By Jesse’s Carpet & Duct Cleaning

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Why Your Dryer Might Be Taking Longer to Dry Clothes and How to Fix It

If you’ve noticed your dryer isn’t getting the job done as quickly as it used to, you’re not alone. A slow-drying dryer is a common issue that can lead to wasted time, increased energy bills, and even safety hazards.


But why is this happening, and how can you fix it?


Dryers are designed to make laundry day easier by efficiently drying clothes in a short time. However, when they take longer than usual, it could be a sign of a deeper issue.


Fortunately, many of these problems are preventable with simple maintenance. Here are the main reasons why your dryer might be taking longer to dry clothes—and how you can fix them.

1. Clogged Dryer Vents

One of the leading causes of longer drying times is a clogged dryer vent. Over time, lint and debris accumulate in the vent system, restricting airflow. This not only reduces drying efficiency but can also pose serious safety risks, including the potential for a fire.

Why It Matters:

  • Fire Hazards: Lint is highly flammable, and the heat generated by your dryer can ignite this material. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, over 15,000 dryer fires occur annually, with the majority caused by clogged vents.
  • Carbon Monoxide Risks: Blocked vents can cause dangerous fumes, including carbon monoxide, to back up into your home instead of venting outdoors.
  • Mould Growth: Restricted airflow traps moisture in the vent, creating an ideal environment for mould growth, which can lead to unpleasant odours and health risks.

How to Fix It:

  • Schedule professional dryer vent cleaning annually to remove lint and debris.
  • Use a rigid or solid vent pipe instead of flexible plastic tubing to reduce buildup.
  • Regularly clean the lint trap after each use to minimize accumulation.
  • Ensure your vent system is appropriately sized to prevent unnecessary bends or long distances that reduce airflow.

Additional Tips:

In cases of severe clogging, you might notice that your dryer takes multiple cycles to dry a load of clothes or that there’s a noticeable burning smell coming from the appliance. If you encounter these symptoms, it’s essential to take immediate action to prevent potential fire hazards.

2. Excess Lint Build-Up

Even with regular cleaning of the lint trap, small particles can escape into the vent system. Over time, this excess lint can block airflow, causing the dryer to work harder and longer to dry clothes.

Signs of Excess Lint:

  • Clothes remain damp after a full cycle.
  • There is a musty smell on freshly dried laundry.
  • The lint is visible behind the dryer or in the laundry room.
  • Clothes come out of the dryer feeling unusually warm or hot to the touch.

Prevention Tips:

  • Avoid overloading the dryer, as this increases the amount of lint produced.
  • Switch to liquid fabric softeners instead of dryer sheets, which can leave a residue that exacerbates lint buildup.
  • Clean the lint filter before or after every load to ensure maximum airflow.

3. Environmental Factors

Your laundry room’s environment can also impact drying efficiency. Condensation inside the dryer, especially when it’s not in use, can result from poorly designed ventilation systems or high humidity levels in the room.

Why It Happens:

  • Warm, humid air from your home or HVAC system can condense on the cool surface of the dryer drum.
  • Outdoor weather conditions, like extreme humidity, can also play a role.
  • If your dryer is located in a basement or enclosed area with poor air circulation, moisture can linger, making it harder for the dryer to function properly.

Solutions:

  • Ensure proper ventilation in your laundry room by installing exhaust fans or using a dehumidifier to control moisture levels.
  • Leave the dryer door open when not in use to promote air circulation and reduce moisture.
  • Consider closing HVAC vents in the laundry room to minimize warm air intrusion.
  • If possible, position the dryer in a more ventilated area of your home, such as near an exterior wall with easy access to an outside vent.

4. Overworked Dryer Components

When dryers work harder due to restricted airflow or clogged vents, their internal components experience extra strain. Over time, this can lead to motor wear, heating element damage, or complete breakdowns.

Signs of Wear and Tear:

  • The dryer feels excessively hot to the touch during operation.
  • The machine shuts off mid-cycle or displays error codes.
  • You notice loud or unusual noises during use.
  • The dryer drum does not rotate smoothly or makes a grinding sound.

How to Prevent It:

  • Allow the dryer to cool down between loads to reduce strain on components.
  • Keep the appliance clean and schedule regular maintenance checks.
  • Replace damaged or worn parts promptly to avoid further damage.
  • Check for wear on the belt, motor, and other moving parts to prevent future breakdowns.
A white machine in a room

5. Inefficient Dryer Placement

The location of your dryer can affect its performance. If the dryer is placed too far from an external wall, the vent system may be excessively long, increasing the chances of lint accumulation and airflow restriction.

Best Practices:

  • Position the dryer as close to an external wall as possible to minimize the distance the vent needs to travel.
  • Use a vent pipe with minimal bends and a smooth interior to promote efficient airflow.
  • Regularly inspect the vent system for blockages or damage.
  • Avoid placing the dryer in cramped spaces where airflow might be limited.

Why It Matters:

A longer vent system means more resistance to airflow, which can increase drying times and wear on the dryer’s motor. By positioning your dryer strategically, you can reduce the likelihood of clogs and improve overall efficiency.

6. Energy Efficiency Concerns

A clogged or inefficient dryer vent doesn’t just impact drying times; it also increases energy consumption. The longer your dryer runs, the more electricity it uses, leading to higher utility bills.

How to Save Energy:

  • Clean vents regularly to reduce drying time and energy usage.
  • Use moisture-sensing dryer cycles, which automatically adjust the drying time based on load moisture levels.
  • Dry similar fabric types together to optimize efficiency.
  • Avoid over-drying clothes, as it wastes energy and can cause wear on fabrics.

Energy-Efficient Tips:

Many modern dryers come with eco-friendly settings or energy-efficient features like heat pump technology, which reduces energy consumption while providing effective drying. If your dryer is old and lacks energy-saving features, consider upgrading to a more efficient model.

7. Protecting Your Investment

Regular maintenance not only improves your dryer’s performance but also extends its lifespan. A well-maintained dryer experiences less wear and tear, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

Long-Term Benefits:

  • Fewer Breakdowns: Consistent maintenance prevents major malfunctions, reducing the frequency and cost of repairs.
  • Lower Energy Bills: An efficient dryer consumes less energy, which can help offset the cost of regular maintenance and cleaning.
  • Safer Home Environment: Keeping your dryer in optimal working condition reduces the risk of fires, carbon monoxide exposure, and other safety hazards.

By investing in the upkeep of your dryer, you ensure that it runs efficiently, saves energy, and remains a reliable appliance for years to come.

8. Professional Help: When to Call an Expert

While some dryer maintenance tasks can be handled at home, others require professional expertise. If you notice persistent issues like damp clothes, error codes, or unusual noises, it’s time to call a professional like our team at Jesse’s Carpet & Duct Cleaning in Elliot Lake, ON.

What Professionals Offer:

  • Thorough Vent Cleaning: Experts can access hard-to-reach areas in your vent system, ensuring that lint and debris are completely removed.
  • Inspection and Repair: Technicians can inspect internal components like the motor, heating element, and drum to identify potential issues before they escalate.
  • Expert Advice: Professionals can guide you on best practices for dryer placement, usage, and maintenance to improve the appliance’s longevity and efficiency.

Understanding why your dryer might be taking longer to dry clothes is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and safety. Regular cleaning, proper ventilation, and routine maintenance can prevent most issues and keep your dryer running smoothly for years.

Don’t wait for problems to escalate — take proactive steps to protect your home, save money, and enjoy the convenience of a fully functional dryer.


By addressing common issues like clogged vents, excess lint build-up, and poor dryer placement, you can restore your dryer’s performance and prolong its lifespan.


Regular attention to these factors ensures your dryer operates efficiently, reduces energy costs, and contributes to a safer living environment.

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