A dryer that takes 2-3 cycles to dry a normal load is frustrating, wastes energy, and costs you money. If your dryer used to dry clothes in one cycle but now takes forever, or clothes come out damp after a full cycle, there's a problem that needs fixing.
A clogged lint filter or dryer vent is the #1 cause of slow drying. When airflow is restricted, hot moist air can't escape and drying takes much longer. Clean the lint filter before every load and clean the entire vent system every 6-12 months.
If the vent hose is kinked, crushed behind the dryer, or made of ribbed plastic, airflow is restricted and drying slows down. The vent hose should be smooth metal, as short as possible, with minimal bends.
If the heating element is partially burned out or weak, the dryer produces some heat but not enough to dry efficiently.
These thermostats regulate dryer temperature. If the cycling thermostat fails, the dryer may not heat long enough or hot enough.
Gas dryers that take too long to dry may have weak gas valve coils that don't open fully, or a weak igniter that takes too long to light the gas.
Worn drum seals allow hot air to escape around the drum instead of passing through the clothes, reducing drying efficiency.
If the moisture sensor bars are coated with fabric softener residue, the sensor can't accurately detect moisture. Clean the sensor bars with rubbing alcohol.
Overloading prevents proper tumbling and airflow. Fill the dryer only 1/2 to 3/4 full for best results.
We stock Heating Elements, Cycling Thermostats, Thermal Fuses, Gas Valve Coils & Igniters, Drum Seals & Felt Kits, Moisture Sensors, and Vent Hoses for all major brands: Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, GE, Samsung, LG, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kenmore, Amana, Speed Queen, and more.
Need a replacement instead of a repair?
Sometimes the repair cost isn’t worth it. XPart Supply carries Certified Pre-Owned washers and dryers that have been inspected, repaired, cleaned, and tested — available for local pickup or in-town delivery in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and Hamilton.
View Certified Pre-Owned AppliancesDIY parts typically cost $15-$80. Heating element $30-$60, thermostat $15-$30, thermal fuse $10-$20, drum seal kit $20-$35, gas igniter $30-$50. Professional repair costs $150-$300+ including labor.
A properly working dryer should dry a normal load of laundry in 30-45 minutes on high heat. Heavy items like towels or jeans may take 45-60 minutes. If it takes longer than one cycle, there's a problem.
This is almost always a clogged vent system restricting airflow. Clean the lint filter, vent hose, and exterior vent thoroughly. If that doesn't fix it, you likely have a weak heating element or failed thermostat.
Yes - clogged dryer vents are a leading cause of house fires. Lint is highly flammable and restricted airflow causes the dryer to overheat. Clean your vent system every 6-12 months.
Absolutely - if your dryer is less than 12 years old and otherwise working well, fixing slow drying is far more cost-effective than buying a new dryer ($600-$1,200+). Most repairs cost under $80 in parts.
Need Help? Our appliance parts experts are here to help you diagnose the slow drying problem and find the exact parts you need. Call us or use the chat - we're Canadian-based and ready to help.
