Is it dangerous to use a dryer that's making loud rasping/grinding noises?

[BlogOnTheTyne]

Have already posted in GoodHousekeeping section but thought I'd also try here too. My dryer started to make very loud rasping/ grinding sounds mid cycle. The exact sound with each spin (and then pause) as it goes round - is - lower level grinding/rasping sound, followed by much louder grinding rasping sound. This 'rhythmn' is maintained all the time it's switched on.

The drum can't be spun independently so i can't check if there's anything stuck in there by hand-turning it. Can't afford time or money to get someone out to have a look.

It sounds like something 'deep within' the system rather than a small metal object rattling inside.

So - does this sound like it's dangerous to use - ie will it overheat and then cause a fire - or can I ignore the sounds and keep using it?

I wouldn't ignore. It sounds like maybe the bearings have gone. (not sure on this)

I would look at a repair or replacement.

I wouldn't ignore either.

Does it have a heat exchanger? If so I would remove that and clean it and see if it makes any difference. If not then I think you need to call an engineer out.

I wouldn't ignore. It stands to reason that constantly going round and round powered by a part is going to wear something out eventually.

Do you think the belt might need loosening? I wouldn't take a risk with a dryer
My old one started making a dragging noise and it set on fire

I have a spare tumble dryer in an outhouse, it had been making similar noices for a couple of years. I was quoted £50 for new bearings.

Perhaps I should stop using it.

No don't use it. But it might be fixable. It could just be that the drum has gone out of alignment. My (very old) dryer does that sometimes. Dh takes the top off it and, sorry I'm not sure what he does exactly, but he gets it going again. Sometimes they need a good vacuum out too inside as they get fluff in them.