A dryer needs two things to work: heat and airflow. When drying takes forever, one of those is missing. Airflow problems are the most common — and they're also a fire risk, so don't put this one off.
1. Lint screen
Clean it before every load. Every few months, wash it with warm soapy water and a soft brush — dryer sheets leave an invisible film that blocks air even when the screen looks clean.
2. Clogged dryer vent (the big one)
Lint builds up inside the vent duct between your dryer and the outside wall or roof. Signs:
- Clothes are hot but still damp
- The outside of the dryer or the laundry room gets very warm
- Weak airflow at the vent hood outside while the dryer runs
- A burning or lint smell
Have the duct cleaned at least once a year — more often if the run is long or goes through the roof. Replace thin plastic or foil accordion duct with rigid or semi-rigid metal duct, and keep it as short and straight as possible.
3. The washer isn't spinning water out
If clothes come out of the washer dripping, the dryer will take much longer. That's a washer problem (spin, drain or balance).
4. Heating problems
If the drum turns but the air is cool:
- Electric dryers: check both halves of the double breaker. Then it's usually the heating element, a thermal fuse or a thermostat.
- Gas dryers: often a weak igniter or gas valve coils.
A blown thermal fuse is often a symptom of a clogged vent, so we always check airflow when we replace one.
5. Overloading
Clothes need room to tumble. A packed drum dries slowly and wears out parts.
Need help? See dryer repair or book a visit — $55 service call, applied to the repair.
Common questions
How often should a dryer vent be cleaned?
At least once a year for most homes, and more often with long vent runs, large families or pets.
Why does my dryer keep blowing the thermal fuse?
Almost always restricted airflow — a clogged vent or lint inside the dryer. Replacing the fuse without fixing the airflow just means it blows again.
Written by The PFC Team — PFC Appliance Repair, Antelope, CA. CA BHGS #A50656.