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HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Dryer RepairWhirlpool Dryer takes too long Repair
Troubleshooting Guide for Whirlpool Dryer Takes too Long to Dry Clothes
If your Whirlpool dryer is taking too long to dry or your dryer is not drying clothes in a single cycle, start by checking airflow — a partially clogged vent or duct is the most common cause and will starve the dryer of the air it needs to evaporate moisture. Next check the blower wheel for lint, trapped socks, or a worn sleeve that lets the wheel wobble on the motor shaft and reduces airflow. If airflow looks good but clothes still stay damp, the heating element may be failing; use a multimeter to test continuity or swap the element if it shows an open circuit. On gas models a bad gas valve or weak solenoid can let the igniter glow without lighting the burner, also causing long dry times. Don’t forget the lint trap itself — residue from sheets or softener can block the filter and housing. You can enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement parts and step-by-step instructions to fix these problems yourself.
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 - Whirlpool 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...
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Top Solution
03 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 Whirlpool dryer taking too long to dry clothes?
My dryer is overheating and then shuts off. What should I check?
Dryer not heating or no heat: how do I diagnose electric vs gas dryers?
My dryer smells like something burning. Is that an emergency?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?
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