For the last several weeks, maybe 20-30 loads or so, when I start my
15-year-old Maytag dryer, it has made a single thump as it starts.
The noise is exactly like the noise you get if you start a dryer with (for example) a sneaker or a really heavy wet towel or sweater in it. Except I get it even with loads containing no heavy items, and even if I start the dryer when empty.
No performance issues with the dryer. All loads dry nicely and in the usual expected amount of time.
I usually notice odd things right away and don't ever remember hearing this noise until recently. Any ideas what it is?