Modern household dryers are very efficient machines. With moisture sensors and other high-tech systems, today’s models can move you through a load of clothes in a flash. If your dryer isn’t drying clothes completely though, a little DIY troubleshooting can guide you in performing basic maintenance.
Dryer knowledge is valuable even when you need to hire a repairman.
Why Your Dryer Isn’t Drying Clothes Completely
Before you call a repairman to fix your faulty dryer, follow our guide on what to check and how to fix the problem yourself first.
Dryer Loading Issues
Overloading the dryer in an effort to fast-track your laundry completion will be counterproductive. If the dryer is overfilled, there is not adequate airflow to circulate around the clothes. This results in longer drying time and having to run multiple dry cycles.
The solution for when the dryer isn’t drying clothes completely due to loading issues is to load fewer clothes into the washing machine. Your washer will likely thank you as well.
Dirty Lint Screen
If your dryer won’t dry clothes but gets hot to the touch, you may have a clogged lint trap. Make a regular practice of cleaning the lint trap with every load. This will ensure adequate airflow through the dryer to enable your clothes to dry completely.
Another reason to clean the lint trap every time you run the dryer is to prevent the risk of a dryer fire. Dryer fires are a leading cause is house fires due to the fact that the lint fibers are flammable. When lint clogs up the screen, they can become quite hot, which increases their risk of igniting.
Clogged Dryer Vent
A common reason for when a dryer isn’t drying clothes completely is a clogged dryer vent. The duct system that connects from the outside of the dryer to the wall has a tendency to collect lint and debris. This is especially true is the vent duct is kinked behind the dryer. If this vent duct becomes clogged it may prevent the dryer air from exiting to the outside, further increasing the risk of fire.
Additionally, the vent system within the dryer eventually accumulates lint and becomes clogged, even when you are diligent about cleaning the lint trap.
You can purchase an appliance brush and clean out the vents of your dryer. Click here for detailed instructions on how to clean a dryer vent.
Washer Leaving Clothes Too Wet
When the dryer isn’t drying clothes completely or you have a dryer taking multiple cycles to dry, it could be a washer issue. If your washing machine isn’t draining the water completely, your clothes will be left saturated and heavy. If you put these straight into the dryer, the dryer simply can’t get the job done with one cycle.
Make sure your washer is balanced when loading clothes. This will help ensure the spin cycle adequately removes the excess water from the clothes. This way, when you load your dryer it can dry the clothes properly.
Faulty Components
After troubleshooting efforts are exhausted you may still be wondering, “Why is my dryer taking forever to dry clothes?” If you’re stuck with a dryer not heating or other problems not yet covered, it may be best to hire a professional to diagnose the problem. You may have dryer components that have failed and need to be replaced.
Contact Aviv Service Today and schedule an appointment for service. Our expert technicians specialize is dryer repair Charleston and are qualified to assist with all your appliance needs.
