Kenmore Dryer: making noise; not drying

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore dryer making unusual noises like rattling, squeaking, or grinding while failing to dry clothes effectively? This common problem can disrupt your laundry routine and indicate various underlying issues that need addressing. Understanding the causes can help you diagnose and resolve the problem quickly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore/Sears dryers often use specific OEM blower wheels, idler pulleys, and roller kits—ensure replacement parts match model number

Possible Causes

Worn or damaged drum support rollers and axles causing noise and reduced drum rotation efficiency

How to Identify: Unusual thumping or grinding noise, drum may not rotate smoothly by hand

Part: Drum support rollers and axle

Faulty blower wheel causing noise and reduced airflow leading to poor drying

How to Identify: Rumbling, vibrating or rattling noise; reduced airflow; clothes remain damp

Part: Blower wheel

Loose or worn drive belt causing noise and improper drum spin

How to Identify: Squealing, thumping sounds; drum may slip and not tumble properly, reducing drying performance

Part: Drive belt

Idler pulley or tension spring wear causing squealing/banging noises and affecting drum movement

How to Identify: High-pitched squeal or banging noise from bottom of machine area, tension issues

Part: Idler pulley assembly

Clogged vent or lint filter restricting airflow, reducing drying efficiency (not noise-specific)

How to Identify: Dryer runs normally but clothes are damp, warm air not exiting, possible extended drying times

Part: Vent system, lint filter

Faulty heating element preventing adequate heat for drying (not noise-specific)

How to Identify: Dryer runs, may make noise, but minimal heat production, clothes remain damp

Part: Heating element

DIY Solutions

Inspect and clean lint filter and vent hose

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum, soft brush
  1. Remove and clean lint filter
  2. Disconnect vent hose and remove lint buildup from vent path
  3. Reconnect vent hose and test dryer operation
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug dryer before disconnecting vent

Check for foreign objects and level dryer

Easy 5-15 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Open drum and check for coins, buttons, or debris
  2. Ensure dryer feet are level on floor
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dryer is off before checking interior

Replace drum support rollers

Moderate 60-120 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, ratchet set
  1. Unplug dryer and open cabinet
  2. Locate and remove old drum rollers
  3. Install new rollers and reassemble dryer
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before repair

Replace drive belt and idler pulley

Moderate 60-120 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, nut driver
  1. Unplug dryer
  2. Open access panels and locate drive belt and idler
  3. Remove worn belt and idler pulley
  4. Install new belt and idler assembly
  5. Reassemble and test
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure correct belt routing

Professional Repairs

Blower wheel replacement

Estimated Cost: $80 - $180

Heating element replacement

Estimated Cost: $60 - $150

Idler pulley assembly replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $120

Motor assembly diagnosis and replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after DIY part replacements
Dryer still not drying after vent and heating checks
Unusual electrical smells or smoke
Drive motor suspected faulty

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint filter: Restricted airflow and poor drying performance
    Frequency: after every use
  • Clean dryer vent hose and exhaust: Airflow restriction and overheating
    Frequency: every 3-6 months
  • Check leveling feet: Uneven wear and noise issues
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer making noise; not drying?
Common causes include worn drum rollers, a faulty blower wheel, or a clogged vent.
How do I fix Kenmore Dryer making noise; not drying myself?
You can clean the lint filter, check for foreign objects, or replace drum rollers and drive belts.
How much does it cost to fix making noise; not drying?
Professional repairs range from $50 to $350 depending on the issue and parts needed.
When should I call a technician for making noise; not drying?
If DIY fixes don't resolve the issue or if you're uncomfortable with repairs, it's best to call a technician.

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 or damaged drum rollers
  • Faulty idler pulley
  • Clogged venting system
  • Defective heating element
  • Belt wear or breakage

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 idler pulley. Access the pulley by removing the dryer belt and inspecting for damage or wear.

  3. Clean the venting system. Disconnect the vent hose and remove any lint buildup from the vent and lint trap.

  4. Test and replace the heating element if it's defective. Use a multimeter to check for continuity and replace if necessary.

  5. Examine the dryer belt for wear or breakage. Replace the belt if it shows signs of fraying or if it's broken.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Dryer making loud humming/buzzing/squeaking sound. Clothes t...

Community Discussions

loud humming/buzzing/squeaking sound; clothes taking very long to dry

Check tub rollers and idler pulley; consider purchasing a kit that includes those parts and a belt.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!