Why is my dryer making unusual sounds?

If the dryer hasn't been used for a while, there may be a thumping sound during the first few minutes of operation. A coin, button, or paper clip caught between the drum and front or rear of the dryer can cause sounds - check the edges of the drum for small objects and clean out pockets before laundering. For gas dryers, the gas valve clicking is a normal operating sound. If the dryer is not level front to back and side to side, it may vibrate.