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Whirlpool Dryer Takes Too Long

The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Dryer takes too long are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.

Most Frequent Causes for Dryer takes too long

For the most accurate results, enter your model number.


Cause 1Air Flow Problem

If the vent line is clogged or partially clogged, it will restrict the airflow through the dryer, substantially increasing the drying time and cabinet temperature and potentially causing a burning smell. To ensure proper dryer performance, you should clean your dryer's venting system at least once per year.

Cause 2Blower Wheel

The blower wheel works with the drive motor to draw air into the dryer drum. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. In addition, the blower wheel sleeve can wear out, allowing the blower wheel to wobble on the motor shaft. If the blower wheel is obstructed or defective, it may take too long to dry clothes. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower wheel by hand. If the blower wheel wobbles as it turns, replace it.

Parts
Cause 3Heating Element

A dryer's heating element is the component that heats the air being circulated through the dryer drum. If the heating element is failing, it may be unable to sufficiently heat the air to dry the laundry in the expected time. You can use a multimeter to test the element for electrical continuity to help determine if the component is faulty.

Parts
Cause 4Clogged lint filter

A clogged lint filter will cause a loss of air flow, which can lead to long drying times and may cause the dryer to overheat, tripping the thermal fuse. For the best drying performance, clean the lint filter before starting the dryer and be aware that dryer sheets can cause residue to build up on the lint filter. If you cannot blow air through the lint filter it will need to be cleaned with a brush, soap, and water. Confirm the lint filter housing and grille, if applicable, are free of lint build up as well.

Cause 5Lint Filter

The lint filter might be clogged. Dryer sheets and fabric softener can leave a residue on the lint filter, reducing the air flow. If the lint filter is clogged, clean it. Confirm the lint filter housing and grille, if applicable, are free of lint build up as well.

Parts
Cause 6Gas Valve Solenoid

A dryer's gas valve solenoid is the component that opens to allow gas to flow into the burner tube to ignite into a flame to heat the air being circulated through the dryer drum. A solenoid can fail at any point during the drying cycle, resulting in the dryer taking too long to dry the laundry. An igniter that glows and goes out without lighting the burner is a good indicator the solenoid coil is bad. You can use a multimeter to test the gas valve soilenoid for electrical continuity to help determine if the component is faulty.

Parts
Cause 7Moisture Sensor

The moisture sensor monitors the clothing’s moisture level and sends a signal to the control board when the clothes are dry. If the moisture sensor is malfunctioning, it could inaccurately report that the clothing is still moist, causing the dryer to keep running even though the clothes are dry. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the moisture sensor check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the moisture sensor.

Parts
Cause 8Thermistor

Some dryer models have a thermistor. The control board uses the thermistor to monitor the dryer temperature and cycle the heat on and off. If the thermistor is defective, it might not cycle the heat on, causing the clothes to not to dry properly.

Parts
Cause 9Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device designed to protect the dryer from overheating. The fuse is located on the blower housing or at the dryer’s heat source such as the heating element on electric dryers or at the burner on gas models. The fuse should be closed for continuity meaning it has a continuous electrical path through it when good. If the dryer overheats, the fuse will blow and interrupt voltage to the heating element or burner. A multimeter can be used to test the thermal fuse for electrical continuity. Be aware that a blown thermal fuse is an indication of a restricted exhaust vent from the dryer to the outside. Always check the dryer venting when replacing a blown thermal fuse.

Parts
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