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Amana Dryer takes too long

If your Amana dryer is taking too long to dry, start with the most common cause: restricted airflow. A clogged or partially blocked vent line and outside vent will cut airflow, raise cabinet temperature, lengthen dry times, and can cause a burning smell, so clean the venting system at least once a year and check airflow by removing the vent and feeling the exhaust. Next, inspect the blower wheel for lint, small items, or a worn sleeve that lets the wheel wobble and reduces air movement. If airflow seems fine, test the heating element with a multimeter; a failing element will leave the dryer not heating properly and extend cycle time. On gas models, a weak gas valve solenoid or bad igniter can let the igniter glow without lighting the burner, producing slow drying. Don’t overlook the lint filter and filter housing—residue from dryer sheets can choke airflow. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer and get step-by-step repair guidance.

01 - Air 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.
Top Solution

02 - Amana Dryer Blower 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.
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03 - Amana Dryer Heating 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.
Highly Likely

04 - Amana Dryer Gas Valve Assembly

A dryer's gas valve assembly 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 on the gas valve assembly 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. On some dryer models the gas valve parts are not sold individually requiring the whole gas valve assembly to be replaced.
Common

05 - Clogged 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.
Common

06 - Amana Dryer Lint 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.
Less Common

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana dryer taking too long to dry clothes?
How do I check the blower wheel if my dryer has weak airflow or takes too long?
My dryer runs but the clothes are not getting hot. How do I test the heating element or gas valve?
Can a clogged lint filter or vent cause the dryer to overheat or trip a thermal fuse?
How do I find and buy the correct replacement part for my Amana dryer on RepairClinic?