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What Does “End of Cycle Signal” Mean on a Dryer?
The end of cycle signal is the buzzer that tells you the dryer has finished. Here is how it works and how to change it.
Last reviewed October 18, 2026. Written and reviewed by the Plano Dryer Pros team. How we create content
The end of cycle signal is a buzzer or tone that sounds when the dryer finishes, so you know to take the clothes out. Most dryers let you turn it off, or set the volume, from the control panel. If the buzzer will not stop, or sounds by itself, check the settings first, then the control.
Key takeaways
- It is a buzzer that sounds when the cycle ends.
- Most dryers let you turn it on or off, or change the volume.
- The control varies by model: a dial switch, a button, or a menu.
- A buzzer that will not stop may point to a control fault.
What it is
When a cycle ends, many dryers sound a tone so you do not leave the clothes sitting. It may be called “end of cycle signal,” “signal,” “buzzer,” “chime” or “alert.” It is a setting, not a fault.
What is the end of cycle signal on a dryer?
It is a buzzer or tone that sounds when the dryer finishes a cycle, so you know to take the clothes out. It is a setting that most dryers let you turn off or adjust. The name varies by model, so check your manual if you cannot find the control.
How to turn it on, off or change the volume
| Control type | Where to look |
|---|---|
| Dial dryers | A small knob or switch labeled Signal, Buzzer or Chime, often near the dial |
| Button dryers | A Signal or Alert button: press it to cycle through off, low and high |
| Touch-panel dryers | The settings or options menu, sometimes by holding a button |
| Smart dryers | The brand’s app, or the settings menu on the panel |
The exact steps differ by brand, so use your manual or look up your model number.
How do I turn off the buzzer on my dryer?
Look for a control labeled Signal, Buzzer, Chime or Alert. On a dial dryer it is often a small switch or knob. On a button dryer, press the Signal button until it shows off. On touch panels, check the settings menu. Your manual gives the exact steps for your model.
If the buzzer will not stop
- Check that the signal setting is off, or that the volume is lowered
- Open the door and close it again: some models stop the tone this way
- Switch the breaker off for five minutes, then on
- If it sounds by itself, or never stops, the control may be faulty and need testing
See the control board repair page and the dryer problems guide.
Why does my dryer beep when it is not running?
It may be signaling the end of a cycle, a lint reminder or an airflow warning. Check the display for a message or code. If it beeps with no message, or keeps beeping after you open the door, switch the breaker off for five minutes. If it continues, the control may need testing.
Sources
- Your dryer’s owner’s manual, which governs over any general guidance on this page, because control names and behavior vary by brand and model
- Plano Dryer Pros general guidance. See our Editorial Policy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I turn the dryer signal off?
On most dryers, yes. Look for Signal, Buzzer or Chime in the controls or the settings menu.
Why does my dryer beep during the cycle?
It may be a lint reminder, an airflow warning, or a code. Check the display.
Is the signal the same as the wrinkle guard?
No. The signal sounds when the cycle ends. Wrinkle guard keeps tumbling afterwards.
Does a loud buzzer mean a fault?
No. Volume is a setting. A buzzer that will not stop is the concern.
Get your dryer working again
Call and a person will answer, or request a repair online. You get the full price in writing before any work starts.