How to Diagnose Tumble Dryer Motor and Noise Problems

If your tumble dryer is experiencing motor and noise problems, whether that's due to the motor struggling to start or your dryer making unusual or excessive noise, it isn't always easy to diagnose the problem. That's why 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.

Throughout this guide, we will be using a Gorenje tumble dryer. Please note that some of this advice may differ slightly depending on your particular model of dryer, but it should generally be similar.

Let's get started! To learn how to diagnose motor and noise issues in a tumble dryer, either watch our video below or read the step-by-step guide beneath.

Remember, if you're going to carry out any work on an appliance, you should always make sure it's switched off and unplugged from the wall first for your own safety.

First, let's look at what the problem might be if your tumble dryer is struggling to either start or turn 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 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.

However, it's worth noting that some tumble dryers are different from others and will have the capacitor housed in the control panel. This is less common, but if this is the case with your dryer, the problem may be a control board issue. If so, you will need to replace the whole control board.

If your tumble dryer's motor is making strange or excessive noises, there are a few possible causes for this. To demonstrate to you what these causes may be and where they might be coming from, we're going to look inside the appliance.

If your tumble dryer is making a kind of squealing noise, it will likely be because the bearings have become worn down or dried out.

However, another source of a squealing noise is the belt tension pulley beside the motor, as pictured below. If this wears down it will also produce a nasty squealing noise. If so, you will need to replace the tension pulley.

Another source of noise in your tumble dryer could be the fan or fans. The Gorenje dryer we're using for this demonstration has two fans, one inside the appliance and one on the back as pictured below. If the fan or fans in your tumble dryer become loose, they will produce a kind of droning noise, meaning you will need to tighten them up. Alternatively, the fan or fans can also become out of balance, in which case you will need to replace them.

Moving to the front, your dryer has drum support wheels which support the drum as it spins. Over time, their shape can become distorted, resulting in your tumble dryer making a kind of thumping noise as the drum turns. Again, the support wheels will need replacing if this is the case with your dryer.

Finally, if your tumble dryer is producing a kind of grinding noise as it spins, this will likely be due to worn bearings at the back of the dryer. As usual, these will need to be replaced to resolve the problem.

And there you have it! All you need to know about diagnosing tumble dryer motor and noise issues. Remember, if you need any further help with any of these issues, or any other issues your tumble dryer might be experiencing, our Advice Centre is here to help.

Once your tumble dryer is back in action, it's also a good idea to familiarise yourself with its various settings and programs. Doing so will ensure you're using your appliance as efficiently and effectively as possible, which will not only provide the best performance but also help your dryer last for longer. To learn more, check out our complete guide to tumble dryer settings and how to use them.

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