A dryer that suddenly sounds like it has gravel inside is asking for attention. The answer may be a coin in the drum, but a persistent squeal or grinding sound can involve the parts supporting its movement.
Check the simple possibilities with the machine stopped and cool. Do not assume every noise means bearings, and do not keep running it until something finally breaks.
Empty the drum and inspect what you can see
Look for coins, screws and other loose objects. Clothing hardware can rattle during a normal load, especially metal zippers or buttons. Check that the lint filter is seated correctly and that accessible drum surfaces have no obvious damage.
Do not reach deep into a vent or between the drum and cabinet. A trapped object beyond normal owner access should be removed safely during service.
Pay attention to the rhythm
A sound once per rotation may be useful evidence of something associated with the drum’s movement. A continuous high squeal can suggest a different moving part. A noise that appears only after warming up is also worth noting.
These patterns guide inspection; they do not identify a part with certainty. Different dryer designs use different rollers, glides, bearings and pulleys.
Installation can transmit noise
Check for an accessible object touching the cabinet and confirm that the dryer stands securely according to its installation instructions. A cabinet vibrating against a wall can make ordinary movement sound worse.
Do not move a connected gas dryer or bend the exhaust duct to create clearance on a guess. If access is tight, leave the positioning check to service.
Avoid the lubricant shortcut
Spraying oil into the cabinet is not a proper diagnosis. Some components are replaced rather than lubricated, and the wrong product can attract debris or get onto clothing. A temporary reduction in noise does not establish that the machine is repaired.
If a pulley or support has worn, a repair should consider the related belt and contact surfaces. Changing only the loudest part may leave damage that caused the noise in the first place.
When to stop immediately
Stop for harsh metal scraping, a drum that struggles to turn, burning odors or damage to clothes. Do not run an extra cycle solely to collect a better recording. A recording you already have and a clear description are enough to start the conversation.
Make your call specific
Tell the technician whether the noise happens from a cold start, after warming up, with every load or only certain items. Include whether drying time has changed. A dryer can have a noise problem and an airflow problem at the same time; both deserve attention if the symptoms are present.
Before you schedule a visit
Take a photo of the model and serial label, and write down when the problem started. If the display shows an error, photograph the full code before clearing it. Mention recent installation work, a power outage, a move, or anything you already tried. Those details help narrow the diagnosis and identify the correct parts for your exact appliance.
Keep the owner’s manual handy. Controls, serviceable filters, installation requirements and normal sounds vary by model. A symptom can point toward several components; it cannot confirm which part needs replacement.
For local diagnosis and repair, see our dryer repair page.
Related troubleshooting guides
- Dryer Takes Two Cycles? Heat Is Only Half the Job
- Dryer Won’t Start? The Click You Hear Is a Clue
- Dryer Runs but the Drum Won’t Turn? Stop Before Another Cycle
Further reading: Manufacturer guidance for this symptom. Checked October 9, 2026. Follow the instructions for your model.
Need a hand with your dryer?
Call or text Mason at Hedlund Appliance Service: (904) 335-8206. Tell me what the appliance is doing, send the model number if you have it, and let’s get your repair visit scheduled. Serving Jacksonville and the Beaches.