While some dryer sounds are familiar background noise, others are loud or different enough to indicate a problem. Why is my GE dryer making a loud noise? Scraping sounds could mean a foreign object is caught in the drum seal. Here’s how to troubleshoot a noisy GE dryer to determine if what you’re hearing is normal or cause for concern.
Do You Have a Noisy GE Dryer? Here’s How to Silence the Sounds.
Some dryer noise is so commonplace that it can be hard to distinguish abnormal sounds from normal function. We’ll specify which sounds are part of typical operations as well as how to tell if your noisy GE dryer needs immediate action.
Normal Clothes Dryer Noises
Every GE dryer makes noise when operating, indicating normal function. Typically the drum makes a gentle sliding sound as it turns and a low hum is heard as the motor runs. You may also hear your GE dryer squeaking when it first starts. This brief sound should cease after several seconds and is also part of normal operation.
Abnormal Dryer Sounds
As familiar as the above sounds may be, abnormal dryer noises are distinctly different.
The following sounds are not normal and require attention:
- Thumping noise as the drum turns
- Loud humming during operation
- Squeaking while the dryer is heated but not when its cool
- Persistent squeaking that is short but repeats every 2-3 seconds
- Scraping sounds as the drum rotates
How Do I Fix the Sound On My GE Dryer?
Not every abnormal sound indicates a part failure or professional repair. Sometimes, a simple adjustment can silence a noisy GE dryer.
Try these troubleshooting tips to stop abnormal dryer sounds:
- Make sure the dryer is level: If the leveling legs don’t sit squarely on the floor, the dryer may make a rattling or vibrating noise. Consult your user manual to determine how to raise or lower the legs on your model dryer so it sits evenly.
- Check for loose screws: Loose screws can cause squeaking sounds during operation. Check all visible screws and tighten any that are loose with a screwdriver.
- Look for foreign objects: Buttons, coins or paper clips can make rattling or scraping sounds if they’re loose in the dryer drum. Pause the drying cycle and inspect the drum, removing any loose debris. Be sure to check the drum seam and below the lint filter for trapped items that can make similar noises during operation.
Faulty GE Dryer Parts
If you still have a noisy GE dryer after trying these troubleshooting tips, it’s possible a faulty part is responsible.
The following parts can result in abnormal sounds and require a professional clothes dryer repair:
- Drive belt: The drive belt wraps around the dryer drum via two pulleys, rotating the drum via the motor’s power. If this long rubber belt tears or frays, you’ll notice the dryer squeaking when drum spins. If the belt breaks completely, the drum may not rotate at all. In either case, the belt must be replaced.
- Idler pulley: As one of the pulleys that holds the drive belt taut around the drum, the idler pulley can’t break or wobble. If it loosens or breaks it may also make a squeaking sound and must be replaced.
- Drum rollers: These components support the weight of the dryer drum and enable it to rotate smoothly. If they wear out over time, the drum will make a grinding or rumbling sound as it turns. Even if only one of the drum rollers is worn, all should be replaced at the same time.
Whether your dryer won’t turn on or makes loud noise, the technicians at Maughanster Appliance Repair can help. Schedule your expert repair today!
