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Is Your GE Dryer Making Squeaking Noises? Try These 6 Nifty Fixes!

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Jason Carter

Is Your GE Dryer Making Squeaking Noises? Try These 6 Nifty Fixes!

Let’s be honest:

High-pitched sounds are usually more agitating than lower-pitched noises. That’s why your squeaking dryer has led you here; you probably cannot stand it anymore.

Not only does it irk users:

The squeak, squeal, or any other high-pitched sound coming from your GE dryer is a tell-tale sign of a fault in the appliance.

You need to detect and diagnose this fault to repair or replace the injured part to avoid escalating the problem.

This stage is where we come in:

In this article, you will discover a carefully researched list of diagnostic and troubleshooting solutions for you to attempt.

How to Fix a Squeaky GE Dryer

To fix a GE dryer that is consistently making high-pitched noises during a cycle, you need to pay attention to some essential components. You could replace the faulty drum bearings, the drive belt, the idler pulley, the drum rollers, or the motor. Additionally, you could ensure that your dryer is placed on level ground.

1. Ensure That Your Dryer Is on Level Ground

Here’s the thing:

Your GE dryer might be squeaking because the dryer is unleveled, possibly because the dryer legs or surface is unbalanced.

This problem is not the most complicated in the books, and a simple dryer leg adjustment should do the trick.

To check if your dryer is on level ground:

Give your dryer a gentle nudge in whatever direction; if it rocks, then your washer has not been installed on a level surface.

You can also use a spirit level for a more accurate measurement; you’ll know the surface is even when the bubble is in the middle.

If it is indeed unleveled:

Adjust the length of the dryer legs until the spirit level reads that the appliance is level.

You could use a wedge to support the dryer or just move the machine to an entirely new room with more level ground.

In addition:

Loosened dryer legs could cause squeaking during a cycle, so it would be best to inspect the legs and tighten them as necessary.

You could also extend the tightening to loose screws around the dryer.

Now:

If your dryer is still making squeaking noises, then it is time to explore other more technical causes.

2. Lubricate or Replace Faulty Drum Bearings

GE Dryer Drum bearing kit

Look:

Worn-out or damaged dryer components are the most common causes of a squeaky dryer. 

Often:

You can detect the noise source by listening to the direction it is coming from.

If the noise is louder at the rear, then it is likely a drum-bearing issue.

Here’s the thing:

Drum bearings are located at the dryer cabinet’s back wall and aid the drive shaft in the spinning process.

If the bearings start to wear out, you will notice a distinct squeak during the cycle.

Bear in mind:

Although it might sound like a little squeak now, it will eventually grow into a roaring, grinding noise if not attended to.

Also:

If the bearings aren’t properly lubricated, your GE dryer will emit squealing noises as the drum spins during a cycle.

Wonder what to do?

First:

Apply three drops of 30-weight oil to each bearing; the one at the top of the shaft and at the bottom for lubrication.

Next:

Replace the worn bearings using a bearing replacement kit before it leads to a more serious defect.

You should be rid of the irritating squeaking sound after replacing and lubricating the drum bearings.

3. Replace the Worn Drive Belt

GE dryer drive belt

Again:

Listen carefully to your GE dryer to detect exactly where the noise stems from to fast-track diagnosis.

If the squeaking noise is louder at the top of the dryer, then the problem is probably with the drive belt.

Now:

The drive belt rotates the dryer drum during a cycle. If worn-out or stretched, the drum won’t be able to spin properly, resulting in an unpleasant squeaking or thumping noise.

Thankfully:

The drive belt is relatively simple to replace.

Do this immediately:

  • Step 1: Unplug your GE dryer and turn off the gas supply.
  • Step 2: Detach the top panel and lift it gently.
  • Step 3: You’ll find the worn drive belt wrapped around the drum. Inspect it and remove it if the damage is excessive.
  • Step 4: Replace the belt with a new one.
  • Step 5: Reattach the top panel and run a test cycle to be sure the squeak has gone.

