Clothes dryers are one of the most-used appliances in any home. Just because your dryer is heating properly doesn't mean it isn't suffering from other issues. If your dryer starts making unusual noises, it could be a sign that it's time for repair. Here are three possible causes of a noisy clothes dryer.

1. Worn Drum Rollers

Drum rollers are small wheels containing bearings that support the dryer drum as it spins. If you hear a squealing or screeching sound from your dryer, the rollers may be to blame. Drum roller bearings can become worn or break down over time and create alarming noises.

If the rollers are worn, the dryer drum may wobble as it moves or may fail to move freely. Neglecting to maintain the rollers will eventually prevent the drum from moving at all. An appliance repair technician can disassemble your dryer and replace the rollers if necessary.

2. Frayed Drum Belt

Rollers support the dryer drum as it moves, but the drum belt is responsible for transferring torque from the drive motor to move the drum. Unfortunately, the belt is also vulnerable to wear. Using your dryer regularly subjects the drum belt to friction and force that may cause it to fray over time.

A frayed drive belt may produce a thumping noise as it fails to turn the drum and knocks against it or the surrounding housing. On most dryers, you can visually inspect the drive belt by unplugging your dryer and removing the front panel. If you see cracks or fraying, call a professional for repair.

3. Unbalanced Blower Wheel

The drum and the components that turn it aren't the only moving parts inside a clothes dryer. The blower wheel moves heated air across your clothes and into the exhaust vent so that moisture can escape outside. If the blower wheel becomes unbalanced, it may rattle or rumble when your dryer is in use. 

When you hear these sounds, you can perform a quick test by starting your dryer, shutting it off, and listening closely. The blower wheel will continue to turn for a few moments after the dryer shuts off. If you still hear the noise during this time, you can be fairly confident that the blower wheel needs repair or rebalancing.

Strange noises are often the first symptom of a problem with your clothes dryer. Call an appliance repair technician right away if your dryer isn't running as quietly as it used to. For more information, contact a company like A-Appliance Xperts Inc.