If your dryer is squeaking, it can be a huge annoyance, but more importantly, it could be a cause for concern. Squeaky dryers could be a sign of a damaged motor, loose screws, or an uneven surface. In any case, figuring out the issue is the first step in preventing future harm to your appliance or house.
In this article, the skilled repair specialists at Top Shelf Services will discuss the possible causes of why your dryer may be squeaking, how to troubleshoot the problem, and how to tell whether your dryer needs to be repaired or replaced.
Is It Safe To Use a Squeaky Dryer?
How to Tell When It’s Time to Replace Your Dryer
Will I Need To Hire a Dryer Repairman To Stop My Dryer From Squeaking?
Is it Safe to Use a Squeaky Dryer?
We like to lead with safety first, so it’s crucial to ensure your noisy dryer is in excellent enough shape to run without becoming dangerous. Using the dryer until the cycle is finished is okay if you are currently drying a load and hear squeaking.
After your load is done drying, you should investigate what is causing the noise to resolve the problem as soon as possible. Ignoring the noise and pushing the equipment to its limit could pose a significant threat.
Diagnosing Dryer Issues
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You have two options for finding the cause of your dryer’s squeaking: do some independent research or call a nearby appliance repairman. You can identify the malfunctioning component once you determine whether the squeaking is coming from the front, back, or sides.
Here are some helpful tips to find out why your dryer is squeaking, along with simple DIY solutions to stop your appliance from making noise:
- It’s possible that the roller wheels or bearings are improperly greased. A squeaking sound may arise from the dryer’s wheels or legs if they have grown loose or uneven. The squeaking will typically stop if you apply a little WD-40 to them to lube them up. Simply tightening the dryer’s legs, if they are screwed in, will resolve the problem.
- Foreign materials are caught in the lint filter or drum of the dryer. Locating and removing objects like coins, paper clips, and other similar objects from the drum is simple. Please, disconnect the dryer before looking down the opening to inspect the lint filter. Use work gloves to remove any things that may be trapped there.
Ensuring that the vents are clean and in good condition may also be worth the expense of scheduling a dryer vent cleaning and inspection.
- The dryer belt is worn out. A dryer belt can become worn and broken over time since dryers operate at high temperatures. If the sound is coming from the top of the dryer, a creaking dryer belt can be the problem. By unplugging the dryer first, then opening the dryer cabinet, the user can check the belt for cracks or determine if it’s loose.
How to Tell When it’s Time to Replace Your Dryer
Although no one can predict the lifespan of their dryer, proper care and maintenance can prevent dangerous outcomes, costly repairs, and immediate replacements. Your dryer is a powerhouse, so when problems that lead to replacement begin to arise, they’re likely to begin as small issues (like noise) first.
Let’s look at a few of the main indicators that will tell you that it’s time to replace your dryer unit permanently:
You’re Wearing Wet Clothes
Do you still feel damp or wet spots when you take your clothes out of the dryer? Or perhaps you’ve observed that your dryer is running more slowly than usual. If so, your dryer may be seriously clogged and beyond repair. It might be time to replace the dryer if you can’t get rid of the debris or if you have to run the appliance numerous times to dry your clothes.
Excessive Noise
Do you frequently hear loud noises like pounding, rattling, or loud squealing? Your clothes dryer probably needs immediate repair or even replacement if it’s making strange noises. This frequently occurs as a result of a faulty blower wheel whose blades have become twisted over time. Replace the wheel if necessary, then test the dryer to see if the noise persists.
Past the 10-Year Mark
A dryer has a lifespan of 10 to 13 years on average. And no matter how amazing your clothes dryer is, it will eventually lose its efficiency. Many people wonder when to replace their dryers. If your dryer is older than ten years, you’ll probably need to look for a replacement soon.
Damaged or Exposed Wiring
We’re hoping that this one is a little clearer, but if you spot exposed wiring or a smokey smell, it’s time to act. You must address the exposed wire immediately since it could cause a house fire. The entire dryer may need to be rewired, but buying a new appliance is usually simpler.
Do I Need a Dryer Repairman to Stop My Dryer From Squeaking?
If you have applied the basic troubleshooting tips to stop your dryer from squeaking and the issue persists, your best option is to contact an experienced dryer repair technician nearest you. The following problems may be the root cause of why your dryer is squeaking, and if so, troubleshooting and repairs can be quickly completed by a trusted dryer repair specialist:
Idler Pulley Replacement
If the dryer is squeaking from the bottom, the idler pulley may be malfunctioning. The dryer would squeal if the pulley wheel was damaged or unfastened. In this situation, some dryers will need the entire pulley replaced, but others will simply need the wheel changed. A qualified dryer repair specialist can suggest what to do during a service call.
Drum Glide Bearings Replacement
Faulty drum glide bearings are another potential cause of a squeaky dryer. These bearings will produce a squeaking or rubbing sound near the dryer’s front. This component aids in the drum’s effortless rotation against the front seal. Even minor wear indicators could be enough to warrant replacing the component.
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