Now:

You can purchase the replacement drive belt from any online or physical appliance store if the one-year warranty covers your device.

You’re good to go!

4. Replace the Faulty Idler Pulley

GE dryer idler pulley

Get this:

The idler pulley maintains tension on the drive belt to prevent slips and facilitate smooth rotation.

Like all machine parts, it is also prone to wear and tear over time and frequent use.

Now:

When the idler pulley is worn and faulty, you’ll hear a squeaky noise at first, but it could eventually become an unpleasant thumping sound.

You’ll need to inspect for damage and replace the component if its condition has deteriorated.

Follow these steps:

  • Step 1: Unplug your GE dryer and disconnect the gas supply.
  • Step 2: Unthread the panels and lay them aside.
  • Step 3: Remove the dryer cabinet to locate the idler pulley.
  • Step 4: Take the drive belt off the idler pulley and manually rotate the pulley to hear if it squeaks.
  • Step 5: Inspect for wear, breakage, or any other form of damage.
  • Step 6: If the damage is not extensive, simply apply a dab of lithium grease to silence the squeak temporarily.
  • Step 7: If it is damaged, you’ll need to replace it with another.
  • Step 8: Install the new idler pulley.
  • Step 9: Reassemble your GE dryer and run a cycle to test if you’ve eradicated the squeak.

Best of luck!

Side note:

You can tell the idler pulley is flawed if the squeaking sound seems to be coming from the bottom front of the dryer.

Also:

Remember to contact an appliance technician to assist with repairs and replacements if you are not technically inclined.

5. Replace the Damaged Drum Rollers and Axles

GE dryer drum roller

The thing is:

The drum rollers in your GE dryer support the drum as it rotates during a cycle.

When slightly worn out, they would typically make a squeaky noise until the damage worsens and loud thumping develops.

Also:

The axles supporting the rollers can also get damaged due to friction, adding more unusual noises to the orchestra.

Now:

Some GE dryer models have two rollers at the rear of the dryer, while others have an additional two in the front.

You see:

We recommend replacing all the rollers if one is faulty as a preventive measure.

The idea is that because one is bad and they were installed simultaneously; the rest will eventually get bad soon.

Furthermore:

To determine whether the drum rollers and axle are damaged, you must inspect them. Make sure the rollers spin freely; if they don’t, they should be replaced.

Here’s what to do:

  • Step 1: Unplug your GE dryer and turn off the gas supply.
  • Step 2: Disassemble the dryer.
  • Step 3: Locate and remove the drive belt, then spin the drum manually and listen to find out where the noise comes from.
  • Step 4: If there is tightness in the rotation and visible signs of damage, replace all the rollers and the axle.
  • Step 5: Reassemble the machine and run a test spin to be sure the squeak is gone.

Listen:

You can access genuine replacement parts from the verified GE appliance store to protect your machine from counterfeit components.

Please be cautious if you’re conducting these repairs and replacements yourself.

6. Replace the Defective Motor

GE dryer drive motor

Finally:

If you have gone through all the other troubleshooting options and you still haven’t found your solution, then this might just be it.

Functionally:

The drive motor propels the dryer drum and blower wheel by transmitting the required amount of driving force.

It is one of the essential components of a GE dryer.

Now:

If the drive motor bearings are worn-out or in need of lubrication, the motor will produce a squeaking sound.

But because of how essential the part is, you’d have to give it a proper diagnosis before concluding.

You see:

This is an intricate process, so we recommend you schedule an appointment with certified GE appliance technicians.

They have the training and are equipped with the tools and knowledge to diagnose and effectively replace a damaged drive motor accurately.

Well:

After trying these fixes, your GE dryer should stop squeaking and run comfortably.

Models Most Affected

Now:

We know the causes and fixes for a squeaky GE dryer. We also know that not all GE models are prone to this problem.

Based on reputation alone:

If your GE dryer is squeaking and squealing, it is probably one of these models.

