Hotpoint Dryer Making Metallic Grinding Noise:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

MCU logic and voltage paths.

Dryer operation is controlled by a Main Control Unit (MCU). The MCU energizes the motor relay, sending 120V AC to the motor windings. The motor rotates the drum and blower. Mechanical noises can arise from worn or damaged components in the drum support system, blower, or motor. Voltage is not directly related to the noise issue in most cases, focusing on the mechanical aspect is critical.

Symptoms:

US homeowner observations.

The homeowner reports a metallic grinding or scraping noise emanating from their Hotpoint dryer during operation. The noise may be intermittent or continuous, and may be louder at certain points in the drying cycle.

Possible Causes:

Worn drum support rollers.
Damaged blower wheel or housing.
Worn or broken drum glide.
Foreign object lodged inside the dryer drum or blower housing.
Worn or damaged motor bearings.

Solution:

1

Disconnect the dryer from the power source. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) the breaker.
2

Remove the dryer's front panel (typically held by spring clips or screws). A 1/4-inch nut driver and a putty knife may be needed.
3

Inspect the drum support rollers for wear or damage. Replace if necessary. Drum rollers typically rotate on an axle. Check for smooth rotation. If gritty, replace.
4

Examine the blower wheel and housing for obstructions or damage. Remove any debris. If the wheel is damaged, replace it.
5

Inspect the drum glides (or felt seals) for wear. Replace if worn or missing.
6

Check the motor bearings for excessive play or noise. If the motor is noisy, consider motor replacement or bearing replacement by a qualified technician.
7

Reassemble the dryer and test its operation.

Safety Warning:

LOTO and high voltage warning.

Always disconnect the dryer from the power source before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) the breaker to prevent accidental energization. Some components may store electrical charge even after disconnection. Use caution when working with electrical components.

Prevention:

Specific maintenance.

Regularly clean the lint filter after each drying cycle. Periodically inspect and clean the blower housing to prevent lint buildup. Annually inspect the drum support rollers and glides for wear.

Expert Tip:

Trade secret or service mode sequence.

Pro Tip: Use a stethoscope to pinpoint the exact source of the noise. This can help differentiate between motor noise and drum roller noise. Also, some Hotpoint dryers have a diagnostic mode accessible by pressing and holding specific buttons for a few seconds. Consult the service manual for your specific model.

Follow-up Questions: 3 relevant technical questions a user might ask next.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I determine if the drum rollers are the source of the noise?

Manually rotate the drum with the belt removed. Listen closely to each drum roller. A worn or noisy roller will exhibit a grinding or squealing sound. You can also visually inspect the roller surface for flat spots or uneven wear.

•What type of lubricant should I use on the drum support rollers (if any)?

It's generally not recommended to lubricate drum support rollers. The lubricant can attract lint and debris, potentially causing more harm than good. If the rollers are noisy, replacement is usually the best course of action.

•If the motor is the source of the noise, is it better to replace the motor or the entire dryer?

Consider the age of the dryer. If the dryer is relatively new (less than 5 years), motor replacement may be a cost-effective option. However, if the dryer is older, replacing the entire dryer may be more practical, especially considering potential issues with other components.

Hotpoint Dryer Making Metallic Grinding Noise: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I determine if the drum rollers are the source of the noise?

•What type of lubricant should I use on the drum support rollers (if any)?

•If the motor is the source of the noise, is it better to replace the motor or the entire dryer?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: