Why Your Dryer Takes Too Long and How to Fix It

Ever stare at a pile of damp clothes and wonder why the dryer seems to be in slow‑motion? You’re not alone. A dryer that drags out the cycle wastes time, energy, and patience. The good news is most of the time you can sort it out yourself with a few quick checks.

Top Reasons a Dryer Takes Forever

1. Clogged lint filter or vent. A dirty lint filter looks harmless, but it blocks airflow and forces the dryer to work harder. The vent pipe can get clogged with lint, dryer sheets, or even pet hair. When air can’t escape, the drum stays wet and the timer keeps running.

2. Overloading. Packing the dryer to the brim means the tumbling action is limited. Clothes can’t move freely, so moisture stays trapped. A half‑full drum dries much faster.

3. Incorrect dryer settings. Using a low‑heat or “delicate” cycle for heavy items like towels or blankets adds hours to the job. Make sure the setting matches the load material.

4. Worn heating element or thermostat. If the element isn’t heating properly, the dryer will run the timed cycle but never reach the right temperature. You might feel warm air, but it’s not hot enough to evaporate the water.

5. Faulty moisture sensor. Many modern dryers have sensors that tell the machine when clothes are dry. A sensor that reads incorrectly will keep the cycle going even after the clothes are dry.

Quick Fixes You Can Do Today

Clean the lint filter after every load. Slide it out, tap off the lint, and give it a quick vacuum. It’s the easiest habit that makes a big difference.

Check the vent pipe. Unplug the dryer, pull it away from the wall, and look at the vent opening. If you see a bunch of lint, disconnect the vent and clean it with a vent brush or a long‑handled vacuum attachment. A clear vent improves airflow and cuts drying time dramatically.

Don’t overload. Aim for a drum that’s about three‑quarters full. That’s enough space for clothes to tumble and let hot air circulate.

Match the cycle to the load. Use “Cotton” or “Heavy Duty” for towels, sheets, and denim. Switch to “Synthetic” or “Delicates” for lighter fabrics.

Inspect the heating element. If you suspect the element, look for visible signs of damage like black spots or breakage. Replacing an element is a simple DIY job for most models, but if you’re unsure, call a professional.

Test the moisture sensor. Clean the sensor bars (usually located near the lint filter) with a soft cloth and a bit of rubbing alcohol. Residue from dryer sheets can confuse the sensor.

If you’ve tried these steps and the dryer still drags, it may be time to call a local repair service. A qualified tech can check the thermostat, drum seal, and motor – parts that need specialist tools.

Keeping your dryer in top shape not only speeds up each load but also saves energy bills. A clean lint filter, clear vent, and sensible loading are the three habits that give you the biggest payoff. Next time you load up, give these a quick once‑over and watch the cycle finish on time.

Still stuck? Our team at Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services can diagnose the issue and get your dryer back to normal. We work fast, charge fair rates, and make sure your laundry routine stays hassle‑free.