Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpKenmore Dryer RepairKenmore Dryer takes too long Repair
Kenmore Dryer takes too long
If your Kenmore dryer is taking too long to dry clothes or you’re dealing with a dryer not drying, start by checking airflow: a clogged vent or duct is the single most common cause and will choke circulation, raise cabinet temperature, and even cause a burning smell. Next, inspect the blower wheel for lint, stray socks, or a worn sleeve that lets the wheel wobble and weakens air movement. If airflow looks good, the heating element can fail and won’t warm the air enough, so test it with a multimeter. On gas models a failing gas valve assembly or solenoid can let the igniter glow without lighting the burner, which also makes the dryer take too long to dry. Finally, clean the lint filter and housing; dryer sheets can leave residue that reduces flow. Enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer—blowers, elements, gas valve assemblies, lint filters—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 - Kenmore 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...
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution
03 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 - Kenmore 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 dryer taking too long to dry clothes?
How can I tell if the blower wheel is causing long drying times?
My dryer gets hot but still takes too long. Could the heating element or gas valve be bad?
Why does my dryer smell like something burning and sometimes overheat?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my Kenmore dryer on RepairClinic.com?
Shop by Kenmore Dryer Parts
Shop by Popular Kenmore Dryer Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com