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4 Reasons Why Your Dryer Isn’t Working as It Should
Your laundry routine and daily life will be disrupted when an issue prevents your dryer from drying your clothes properly. Use this guide to discover whether you need a simple fix, like cleaning a lint screen, or if you need to hire a professional for something more drastic, like a heating element malfunction.
This guide will help you troubleshoot some common dryer issues to ensure your family always has clean, dry clothes. It’s recommended to also consult your dryer’s user manual for model-specific instructions before trying to fix your appliance yourself.
What to check if your dryer isn’t drying properly
Improper airflow in your dryer can result in ineffective drying, longer drying times, or wet, damp loads at the end of a cycle. These steps can help you troubleshoot a dryer that isn’t functioning properly.
You should also check your user manual for troubleshooting tips or model-specific information.
1. Blocked lint screen
If your laundry is still damp after a cycle, your lint screen might require a cleaning. You should clean your lint screen before every dryer load. You can also check your lint trap to determine if it needs a more thorough cleaning.
Solution: Clean the lint screen
Remove the lint screen and pull the lint towards you with your fingers to clean it. If you find a buildup of laundry detergent or fabric softener residue on the screen, use a nylon brush with hot water and liquid detergent to carefully scrub both sides. You can also deep clean your dryer lint trap on an as-needed basis as soon as you notice lint build-up.
2. Incorrect vent hose installation
A vent hose that has been incorrectly installed can block the airflow needed for laundry to dry. Use this guide to learn more about how to install a dryer vent.
Solution: Check the vent hose
A vent hose, located behind a dryer, should be made of a rigid or flexible metal, not aluminum or plastic. This hose usually has a 4-inch diameter to allow for maximum airflow. Confirm that the vent hose is supported, short, and has very little slack with no more than four 90° bends. Remember that 45° bends can allow for even better airflow.
3. Crushed vent hose
Inspect the vent hose to ensure it’s not crushed and that no kinks are present. A crushed vent hose can limit airflow. When steam is produced during a dry cycle, it’s released through the vent hose to dry your clothes properly.
Solution: Remove the kinks
If your vent hose is crushed, fix any noticeable kinks or obstructions. You may want to check that your vent hose is made of a rigid or flexible metal because other materials, such as plastic or aluminum foil, can be crushed or collapse.
4. Clogged dryer exhaust vent
Your dryer duct and outside exhaust vent may be clogged with debris, like lint. Without thorough or regular cleaning and maintenance, your dryer’s airflow might be restricted.
Solution: Clean the dryer exhaust vent
Follow these instructions on how to clean a dryer vent. This task usually takes less than two hours to complete, but if it's difficult to find or access your dryer duct and/or outside exhaust vent, it’s recommended to hire a professional.
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Why is my dryer taking too long to dry?
If your dryer’s dry times are slow, or your clothes are still damp after a cycle, clean your lint screen and check that the vent hose isn't crushed or kinked. Remember, larger loads will take longer to dry, depending on the size of your dryer.
A laundry load that’s too large based on the size of your dryer drum may impact air circulation. Furthermore, if clothing is soaking wet going into the dryer, this can create excess moisture, making it difficult to fully dry. You should also check that your dryer is plugged into a compatible outlet. Review your installation instructions to learn about your appliance’s power supply requirements.
Steam-enhanced cycles
Refresh your clothes
Help clothes look their best with steam-enhanced cycles and options that help prevent wrinkles and reduce static, available now on select Whirlpool® Dryers
How to tell if your dryer’s heating element is poor
An electric dryer’s heating element heats air in the drum, while a gas dryer utilizes a burner. If your dryer isn’t getting sufficiently hot, the heating system may be damaged. It’s recommended to contact a service professional to inspect and perform any repairs. Read this guide to learn more troubleshooting options if your dryer isn’t heating.
Why is my dryer getting hot but not drying my clothes?
A dirty lint screen can cause a dryer to heat but not dry clothes. If you clean out the lint but your clothes are still not drying properly, check if your dryer is spinning. It’s recommended to consult your user manual for model-specific information and directions.
Adaptive Dry Sensor Technology
Help prevent overdrying your family's laundry
Two built-in sensors measure moisture and temperature levels to automatically stop the cycle when the load is dry
How to know if your dryer needs to be replaced?
With routine maintenance and adequate care, a dryer can provide value and reliability for years. Older dryer models, however, might need replacing. If this is the case, contact a repair specialist to help you decide if it’s time to invest in a new laundry appliance.
Once you’re ready to replace your dryer or if you’re simply looking to upgrade your laundry space, this guide can help you find the right appliance for your household and life.
Explore Whirlpool® dryers
Whirlpool brand offers gas and electric dryers with several options to help simplify laundry day. From the energy-saving EcoBoost™ option to the AutoDry™ drying system that senses when clothes have reached the correct moisture level, select Whirlpool® Dryers deliver a variety of features engineered to help you care for your family’s laundry the way you want to.
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