Why Is My Frigidaire Bearing Making Noise?

Dryer Bearing Function

• A dryer bearing is a stabilizing feature used to control the vibration of the dryer basket while the appliance is in operation. The type of bearing installed on your Frigidaire dryer varies by model number and year, although will usually be one of two options: a ball-and-socket bearing inside a larger cylinder or a shaft bearing attached directly to the dryer's main spindle. Without a functioning bearing, your dryer can't tumble cleanly. This increases the wear and tear on its moving parts.

Bearing Wearing Down

• The bearing in your Frigidaire dryer is a mechanical component and is prone to break down over time. Frequent use of the dryer with heavy loads increases the strain on internal components and shortens the life of the appliance. When the bearing wears down, you will notice an increasing level of noise emanating from your dryer. This noise often begins as a low whine but can quickly grow into a raucous wailing that fills your entire house. Shut down the dryer immediately and contact a licensed Frigidaire repair technician to examine the unit.

Clogged Dryer Vents

• Clogged dryer vents can cause heat produced from normal operation to back up into the dryer's mechanical components. Exposure to long periods of increased heat can hasten the demise of the bearing. The dryer will produce a whining noise consistent with a faulty bearing due the increased stress from higher than normal operating temperatures. Check all dryer vents for clogged dust, hair and other particulate matter. Unplug the dryer before attempting to reach into vents. If you can't discover the source of the clog, contact a licensed professional to examine the appliance.

Broken Bearing

• A broken dryer bearing will cause your Frigidaire dryer to make a loud noise. The dryer might also stop tumbling altogether because the bearing no longer stabilizes the drum. This issue alone can cause the drum to bang into other internal components, resulting in widespread damage to the dryer's mechanical parts. Stop operating the dryer immediately if you hear loud grinding and banging noises while the drying is in operation. Stopping the dryer in time could mean the difference between a replacement part purchase and needing to buy a new appliance.