Why is Your Dryer Taking So Long? Here’s What Might Be Going On

We've all been there – you load the dryer with clothes, go about your day, and return hours later only to find that your laundry is still wet. So why does it seem like your dryer is taking forever to dry your clothes? In many cases, there are specific reasons behind this delay. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common causes and how you can fix them to speed up your drying time.

Why Is Your Dryer Taking So Long?

Several common issues could be causing your dryer to take longer than expected to dry your clothes. Some potential reasons include overloading the dryer, electrical supply issues, clothes being too wet, a clogged lint filter, blocked vents, or faulty parts. Let’s dive into these issues and how you can address them.

Is Your Dryer Overloaded?

One of the most frequent reasons why a dryer takes too long to dry clothes is overloading. When the dryer is overloaded, there isn’t enough space for the air to circulate around the clothes, which makes drying less efficient. This can result in clothes taking much longer to dry or not drying completely.

Solution: To avoid overloading, ensure you only load the dryer with a manageable amount of clothes. Try spreading the clothes out evenly inside the dryer to allow proper airflow.

Could There Be an Issue with the Power Source?

If your dryer isn’t drying clothes properly, it could be due to an insufficient power supply. A dryer needs to be connected to a 240-volt circuit to function correctly. Without this, the dryer may not receive enough power to dry your clothes efficiently.

Solution: Check that your dryer is plugged into a 240-volt circuit with enough power to run. If you’re unsure, consider having an electrician inspect your system.

Pro Tip: Never plug your dryer into an extension cord!

Is Your Washer Leaving Clothes Too Wet?

Your washer might be the culprit if your dryer takes longer than expected. If the washer isn’t removing enough water during the spin cycle, your clothes will be excessively wet when placed in the dryer. This will make it harder for the dryer to do its job and increase drying time.

Solution: Ensure your washer is leaving clothes only slightly damp before transferring them to the dryer. You can adjust your washer's spin cycle settings to help.

Is the Lint Screen Dirty?

If your dryer is taking multiple cycles to dry clothes, the lint screen might be clogged. A buildup of lint and dust on the screen blocks airflow, which means the dryer cannot dry clothes properly.

Solution: Clean the lint filter regularly to ensure air can flow freely through the dryer. You can clean it manually or, for convenience, place it in the dishwasher.

Are the Dryer Vents Blocked?

If your dryer is taking two or more cycles to dry clothes, it might be due to blocked dryer vents. Lint and dust accumulation can clog the vent, preventing hot air from being expelled properly, which delays drying.

Solution: Clean the dryer vent frequently to avoid blockages. Use a vacuum, a specialized vent cleaning kit, or hire a professional to keep the vent clear.

Could a Malfunctioning Part Be the Issue?

If none of the above issues seem to be the problem and your dryer still takes forever to dry clothes, it could be due to a malfunctioning part.

Solution: If you suspect a part is faulty, it’s best to have it checked and repaired by a professional dryer technician.

Get Professional Help Today!