When a dryer takes too long to dry clothes we often put up with it just to avoid a repair. However, in most cases, a simple adjustment can solve the problem. What do I do when my dryer takes forever to dry? Keeping the lint screen clean provides the airflow needed for quick drying. Troubleshoot with some simple DIY solutions when the dryer takes too long to dry clothes.
What To Do When Your Dryer Takes Forever to Dry
Regular maintenance and the right use and care are key to keeping drying times to a minimum. Nevertheless, sometimes a part failure can ultimately be responsible. We’ll detail how to know what’s going when your dryer takes forever to dry.
Check the Dryer Lint Screen
Lint consists of small clothing fibers that loosen from garments during the dryer’s heated tumbling. The dryer’s lint screen collects these fibers to prevent them from clogging the vent and restricting air circulation. However, if lint clogs the screen, airflow will still be restricted, increasing drying times.
Always remove accumulated lint from the lint screen after each drying cycle. Most Maytag dryer lint screens are located on top of the dryer or in the door opening. Cleaning the lint screen regularly to remove smaller particles and dryer sheet residue can also ensure that it functions optimally. After removing any lint, take out the screen, rinse it, and scrub both sides with a nylon brush. Dry the screen thoroughly before replacing it.
Check the Dryer Power Source
A Maytag dryer power cord requires a 240V outlet. If the cord is plugged into a standard, 120V outlet, the dryer can take as much as 3x longer to dry clothes. Make sure your dryer is plugged into an outlet that supplies adequate voltage.
You’ll also find your dryer takes forever to dry if you use an extension cord for power. These cords can’t reliably transmit the voltage the dryer requires, leading to power interruptions or reduced voltage that increases drying times.
Check for a Clogged Dryer Vent
Vent clogs are one of the most common reasons a dryer doesn’t dry clothes sufficiently. Lint that accumulates in the vent will restrict air circulation, impeding drying and even risking malfunctions and dryer fires. We suggest cleaning your dryer vents on an annual basis to remove accumulated lint and debris.
Follow these steps to clean the dryer vent and restore airflow:
- Disconnect the dryer’s power cord and move it away from the wall.
- Separate the vent from the dryer and use an appliance brush and narrow vacuum hose attachment to remove lint and debris.
- Brush out the vent exhaust on the outside of the house.
- Reattach the vent to the dryer, making sure that it’s not crushed, pinched or improperly positioned. These issues can also restrict airflow and increase drying times.
- Reconnect the dryer’s power and position it back in place.
Dryer is Overloaded
Loading a dryer with too much clothing also restricts airflow and reduces tumbling so the dryer takes two cycles to dry. Overloading can also result in a noisy dryer that thumps as the drum struggles to tumble. To avoid these issues, always load the dryer with just one wash load at a time. In general, it’s best to only fill it ¾ of the way to ensure that hot air can properly circulate.
Washer Leaves the Clothes Too Wet
Sometimes a washer issue, and not a dryer malfunction, is responsible for longer drying times. Washer settings like Delicate or Hand Wash use a slower spin cycle, or none at all, to protect fragile fabrics. However, this setting can leave too much water in standard loads, resulting in a dryer leaving clothes damp after a single drying cycle. Always make sure you’ve selected the right setting for your wash load with the appropriate spin speed.
If your washer is set correctly and it still leaves clothes wet or doesn’t spin sufficiently, it may need a professional assessment.
Finally, Consider Calling a Professional for a Part Malfunction
If all else fails and your dryer takes forever to dry after these interventions, a part malfunction is likely the reason.
The following part malfunctions can elongate drying times when they malfunction and require a professional repair:
- Gas valve solenoid: In gas dryers, these components open and close, allowing gas to flow to the dryer’s burner and supply heat. If they fail during operation, gas won’t reach the burner to supply continuing heat throughout the drying cycle.
- Heating element: For electric dryers, the heating element uses electricity to generate the heat for drying. When it malfunctions, the element may burn out completely or slowly generate less heat over time.
- Blower wheel: All dryers have a blower wheel that helps draw warm air into the drum. If the wheel malfunctions and can’t rotate, air circulation may be reduced. Before replacing the wheel, a professional can inspect it for obstructions that impede rotation but can be removed to restore function.
For the best dryer repair in Laguna Niguel, call Caesar’s Appliance Sales & Service!