How to Diagnose Tumble Dryer Motor and Noise Problems

A tumble dryer making noise isn’t usually cause for concern. When you hear it whirring away, spinning your clothes and making them nice and dry again, you know that everything is in order and functioning as intended. It is when you suddenly start hearing the tumble dryer making a grinding noise, squeaking, squealing, or clunking that you know something has gone wrong – but it isn’t exactly easy to diagnose the problem.

Whether it’s the motor struggling to start or you’re hearing a weird squeaking noise from the tumble dryer, we’re here to help. In this article, we'll show you how to diagnose tumble dryer motor and noise issues so you can get to the bottom of the problem and return your appliance to its working state.

To learn how to diagnose motor and noise issues in a tumble dryer, either watch our video or read the step-by-step guide below.

Keep in mind that throughout this guide, we will be using a Gorenje tumble dryer. Please note that some of this advice may differ depending on your particular model of dryer. However, the general guidelines will still apply. 

First, let's look at what the problem might be if your tumble dryer is struggling to either start or spin a heavy load. Most tumble dryer motors are brushless motors, and they work using induction along with a capacitor. In case you're unfamiliar with capacitors and what they are/look like, you can see one pictured below.

If the tumble dryer motor capacitor is faulty in any way, this will result in low torque to the motor. This means it won't have enough power to turn. So, if your tumble dryer is experiencing the problems mentioned above, the first thing to do is replace the capacitor, as this may resolve the issue.

🎥 Watch how to perform this repair in the video below, and don’t forget to get your brand new tumble dryer motor capacitor from eSpares:

If your tumble dryer is making loud noises or suddenly sounds different from how it used to, there are a few possible causes for this. Different sounds can point you to the potential cause of the issue, so let’s break them down. 

My tumble dryer is making a squealing noise

Potential cause: Worn-out/dried-out motor bearings

Solution: If this is the case with your appliance, the only solution is to replace the motor altogether. Other signs of this issue besides the noise involve excessive vibration from the appliance, the drum feeling stiff when you try to turn it, and overheating. You can acquire a replacement tumble dryer motor from eSpares.

My tumble dryer is making a squeaking noise

Potential cause: Worn-out belt tension pulley

Solution: The wheel on the side of the machine is called the belt tensioner, and if that wears down, it is going to produce an unpleasant squeaking noise while the drum is rotating. This might even sound like chirping at first and eventually turn into more of a rumbling. The dryer will not be as efficient, and you might smell burning rubber from the excessive friction. Once again, the solution to this issue is to replace the belt tension pulley.

🎥 Discover the steps to this repair in our video below and grab a replacement tumble dryer belt tension pulley today!

My tumble dryer is making a droning noise

Potential cause: Loose or damaged fans

Solution: If your tumble dryer fan (or fans, if your machine has multiple) has become loose, it might produce a number of different noises. You could potentially hear rumbling, droning, or humming. That means that drying will take much longer, and your clothes might also dry unevenly. The solution to this is to tighten the fan(s). It will likely be secured by either a screw or a bolt, in which case, you will need either a screwdriver or a socket set, depending on the model. In case you don’t have the appropriate tool, look through our DIY spares, tools, and accessories section on the eSpares website.

However, if the fan is damaged in any capacity (for example, you notice that a blade is bent), it will need to be replaced entirely.

🎥 Acquire your new tumble dryer fan today and watch how to complete this repair:

My tumble dryer is making a clunking noise

Potential cause: Distorted drum support wheels

Solution: At the front of the appliance, you will find drum support wheels that hold up the drum as it is turning. Over time, their shape can become distorted, which will produce a clunking or thumping sound. The best way to reduce the noise from your tumble dryer in this case is to replace the wheels.

🎥 Below, you will find a step-by-step tutorial that will guide you through this repair. Don’t forget to get your replacement tumble dryer drum support wheels:

My tumble dryer is making a grinding noise

Potential cause: Worn-out rear bearings

Solution: The rear bearings support the back of the tumble dryer drum, reducing friction and noise. So, if this part gets worn out, you will actually hear significantly more noise, which may sound like grinding or screeching. The drum will also be very wobbly when you try to move it by hand. As usual, these will need to be replaced to ensure that no further damage is done.

🎥 You can purchase replacement tumble dryer rear bearings on eSpares, then watch our video tutorial:

Now that you know how to reduce noise from tumble dryers and diagnose motor issues, your appliance should be back in action. However, if you are still experiencing troubles, we have a tumble dryer diagnostics playlist on YouTube that will hopefully help you out.

And if you are in need of tumble dryer spare parts or accessories, make sure to visit our online store!