A dryer that takes too long to dry clothes uses too much time with too little efficiency. Why is my dryer leaving clothes damp? Overloading can restrict airflow, elongating drying times. Determine why your dryer takes forever to dry with one of these common causes.
5 Reasons Why a Dryer Takes Forever to Dry
There are several possible reasons why your dryer takes forever to dry, including part failures that require a professional repair. However, most issues have a DIY solution that can quickly restore function and efficiency. Here’s how to pinpoint the problem and the right solution.
Issue With Incoming Power
Before assuming a dryer problem, first, check your power sources. Without consistent and adequate electricity, a dryer doesn’t dry clothes sufficiently.
Here’s how to assess power issues:
- Check the power cord: Make sure it’s plugged in properly and is free of damage.
- Make sure the outlet has adequate voltage: Gas dryers require a 240V outlet to dry properly, while electric dryers need a 120V outlet.
- Avoid extension cords: Most can’t reliably transmit the voltage a dryer requires, leading to surges that cut off power mid-cycle.
Too Many Clothes May Overload the Dryer
A dryer leaving clothes damp may be loaded with too many items. Overloading restricts the circulation of warm air and hampers tumbling so clothes take longer to dry. Consult your user manual to determine the exact capacity of your model dryer and avoid going over it when loading clothes. To maximize airflow and tumbling, it’s generally best to only load the dryer ⅔ of the way full.
Washer is Leaving the Clothes Too Wet
When your dryer takes too long it’s also important to consider your washer. Using a wash setting with an insufficient spin cycle means clothes will be wetter, elongating drying times. Check your washer setting to make sure it includes an adequate spin cycle for your wash load. If the setting is correct and your washer still leaves clothes wet, it may need a professional assessment.
Clogged Dryer Vents Will Slow Drying Times
Clogged or pinched vents are often reasons a dryer takes two cycles to dry. If the dryer vent is pinched, airflow will be restricted and elongate drying times. In addition, a buildup of lint in the vents will also restrict airflow. This happens more frequently if the lint trap isn’t cleaned after every drying cycle. Check the vent hose to make sure it’s positioned properly and is free of kinks. Meanwhile, cleaning your dryer vents every 6-12 months reduces the risk of clogs and improves air circulation.
Follow these steps to clear a clogged dryer vent:
- Unplug the dryer and move it away from the wall.
- Disconnect the vent hose from the wall and the dryer.
- Use a narrow hose vacuum attachment to remove any lint buildup inside the vent.
- Vacuum lint and debris from the exterior vent hood and its entrance on the outside of your home.
- Reconnect the vent hose, reposition the dryer and restore power.
Dryer Part Malfunction or Failure
What if your dryer takes forever to dry even after these troubleshooting tips? A part failure or malfunction may be at fault. For gas dryers, faulty gas valve solenoids may fail to open the gas vent, prohibiting gas flow to the burner. Similarly, electric model dryers may have a failed heating element that is unable to produce warm air. We suggest that a professional dryer repair service assess these malfunctions.
Appliance Parts Today has the dryer parts you need to resolve any issue. Whether your dryer takes forever to dry, runs loud, or no longer runs at all, our experts can help!
