Dryer Time Reduction Tips

Using the proper venting and ensuring the vent pipe is of the correct length is crucial for the operation of the dryer.

When clothes are taking an extended amount of time to dry or do not seem to be drying properly, the troubleshooting tips below can help homeowners identify and solve the problem.

Note: To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug the dryer from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

Venting

Using the proper venting and ensuring the vent pipe is of the correct length is crucial for the operation of the dryer. Most manufacturers recommend the use of solid metal vent pipe, with a 4" diameter, for optimal performance. While 4" flexible metal venting can be used, it may slightly extend the drying time. Most manufacturers also discourage the use of flexible, white, plastic vent pipes. This type of vent pipe can collapse and obstruct airflow, leading to lint buildup inside the dryer, which might cause the heaters to fail prematurely. Refer to the Installation Instructions for the appropriate length and number of turns for the vent pipe.

Ducts

Check for an obstruction in the ducting. Make sure the outside wall damper is operating easily. If flexible ducting is used, be sure that it is not kinked and is installed properly. Cleaning duct work completely at least once per year is recommended.

Filter

Remove and clean the lint filter after each dryer cycle. The filter can be washed with warm soapy water to remove fabric softener residue from the screen.

Power supply

Check the household fuses and circuit breakers. Most household dryers use two fuses or circuit breakers. It is possible for only one of them to trip and the dryer still tumble, but not heat. Homeowners should also consider that dryers on a 120-volt circuit instead of a 240-volt circuit will take about three times as long to dry.

Washer issues

Clothes may be too wet coming from the washer, resulting in longer dry times. If a gentle cycle is used, or slower spin speed set, water is not adequately removed from the clothes. High speed or extended spin removes more water from clothing, decreasing drying time.

Dryer capacity

There may be too many items in the dryer. Only dry one washer load at a time. Do not combine washer loads to make one large dryer load.

Alternatively, there may be too few items in the dryer. If the machine is not level, a small load may migrate to the back. If drying only one article and the dryer is level, add two similar articles, even if they are dry, to ensure proper tumbling. If less than 5 items are to be dried, timed dry should be used.

Clothing type

Improper sorting can cause uneven drying, along with difficulty choosing the appropriate dryer setting. Do not mix heavy, hard-to-dry items with lightweight articles.

If the above recommendations do not resolve the problem, professional service may be required.

Freedom Appliance of Tampa Bay has 13 years experience in professional repair and installation of all laundry and kitchen appliances and dryer duct cleaning. Call 813-302-7672 today!