Amana Dryer: squealing noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a high-pitched squealing noise from your Amana dryer? This often indicates friction between moving parts like the idler pulley or drum bearings. The noise may occur consistently or intermittently, impacting your laundry routine. Addressing this issue promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your dryer operates smoothly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Official Amana guidance highlights lint build-up around belt and pulleys and leveling issues as causes of squealing sounds.

Possible Causes

Worn or damaged idler pulley

How to Identify: Squealing increases as drum rotates; inspect idler pulley for roughness, inability to spin freely, or wobbling when the dryer is open.

Part: Idler pulley / idler assembly

Worn drum glide bearings or felt pads

How to Identify: Squeaking noise with drum rotation, especially near front; worn or missing glides/felt visible when drum is removed.

Part: Drum glides / felt pads

Lint buildup around belt/pulleys

How to Identify: Noise accompanied by restricted airflow; visible lint around moving parts on inspection.

Part: Belt/pulley area

Dryer not level

How to Identify: Drum squeaks during rotation with vibration; adjusting leveling feet reduces or stops noise.

Part: Dryer feet/leveling legs

DIY Solutions

Clean lint buildup around belt and pulleys

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, lint brush, vacuum attachment
  1. Unplug dryer from power source.
  2. Remove lint screen and access inside lint chute.
  3. Use lint brush or vacuum to remove lint around belt and pulleys.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before accessing internal components.

Level the dryer

Easy 5-10 minutes
Tools Needed: spirit level, wrench
  1. Place spirit level on top of dryer.
  2. Adjust leveling feet until dryer is balanced side-to-side and front-to-back.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dryer is stable and won’t move during operation.

Replace idler pulley

Advanced 60-120 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, pliers, replacement idler pulley
  1. Disconnect power.
  2. Remove dryer access panel to reach belt and idler pulley.
  3. Remove old idler pulley and install new unit, ensuring proper alignment.
  4. Reassemble dryer and test run.
⚠️ Safety First: Verify correct part for model; keep hands clear of sharp edges.

Replace drum support rollers

Advanced 90-150 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, socket set, replacement rollers
  1. Unplug dryer.
  2. Remove drum and old rollers.
  3. Install new rollers and reassemble drum.
  4. Test dryer for noise reduction.
⚠️ Safety First: Note roller orientation; ensure smooth rotation before reassembly.

Replace drive belt

Advanced 60-120 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, replacement belt
  1. Disconnect power.
  2. Remove access panel and old belt.
  3. Install new belt ensuring proper routing and tension.
  4. Reassemble and test.
⚠️ Safety First: Check belt alignment to avoid premature wear.

Professional Repairs

Replace drum bearings or drum glide bearings

Estimated Cost: $80 - $200

Inspect and replace drive motor if faulty

Estimated Cost: $200 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Squealing continues after replacing belt, idler pulley, and rollers
Bearings or motor suspected to be failing
Uncertain cause after basic DIY checks

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint trap: Lint build-up that can contribute to noise
    Frequency: after every use
  • Inspect belt and rollers: Wear-related squeaking noises
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Dryer squealing noise?
The squealing noise may be due to a worn idler pulley, drum glide bearings, or lint buildup around the belt.
How do I fix Amana Dryer squealing noise myself?
You can clean lint buildup, level the dryer, or replace the idler pulley and drum support rollers.
How much does it cost to fix squealing noise?
Professional repairs can range from $80 to $400 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for squealing noise?
If DIY fixes are beyond your skill level or if the noise persists after attempts to repair.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn drum rollers causing friction
  • Dryer belt is worn or damaged
  • Faulty motor bearings leading to noise

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace worn drum rollers. Open the dryer, remove the drum, and check the rollers for wear. Replace if necessary.

  2. Check and replace the dryer belt. Open the dryer, remove the drum, and inspect the belt for signs of wear. Replace if needed.

  3. Lubricate or replace motor bearings if they are faulty. This may require disassembling the motor, which can be complex.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Amana Dryer Noise

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