Why Your Dryer Takes Too Long to Dry Clothes
Doing laundry should be simple. You put wet clothes in the dryer, press start, and expect them to come out dry. But what if your dryer takes too long to dry clothes? This is a common problem in many homes. A slow dryer wastes time, increases energy bills, and can even damage clothes over time.
If you live in Bountiful, UT, Salt Lake City, Kaysville North, or Centerville, the expert team at S&S Appliances often helps homeowners fix this exact issue. In this blog, we will explain why your dryer takes too long, what you can do about it, and when to call a professional appliance repair service.
1. Clogged Lint Trap
One of the most common reasons a dryer takes too long is a dirty lint filter.
Why it matters
The lint trap collects fibers from your clothes. When it is full, air cannot flow properly. Without good airflow, your dryer cannot remove moisture from clothes efficiently.
What you should do
- Clean the lint trap after every load
- Wash the lint screen with warm water and soap once a month
This simple step can greatly improve drying time.
2. Blocked Dryer Vent
Even if the lint trap is clean, the dryer vent hose can be clogged with lint, dust, or debris.
Signs of a blocked vent
- Clothes feel hot but still wet
- Dryer runs much longer than normal
- Laundry room feels humid
Why this is dangerous
A blocked vent is not only inefficient but also a fire hazard.
Solution
- Check the vent behind the dryer
- Make sure air flows freely outside
- Schedule professional vent cleaning if needed
At S&S Appliances, preventative maintenance services help keep your dryer vents clean and safe.
3. Overloading the Dryer
Putting too many clothes in the dryer can slow it down.
Why overloading is a problem
When the drum is too full:
- Hot air cannot circulate properly
- Clothes stay bunched together
- Moisture gets trapped
Tip
Dry smaller loads and shake clothes before placing them in the dryer.
4. Wrong Dryer Settings
Using the wrong settings can add unnecessary drying time.
Common mistakes
- Using low heat for heavy items
- Mixing towels with light clothing
- Using air-dry mode by accident
Best practice
- Use high heat for towels and jeans
- Separate heavy and light fabrics
- Choose the correct drying cycle
5. Faulty Heating Element
If your dryer is running but not producing enough heat, the heating element may be damaged.
Signs of heating problems
- Clothes remain damp after multiple cycles
- Dryer feels warm but not hot
- Drying time suddenly increased
Solution
This is not a DIY fix. You need a trained technician to inspect and replace the heating element.
S&S Appliances specializes in dryer repair and can quickly diagnose and fix heating issues.
6. Worn-Out Drum Seals or Belts
Dryers have seals and belts that help trap hot air inside the drum.
What happens when they wear out
- Hot air escapes
- Dryer runs longer to compensate
- Energy use increases
A professional appliance repair service can replace these parts and restore proper performance.
7. Moisture Sensor Problems
Modern dryers use moisture sensors to detect when clothes are dry.
When sensors fail
- Dryer shuts off too early
- Or runs much longer than needed
Fix
Sensors may need cleaning or replacement. This is another area where expert technicians are helpful.
8. Electrical or Control Board Issues
Sometimes the problem is not mechanical but electrical.
Possible issues
- Control board not regulating heat
- Timer not working correctly
- Power supply problems
These issues require professional inspection and repair to avoid further damage.
9. Age of the Dryer
If your dryer is old, it may simply be less efficient.
Signs it may be time for repair or replacement
- Frequent breakdowns
- Long drying times despite maintenance
- High energy bills
Before replacing your dryer, call S&S Appliances. Often, a repair can extend the life of your appliance and save money.
10. Importance of Preventative Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps avoid slow drying issues.
Preventative maintenance includes
- Cleaning vents and filters
- Checking heating elements
- Inspecting belts and seals
S&S Appliances offers preventative maintenance services to keep dryers and other appliances running smoothly.
Why Choose S&S Appliances in Bountiful, UT?
If your dryer takes too long to dry clothes, professional help makes a big difference.
What S&S Appliances offers
- Expert dryer repair
- Washing machine repair
- Range and wall oven repair
- Freestanding and built-in refrigerator service
- Preventative maintenance
Service areas
Their skilled technicians provide fast, reliable, and affordable appliance repair services you can trust.
To Summarise
A dryer that takes too long is more than just annoying. It wastes time, money, and energy. The good news is that most drying problems have simple solutions. From cleaning the lint trap to fixing heating elements, the right care can bring your dryer back to full performance.
If your dryer still struggles after basic checks, it’s time to call the professionals. S&S Appliances is your trusted local appliance repair service in Bountiful and nearby areas. With expert repairs and preventative maintenance, they help keep your home running smoothly.
Don’t wait for a small dryer problem to turn into a big one—get it fixed today.