recommended that you find the Parts Manual for your dryer which can be found in the Service tab of SpeedQueen.com by searching by model number. The Parts Manual will help you locate the parts mentioned in this blog. You’ll also need a level, a screwdriver to remove covers, an adjustable wrench, and well-fitting work gloves to protect your hands while working.
What if it’s the dryer belt squeaking?
It’s possible that the cause of the high pitched squeals you’re hearing when your dryer is turning have to do with a worn dryer belt. To determine if it is in fact the dryer belt squeaking, you’ll need to take the panel off of the dryer. This process is different depending on model but look for fasteners and screws where the top and front panels meet. Once the cover is off, you can locate the drive belt. It wraps around the outside of the dryer drum. Look at the belt and determine if it is frayed, worn, stretched or cracked. If it is, you’ll want to have it replaced by an appliance service technician.
What if it’s the dryer drum squeaking?
Another possible reason your dryer is making loud squeals and noise has to do with the dryer drum. If you hear noise, always check inside the drum for coins, paper clips or other metal objects that could have fallen out of pockets and into the drum. If there’s nothing inside, another cause of dryer drum squeaking could have to do with the dryer drum rollers and their need for lubrication. Lubricating the dryer drum rollers should be done by an appliance service technician
Squeaking caused by an unlevel dryer
One of the likeliest causes of dryer squeaking can be a dryer that’s unlevel. To determine if your dryer is unlevel, simply put your level on the front of the dryer and then on its sides. The bubble in the level should rest between the center lines on the level. If the bubble is not in the center, your dryer is not level and this could be the cause of your dryer noise.
How to level a dryer
To level your dryer, you’ll need an adjustable wrench to turn the dryer leveling feet. To raise the dryer, you’ll need to turn the feet clockwise. To lower the dryer, you’ll need to turn the feet counterclockwise. You’ll want to raise or lower the feet until the dryer is level from side to side and front to back.
Note that even if your dryer is level, the feet could be the cause of the squeaking if they are loose. If you find that the dryer is level but the feet are loose, tighten the feet and see if that makes a difference.
When in doubt, call a professional
It’s important not to run a dryer that’s squeaking as you could be causing damage to the dryer. If you are unsure of the cause and your detective work doesn’t yield any clues, contact an appliance service technician.