7 Reasons Why Your Dryer Is Squeaking and How to Fix It Without Calling a Pro

• A poorly leveled dryer will cause squeaking noises, so adjust the feet by either loosening or tightening them.
• If the dryer's belt is too loose, worn, or poorly lubricated, it needs to be replaced or properly lubricated.
• If the idler pulley or its mechanism fails, the belt can lose tension and squeak. You might also need to replace the motor.

Starting your dryer and hearing a shrill squeak can really put a damper on your day, especially if you're unsure what's causing it. Fortunately, there are a few common reasons why dryers squeak, and most of them are easy to fix on your own.

To help you get your dryer running smoothly again, we've listed seven reasons why your dryer might be squeaking and how you can fix it without calling a professional.

Reasons Why Your Dryer Is Squeaking

A squeaky sound could result from several different issues, including the belt, bearings, motor, or even lint buildup. Here's how to diagnose and fix the problem yourself.

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Cause: The Dryer Isn't Level

Although it may not seem like a big deal, an uneven dryer can lead to poor performance and squeaky operation.

Solution: Level the Dryer

To level your appliance, adjust the feet by screwing them in or out, and use a level to check the top of the dryer as you do so.

Cause: Internal Lint Buildup

Even if you're diligent about cleaning the lint filter, lint can still accumulate inside your dryer, causing squeaks and even potential fires.

Solution: Clean Out the Lint

To clean out the lint, you'll need to remove one or more of the dryer's exterior panels to access the area around the drum. Vacuum out all lint, focusing on the areas around the motor, belt, bearings, and pulleys.

Cause: The Belt Is Worn or Loose

Dryer belts wear out over time, and when they become loose or worn, they often start to squeak. If the belt is loose, it's probably worn, so it’s best to replace it.

Solution: Replace the Belt

Replacing a belt isn't usually hard, but it can vary depending on the dryer model. Here's the general process:

1. Remove the exterior covers.
2. Remove the drum.
3. Replace the belt, positioning the new one just like the old one.
4. Reinstall the drum and give it a test spin.
5. Reinstall the covers.

Cause: Worn or Poorly Lubricated Drum Bearings

The drum bearings help the dryer spin smoothly. If they wear out or aren't properly lubricated, they can cause squealing.

Solution: Replace or Lubricate the Drum Bearings

Remove the covers to access the inside of the dryer and inspect each drum bearing. If they appear to be in good condition, apply high-heat synthetic lubricant to the shafts they spin on. If they look worn or damaged, replace them.

Cause: Worn Roller Shafts

If you've replaced or lubricated the bearings and the squeal persists, the roller shafts might be worn. Worn or rusted shafts can squeak and damage the bearings.

Solution: Replace the Roller Shafts

To replace worn or rusted roller shafts, slide the bearing off, unbolt the old shaft, and bolt on the new one.

Cause: Broken or Loose Idler Pulley

The idler pulley provides tension for the belt to keep the drum rotating smoothly. If it or its mechanism fails, the belt can lose tension, causing squeaking and premature wear.

Solution: Replace the Pulley Assembly

Here’s how to replace the idler pulley:

1. Remove the drum and belt.
2. Unbolt the pulley assembly.
3. Bolt on the new pulley assembly and give it a test spin.
4. Push on the arm to ensure it has tension before replacing the belt.

Tips

In some cases, you can tighten the existing idler pulley by moving it closer to the motor.

Cause: Worn-Out Dryer Motor

In rare cases, the dryer motor itself could be the source of the squeak. This is a more complicated and expensive repair, so it’s often best to consult an appliance technician.

Solution: Replace the Motor or the Dryer

While replacing the dryer motor isn't terribly difficult, it can be hard to diagnose definitively if it's the cause of the squeak. An appliance technician can confirm this and potentially save you from replacing a motor unnecessarily.

Tip

If the motor is the issue, it might be more cost-effective to replace the whole dryer, as motor replacements can be pricey.

FAQ

Is it safe to use a squeaky dryer?

While the noise might be annoying, it's usually safe to use a squeaky dryer. However, the squeaking indicates a problem that could cause the dryer to stop working or overheat, posing a fire risk.

How much does it cost to professionally fix a squeaky dryer?

Fixing a squeaky dryer professionally will cost at least $180 to $200. This includes a service fee of $50 to $80 and an hourly rate of $50 to $100. Parts costs vary.

Can you replace a dryer belt without hiring a pro?

For most models, replacing the belt is a pretty simple process for those with some DIY experience. It usually involves removing a few covers, uninstalling the drum, swapping out the belt, and sliding the drum back into place.