Long Dry Times - Dryer

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 should be cleaned yearly for best drying performance. Dryers have to have good airflow to the outside in order for clothing to dry.

CLICK HERE to see information on how clothes dry

Verify house vent (behind the dryer) is clear of obstructions    

If a dryer is heating, but still has long dry times, the likely cause is a vent issue. Standard dryers must have airflow to the outside in order for clothing to dry. 

CLICK HERE for more information on symptoms of having a blocked vent

Before calling for service, check your house vent going to the outside. Make sure that the vent material is not crushed or kinked. Verify that the vent is clear of lint or other obstructions. Clean venting the entire length starting at the back of the dryer to where it exits your home. View the image below:

You can also contact a professional vent cleaning service and have your vent inspected for obstructions. This should be done at least once every year.

A dryer vent test, part #W11224254, is available for all dryers. This vent test kit will help you to determine if the venting is restricted and needs to be cleaned. To order, contact Customer Service. 

CLICK HERE to watch a video with information about a clear vent and exhaust

CLICK HERE for more information on crushed venting

CLICK HERE for information on using the vent test kit

Is the Lint Screen Clean? 

The lint screen will be located either on top of the dryer or in the door opening of the dryer. A screen blocked by lint can increase drying time. It is important to clean your lint screen after every use.

If you use fabric softener on a regular basis, your lint screen may have residue build-up that is typically not visible. This residue should be cleaned occasionally for better drying performance. Click the link below for more information.

CLICK HERE for more information on cleaning the lint screen.

A dryer vent test, part #W11224254, is available for all dryers. This vent test kit will help you to determine if the venting is restricted and needs to be cleaned. To order, contact Customer Service. 

Verify outside Exhaust Hood is not blocked or restricted

Exhaust hoods must be at least 12" (305 mm) from the ground or any object that may obstruct exhaust (such as flowers, rocks, bushes, or snow).

It is possible for debris, such as animal nests, to cause an obstruction in the venting. Clear all debris from the hood, and attached venting.

CLICK HERE to watch a video about how to check your outside vent

Is the house vent crushed?  

Rigid or Flexible metal venting is recommended for use on all dryers. Other materials (aluminum foil, plastic) are NOT recommended because they can easily collapse or be crushed. Your dryer may get pushed back into the venting material, and can get crushed behind the dryer. See images below:

CLICK HERE for more information on symptoms of a blocked (crushed) vent

CLICK HERE to watch a video on crushed venting information

Vent length and elbows are correct

The vent system chart below provides venting requirements that will help achieve the best drying performance.

• Replace any plastic or metal foil vent with a rigid or flexible heavy metal vent.

• Use only 4" diameter heavy metal exhaust vent material. Larger or smaller diameter material will reduce good air movement and cause longer drying times.