Whirlpool Dryer: Making Loud Noise
Often worn drum rollers, a failing idler pulley, or a worn rear drum bearing. Add a photo of your Whirlpool Dryer in the box below: the Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.
Show us the dryer.
Snap a photo — see what it is, how urgent, who to call. One photo of the problem. fixRAgent reads it and gives you a Triage Profile.
Or start with a sentence
AR Logic LLC · Privacy · Managing this for someone else? There is a version of this for whole portfolios. Managers: set it up for your buildings →
In the next five minutes
Safe first steps, before the call. Nothing here needs a tool.
If you smell gas: don’t touch any switch or plug, leave, then call the gas company or 911 from outside.
No gas smell? Note what the noise sounds like and when it happens, then stop the dryer and switch off its breaker, or unplug it if the plug is dry and you can reach it without moving the dryer.
Take a photo of the dryer and any code on the display, without opening anything.
Everything else about this problem
Is it an emergency?
Is a loud noise from a Whirlpool dryer an emergency?
Usually not an emergency. A grinding, rattling or humming that has just started most often comes from a fan, motor, belt or loose panel. Stop using it and cut the power if the noise comes with a burning smell, smoke or sparks; if it runs on gas and you smell gas, leave and call the gas company or 911 from outside.
Symptoms & causes
Loud noises from a Whirlpool dryer often indicate worn-out components within the drum support system or motor. Common sounds include squealing, grinding, or thumping, which typically point to failing idler pulleys, drum rollers, or the blower wheel. A high-pitched squeal usually suggests a worn idler pulley, while a thumping or grinding sound often indicates failing drum rollers or a worn drum bearing.
Tools & parts
For common noise issues, you'll likely need a basic screwdriver set, a nut driver set, and possibly a putty knife to access internal components. Specific replacement parts like Whirlpool dryer idler pulley kits or drum roller kits may be needed. A replacement blower wheel may be needed if it is cracked or damaged, and so may a new drive belt.
Safety first
Always disconnect the dryer from its power source by unplugging it from the wall outlet before attempting any repairs to prevent electrical shock. If the dryer is hardwired, locate and shut off the corresponding circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel. Be cautious of sharp edges inside the dryer and wear gloves to protect your hands, especially when handling metal components.
When to call a pro
If the noise persists after replacing common wear parts or if the motor itself is making grinding noises, it often indicates a failing motor bearing, which is a complex and costly repair best left to a professional. A technician should also be called if you suspect an issue with the dryer's electrical system, such as burning smells or tripped breakers, as this can be a fire hazard. Furthermore, if the dryer drum is difficult to turn by hand even after replacing rollers and the belt, it might suggest a seized drum bearing or a more significant structural issue requiring specialized tools and expertise.
Questions people ask
Why is my Whirlpool dryer making a loud squealing noise?
A loud squealing noise from your Whirlpool dryer is most commonly caused by a worn-out idler pulley. This pulley maintains tension on the drive belt, and its bearing can fail over time, producing a high-pitched sound.
What causes a thumping or grinding sound in my Whirlpool dryer?
Thumping or grinding noises usually indicate worn-out drum rollers or a failing drum bearing. These components support the dryer drum, and when they wear down, the drum can wobble or rub, creating these distinct sounds.
Can a loose drive belt cause noise in my Whirlpool dryer?
While a loose drive belt typically causes the drum to stop spinning rather than making loud noises, a frayed or damaged belt can sometimes slap against components, creating a thumping sound. It's always good to inspect the belt for wear or damage during troubleshooting.
Related problems
More Whirlpool dryer problems
Check another symptom for your Whirlpool Dryer.
Making a loud noise: other brands
Guides and hubs
A resident sent you this?
fixRAgent reads resident photos for whole portfolios: what it is, how urgent, who to send, what to tell them.
Set it up for your buildings →Ask AI about this problem
What it is, how urgent, who to call
Add a photo of your Whirlpool Dryer in the box at the top. The Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.