1. GE Adora Electric Dryer

GE Adora Front Load

Here’s the thing:

The GE Adora is a front-load electric dryer with an energy-saving feature intended to limit utility expenses without compromising efficiency.

It has several features, like the steam option, that bring out the best in your fabrics.

However:

This dryer makes an irritating squeaking noise when a component or more malfunctions. Luckily, if you follow the guidelines above, this issue will be relatively easy to fix. 

2. GE Unitized Spacemaker

GE Unitized Spacemaker

Designed around saving space in the household, the GE Unitized Spacemaker is a stacked combination of a washer and dryer.

It also has intuitive rotary controls for easy cycle selection and is manufactured with automatic load sensing and cycle status lights.

Now:

Consumers have reported that this set makes unpleasant high-pitched noises during a cycle until they get it checked by a professional.

But you’re lucky, aren’t you? You’ve got all you need in this article!

3. GE Profile Gas Dryer

GE Gas Dryer

The GE Profile gas dryer uses thermostats for temperature control to achieve the best heat for laundry drying without wearing and overdrying fabrics.

It features a durable alloy drum interior with installed lights for improved visibility.

Sadly:

This dryer model makes distasteful whining noises during the cycle to signal a faulty component.

Conclusion

Everybody knows:

If your GE dryer is squeaking, squealing, or making any other high-pitched sound, it is likely due to a component defect.

These noises can be extremely annoying and could lead to further machine damage.

As such:

Your utmost priority should be detecting the fault and getting it repaired.

Try these six troubleshooting solutions to stop your GE dryer from making high-pitched noises:

  • Ensure your dryer is on level ground.
  • Lubricate or replace faulty drum bearings.
  • Replace the worn drive belt.
  • Replace the faulty idler pulley.
  • Replace the damaged drum rollers and axles.
  • Replace the defective motor.
  • Check for an obstruction in the blower wheel.

After trying these:

The disturbing whiny noises should cease, and your laundry process should be much more comfortable.

However:

In the rare event that our suggestions are not enough to fix your dryer, feel free tocontact GE Customer Support for assistance.

They have the tools and technical know-how to diagnose and solve any problems you might be having.

Also:

If the one-year warranty still covers your device, then you get to enjoy free replacement parts and machine servicing.

Finally:

Remember to share your additions, thoughts, and questions in the comment section below!


Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Fix a Squeaky GE Dryer?

The most common solutions for a squeaky GE Dryer involve replacing defective parts like the drum bearings, idler pulley, drive belt, or motor.

You should also ensure that your dryer is balanced and the blower wheel is not obstructed.

Why Is My GE Dryer Squeaking?

Your GE dryer is most likely squeaking because the motor, bearings, idler pulley, or roller shafts are worn and need to be replaced.

Also, an unleveled washer or obstruction in the blower wheel could lead to irritating squeaking.

How Do I Lubricate my GE Dryer?

To lubricate your GE dryer, you must first locate the drive belt to find the drum bearings. Once you’ve found them, apply three drops of 30-weight oil on the top and bottom bearing.

How Do I Know If My GE Dryer Bearing Is Bad?

You can diagnose a defective GE dryer drum bearing by listening for squeaking after removing the dryer belt and rotating the drum manually.

If it squeaks or squeals, the bearing is worn-out and needs to be replaced, as it cannot be repaired.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Squeaking Dryer?

If you’re getting your dryer professionally fixed, it should cost anything from $75 to $450, depending on the cause of the problem.

Some issues are more minor and less expensive to repair than others, like the dryer belt, which is relatively cheap to replace.

2 thoughts on “Is Your GE Dryer Making Squeaking Noises? Try These 6 Nifty Fixes!”

  1. Hello
    I have GE profile gas cloth dryer (model DPVH880GJMG). It make some squeaking noise when running. I saw lots of your video for oiling bearing and checking pulley and drive belt. However, I have not been to open the back or top panel to access inside. Please provide a link of video how to open this dryer.
    Appreciate

    Reply

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