Clothes taking a long time to dry
A dryer that heats up but doesn't dry clothes can be a frustrating and time-consuming problem. A common compliant we field at local Solutions Appliance Repair is that clothes is taking much longer to dry than normally.
You may turn on the dryer and feel heat in the drum but it is taking twice as long to dry the clothes. As a appliance repair technician, when I hear this problem my mind immediately goes to a ventilation problem.
The wonderful and wild weather we get in Newfoundland and Labrador can reap havoc on the dryer vent. The wet wind and sideways rain of the St. John's area can easily lead to blockages forming at the outside vent cover. Snow buildup around these vents can do the same, not allowing the damp air to leave the dryer venting. This leads to lint backups and restricted airflow very quickly. Not only does this pose a saftey risk, it costs you more money as a best case scenario.
There are several more common reasons why this might happen, and understanding these causes can help you troubleshoot and fix the issue. If you are unable to correct the issue your self then you can always contact Local Solutions Appliance Repair for a service call. Here are some of the most common reasons for a dryer that is heating but not drying clothes:
Ventilation issues: One of the most common reasons why a dryer won't dry clothes is because the ventilation system is clogged with lint or other debris. When the air flow is restricted, the dryer won't be able to circulate hot air effectively, which can cause the clothes to remain damp even after a full cycle.
Broken heating element: A broken heating element is another common problem that can cause a dryer to heat up but not dry clothes. If the heating element is not functioning properly, it won't be able to generate enough heat to dry the clothes.
Thermostat problems: The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature inside the dryer. If the thermostat is not working correctly, it can cause the dryer to overheat or not heat up at all, leading to clothes that are still damp after a full cycle.
Drum issues: The drum of the dryer is another component that can cause problems if it's not working properly. If the drum is damaged or not turning properly, it won't be able to effectively tumble the clothes, which can result in damp clothes.
Timer problems: The timer on the dryer is responsible for controlling the length of each cycle. If the timer is not working correctly, the dryer may run for too long or not long enough, which can result in clothes that are still damp.
To resolve these problems, it's important to clean the ventilation system regularly to prevent lint buildup. You can also check the heating element, thermostat, drum, and timer to make sure they are functioning properly. If you're not comfortable troubleshooting the dryer on your own, it's best to call in a professional for repair.
In conclusion, a dryer that heats up but doesn't dry clothes can be a frustrating problem. However, by understanding the most common causes, you can take steps to troubleshoot and fix the issue, saving yourself time and money in the long run. Whether you're a homeowner or a small business owner, it's important to take good care of your dryer to ensure it continues to work effectively for many years to come.