Amana Dryer Screeching Noise with Heavy Load:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Dryers use a motor to turn a drum, which is supported by rollers. A belt connects the motor to the drum, and an idler pulley maintains belt tension. The MCU controls the motor based on selected cycles. Resistance in the motor windings should be checked using a multimeter. Voltage at the motor should read 120V AC when running.

Symptoms:

The Amana dryer makes a loud screeching noise, but only when loaded with a heavy load of clothes. The noise is absent or significantly reduced with smaller loads.

Possible Causes:

Worn or damaged drum support rollers.
Worn or glazed drum belt.
Worn or failing idler pulley bearing.
Motor bearing failure.
Debris caught between the drum and cabinet.
Loose blower wheel.

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the 120V AC outlet. Disconnect the dryer vent.
2

Remove the lint filter housing and access panel (usually secured with screws). Use a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Inspect the drum belt for wear, glazing, or cracks. Replace if necessary.
4

Manually rotate the drum. Listen for the screeching noise. Identify its origin.
5

Check the drum support rollers. Replace any that are worn, cracked, or do not spin freely. Common sizes are 3/8-inch.
6

Inspect the idler pulley. Replace if the bearing is noisy or seized.
7

If the noise seems to be coming from the motor, a motor replacement might be necessary. Check motor windings for continuity using a multimeter.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect the dryer from the power source before performing any repairs. High voltage is present inside the dryer. Follow Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental energization.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint filter after each load. Avoid overloading the dryer, as this puts extra stress on the components. Annually inspect and lubricate the drum support rollers and idler pulley bearing with high-temperature grease.

Expert Tip:

Many Amana dryers have a diagnostic mode. Consult the service manual for the specific model to access this mode. It can provide error codes related to motor performance or other issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the drum support rollers?

Remove the belt from the drum. Manually spin each roller. They should spin freely and quietly. If they are noisy, stiff, or wobbly, replace them.

•What type of grease should I use for lubricating the rollers?

Use a high-temperature white lithium grease or a silicone-based grease. These greases are designed to withstand the high temperatures inside a dryer.

•How tight should the drum belt be?

The drum belt should have enough tension to prevent slippage but not so tight that it puts excessive strain on the motor and rollers. A good rule of thumb is about 1/2 inch of deflection when pressed midway between the motor pulley and the drum.

Amana Dryer Screeching Noise with Heavy Load: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the drum support rollers?

•What type of grease should I use for lubricating the rollers?

•How tight should the drum belt be?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: