Restricted exhaust
A long, crushed or lint-packed exhaust duct traps moist air in the drum.
Appliance problem guide
Dryer Taking Too Long to Dry
Slow drying is often an airflow problem, sometimes a weak heat source, and occasionally simply a load that is too wet or too large.
Short answer
Clean the lint screen, make sure the washer is spinning clothes properly, and check that the outside exhaust flap opens with strong airflow. If drying is still slow, a restricted duct, a failing heat source or a sensor problem may need a technician.
For homeowners with a broken washer, dryer, oven, stove, cooktop or freezer. Not for refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, commercial appliances, parts orders or phone-only quotes.
What is usually behind it
Likely causes
Humid Alabama air already slows drying, so small restrictions show up quickly as longer cycles.
Washer not spinning fully
Clothes that come out of the washer very wet take much longer to dry.
Weak heat source
A failing gas igniter or a partly failed element can produce less heat.
Moisture sensor
On sensor-dry models, dirty sensor bars can end cycles early, leaving clothes damp.
Safe first checks
What you can safely check first
- Clean the lint screen and wash it if it looks clogged with residue
- Check that the outside exhaust flap opens and the airflow is strong
- Make sure the flexible duct behind the dryer is not crushed
- Check that clothes come out of the washer properly spun
- Wipe the moisture sensor bars inside the drum
- Avoid overloading the drum
Safety: gas and electrical work
Lint buildup is a fire risk. If the dryer feels unusually hot, smells of burning or the exhaust is blocked, stop using it until it has been checked. Unplug the dryer before moving it.
When to call
When to call a technician
Call if drying stays slow after the lint screen, duct and load size are checked, or if the dryer is overheating. A technician can check the heat source, thermostats and airflow.
Related services
Services that cover this problem
Start with dryer repair, part of washer and dryer repair.
Dryer Repair
Gas and electric dryers that will not heat, will not start or dry slowly.
Washer and Dryer Repair
Washers that will not drain or spin, and dryers that will not heat or start.
Markets and areas
Calling from your market
- Washer and Dryer in Birmingham, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Tuscaloosa, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Huntsville, AL
- Washer and Dryer in Mobile, AL
Markets
Regional areas
Go outside while the dryer runs and feel the exhaust flap. Weak airflow, a flap that barely opens or lint around the opening are signs of a restriction somewhere in the duct.
Yes. If the washer is not spinning out properly, clothes go into the dryer much wetter than they should. Check the washer first if loads feel heavy and dripping.
On sensor-dry models they can. Fabric softener residue on the sensor bars can make the dryer think clothes are dry. Wiping the bars with a little rubbing alcohol is a common fix.
Next step
Still not working after the safe checks?
Call to describe what the appliance is doing and get connected with an independent local provider.