Dryer is not Drying or Experiencing Long Dry Times
Whirlpool Dryer Is Not Drying or Experiencing Long Dry Times
If your dryer takes longer than expected or leaves items damp, a few targeted checks can often restore performance. This guide explains what the results of a cycle can tell you, quick steps to try at home, how to address ventilation issues, and when to schedule service. You’ll also find maintenance tips to help prevent future problems. If your dryer is not drying or experiencing long dry times, or you notice a dryer taking too long to dry, use the steps below to narrow down the cause and improve results.
Quick Checks You Can Do Now
Confirm the basics before diving deeper:
- Power and gas: Make sure the plug is secure and circuit breakers are on. Electric dryers typically use a 240 V outlet with two breakers. For gas models, verify the gas supply valve is open.
- Test for Heat: 1. Select a heated cycle 2. Run the cycle for 5 minutes (empty dryer). 3. Open the door and feel inside. If the dryer is not heating, service might be needed.
- Door and controls: Ensure the door is fully closed and latched. Turn off Child Lock. Select appropriate cycles: sensor cycles for most loads, timed or higher heat for heavy items, and avoid air-only or low-heat settings if you expect faster results.
- Load size and mix: Overloading restricts tumbling and airflow. Aim for the drum to be about one-half to three-quarters full so items can tumble freely. Dry similar fabrics together. Towels and heavy items can extend dry time when mixed with lightweight garments. Bulky pieces like comforters often need to be dried alone, with pauses to shake out and reposition. An overloaded or mixed load is a common reason for a dryer taking too long to dry.
- Lint and sensors: Empty the lint filter before every load. If softener sheets leave residue, wash the filter with warm water and a soft brush, then dry thoroughly.
Ventilation and Airflow
Poor ventilation is a leading cause of long dry times. Unplug the dryer before inspection. Check the vent hose behind the dryer for kinks, crushing, or excessive length. Remove lint buildup from the hose and wall connection. Outside, confirm the vent hood flap opens freely during operation and clear any lint, debris, or nests. If airflow outside feels weak while the dryer runs, the vent path may be restricted and can result in a dryer taking too long to dry clothes.
Watch for airflow warning signs:
- Loads are warm but damp after a full cycle.
- Heat or humidity is elevated in the laundry area.
- Visible lint accumulates around the door seal or lint housing.
For best results, use rigid or semi-rigid metal venting. Avoid plastic or foil accordion-style ducts. Keep the vent run as short and straight as possible with minimal elbows. Many dryers perform best with total equivalent vent lengths under 35 feet; each 90-degree elbow adds resistance. Refer to your model’s installation instructions for exact limits. Improving venting is one of the most effective ways to fix a dryer not drying or a dryer taking too long to dry.
Test the Ventilation
At Whirlpool, we understand the importance of keeping your home safe and your appliances running efficiently. That's why we offer a convenient and reliable option for ordering a dryer vent testing kit directly from our website, Whirlpool.com. Our dryer vent testing kits are designed to help you easily assess the performance of your dryer vent system, ensuring optimal airflow and reducing the risk of fire hazards.
Visit Dryer Test Kit or Contact Us to purchase part #W11224254.
Additional Replacement parts can be purchased at Whirlpool Purchase Genuine Parts
Cycle Selection
Cycle selection is important. If the clothes don't reach the desired dryness level, select a different cycle, such as "Regular." For best performance, use an automatic cycle.
- Air Dry or Fluff: does not add heat to the dryer at any time during the cycle. It is best used for items where no heat is desired, such as items that will shrink easily.
- Quick Dry and Rapid Dry: are timed cycles designed to dry smaller loads.
- The EcoBoost™ option will default on only for the Regular/Normal cycle and is only available on that cycle. This option increases your energy savings by using a slightly lower heat level. The EcoBoost™ option will increase drying times by approximately 40 minutes, which will be reflected on the LED Display. If optimal time is desired, touch ECOBOOST to turn off this option.
Is the dryer new?
If you connected a new dryer to the old house venting, you may still have long dry times. Venting going to the outside of the home must be cleaned every one to two years or as needed when dry performance has decreased. This will depend on the frequency of use, types of items dried, pet hair, etc. Dryers need good airflow to the outside for clothing to dry and for optimal performance.
Check out How Does a Dryer Dry Clothing? for more information.
When to Schedule Service
Arrange service if long dry times persist after cleaning, the dryer does not heat, error codes display, or unusual noises. Before the appointment, gather your model and serial numbers, describe the symptoms (for example, warm but wet clothes, two-hour cycles, specific error code), list steps you have already taken, and note the type and approximate length of the vent run. Clear space around the dryer and provide access to the outlet and gas shutoff (if applicable) to help the technician complete service efficiently. Professional help is the right next step when your dryer is not drying or experiencing long dry times or when the dryer taking too long to dry becomes a recurring issue.