Quick answer
First run the dryer empty: coins, zippers and buttons cause most sudden rattles. A rhythmic thump is usually worn drum rollers, a high squeal the idler pulley or belt, grinding the drum glides or bearing, and a loud hum with no tumble a broken belt or struggling motor. Level the dryer and stop using it if it squeals and smells hot. Angi puts typical dryer repairs at $100–$430. Call (888) 217-0236 to reach an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP; the line is answered 24/7.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed October 27, 2026· Next review Apr 2027
The kind of noise a dryer makes points to the part that is wearing out, and most of them are drum support parts that wear with every load: rollers, the idler pulley, the belt and the drum glides. Before any of that, rule out the simplest cause: something in the drum.
First, Check the Drum and the Load
Empty the drum and run the dryer with nothing in it. Coins, buttons, zippers and underwire are the most common source of a sudden rattle or bang. Check the lint screen slot as well, where small items collect. If the noise stops with the drum empty, it was the load.
Match the Noise to the Part
| Noise | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Thumping that keeps time with the drum | Worn or flat-spotted drum rollers, a heavy item in the load |
| High squeal or squeak | Idler pulley, drum glides or the belt |
| Grinding or scraping | Worn drum glides or bearing, something caught at the drum edge |
| Rumbling | Drum rollers or the rear drum bearing |
| Loud buzz or hum, drum does not turn | Motor struggling, belt broken, motor bearing |
| Ticking or clicking | Something caught in the drum seam, or a gas valve clicking normally |
Talk to an appliance repair technician
One call reaches an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP, answered 24/7.
What You Can Do
- 1Level the dryer. A dryer that rocks can rattle against the wall or the washer. Adjust the feet until it sits firm.
- 2Pull it away from the wall. Some noises are the duct or the cabinet touching the wall.
- 3Stop using it if it squeals and smells hot. A seized idler pulley or roller can burn the belt.
Rollers, belts and idler pulleys are often replaced together, because when one has worn the others usually have too.
What a Repair Costs
Angi puts typical dryer repairs at $100–$430, about $180 for the average job. Drum support parts sit at the lower end; a motor at the higher end. See the dryer repair page for the table with sources.
When to Call
Call once the drum is empty and the dryer is level and the noise is still there. (888) 217-0236 is answered 24/7 and connects you to an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP for washers, dryers, ovens, stoves, cooktops and freezers. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dryer thumping?
A rhythmic thump that keeps time with the drum usually means worn or flat-spotted drum rollers, or a heavy item such as a shoe in the load.
Why is my dryer squealing?
A squeal or squeak is usually the idler pulley, the drum glides or the belt. Have it looked at soon; a seized pulley can burn the belt.
Is a noisy dryer safe to use?
A rattle from the load is harmless. Squealing with a hot smell, or a loud hum with no tumbling, means stop and have it checked.
Sources
Methodology: How we source and verify data · Report an error
Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.
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