Simpson Dryer: making noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Simpson Dryer making unusual noises like squeaking or grinding? These sounds often indicate mechanical wear or foreign object interference during drum rotation. Common causes include worn drum support rollers, a faulty drive belt, and idler pulley issues. Addressing these problems early can prevent further damage and ensure your dryer operates smoothly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Simpson Models

  • Some community repair videos for Simpson dryers show drum bearing replacement as an effective fix for loud noises.

Possible Causes

Worn or damaged drum support rollers

How to Identify: Squeaking or grinding noise tied to drum rotation; noise increases with load; drum rough to turn by hand; visible wear on rollers/axles.

Part: Drum support rollers / axles

Faulty or worn drive belt

How to Identify: Thumping, slapping, or squealing noise; belt appears frayed, cracked, or loose if inspected.

Part: Drive belt

Idler pulley failure

How to Identify: High‑pitched squeal or squeak especially at startup; pulley feels stiff or rough when spun by hand.

Part: Idler pulley

Motor or blower wheel issue

How to Identify: Persistent grinding, buzzing, or multiple types of noise; noise unaffected by load balancing or roller/belt checks.

Part: Motor bearings or blower wheel

DIY Solutions

Remove foreign objects and clean lint

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: flashlight, vacuum
  1. Unplug the dryer.
  2. Open the drum and visually inspect for small items (coins, buttons) and remove them.
  3. Clean the lint trap and vacuum any accessible lint around the drum interior.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before internal inspection.

Level the dryer

Easy 5-10 minutes
Tools Needed: level, wrench or pliers
  1. Place a level on top of the dryer.
  2. Adjust the leveling legs by screwing in/out until the dryer is even.
  3. Retest dryer to see if noise is reduced.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dryer is stable to prevent movement during cycles.

Inspect and replace drive belt

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, nut driver, replacement belt
  1. Unplug the dryer and access the internal belt area via rear or front panel.
  2. Inspect belt for cracks or wear, remove the old belt.
  3. Install a new, correct spec belt and reassemble panels.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure correct belt routing; avoid working on motor area if uncomfortable.

Replace drum rollers or idler pulley

Advanced 1-2 hours
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, socket set, replacement rollers/pulley
  1. Disconnect power and access internal dryer components.
  2. Remove drum and inspect rollers or idler pulley for wear.
  3. Replace worn components with matched parts and reassemble.
⚠️ Safety First: Requires mechanical skill and careful reassembly; consult model service manual.

Professional Repairs

Motor or blower wheel replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

When to Call a Professional

Noise continues after basic DIY checks and part replacements.
Burning smells, smoke, or overheating detected during operation.
Motor or blower wheel suspected as noise source.

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint trap: Foreign object build‑up and friction noise
    Frequency: Every load
  • Annual internal inspection for wear on rollers/pulleys: Wear‑related noises and mechanical failure
    Frequency: Annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Simpson Dryer making noise?
Common causes include worn drum support rollers, a faulty drive belt, and idler pulley failure.
How do I fix Simpson Dryer making noise myself?
You can check for foreign objects, clean lint, level the dryer, or replace the drive belt.
How much does it cost to fix making noise?
Professional repairs for motor or blower wheel replacement can cost between $150 and $350.
When should I call a technician for making noise?
Call a technician if you encounter complex issues like motor failure or if DIY solutions don't resolve the noise.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Worn or damaged drum rollers or glides causing noise during tumbling
  • Loose or damaged belt leading to clunking and scraping sounds
  • Foreign objects trapped in the drum or blower wheel causing whirring noises

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace worn drum rollers or glides. Open the dryer door, remove the front panel, and check the rollers for wear. Replace if necessary. Reassemble the dryer.

  2. Check and replace the drive belt. Disconnect power, remove the front panel, and inspect the belt for damage. Replace with a new belt if it is frayed or broken. Reassemble the dryer.

  3. Remove any foreign objects from the drum or blower wheel. Open the dryer door and inspect the drum for any items that may have fallen in. Also check the blower wheel area for obstructions.

Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Replaced drive belt on dryer and now it is making a whirring...
  2. Dryer Drum Bolt Sheared Off

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