How do I fix my dryer?

Question

I used to be able to dry a full load of clothing in about 50 minutes. Now I go an check the dryer and clothes are still damp. I empty the lint every time I use it, so what else can I do?

Answer 1

Is it possible your exhaust vent has has lint build up over time. You can also check where the exhaust line exits the home. Often they have screens (to keep birds, mice, etc out) that can get plugged. You also may have build up of lint that made it through the lint trap and has built up in the dryer. You can buy a dryer vent cleaning brush to clean this up.  

Answer 2

i agree woodtic, be sure you are not overloading the dryer, a dryer uses a tumble dry method. the heat is needed, but airflow is very important.

good luck

Answer 3

lf the clothes are not hot it probably is your heating element.

Answer 4

Also, remove the back of the dryer and check for lint there.  Unplug it first.

Answer 5

The crimped or blocked vent is the most common. The outlet cover is next.  Often people push on the dryer and over time kink or crush the vent pipe.

But also pay attention to how wet the clothes are when you pull them out of the washer. A poor spin can leave too much water. Also using permanent press cycle for heavy cottons will not wring them out well too. Perm Press cycle is a slow spin. Adds drying time.  

Answer 6

Check the vent hose.  If you remove it, you will probably find a ball of lint inside.  Remove that, reconnect the hose, and you should be good to go.

Answer 7

Yeah, woodtick may be right. Also make sure your washer is doing a good job spinning the water out.

Next thing would be a heating element.

Answer 8

Check the pipe that goes outside.  There may be lint blocking the flow of air from leaving the dryer.