Kenmore Electric Dryer Slow Drying: Causes & Solutions
AA slow-drying dryer is more than just an inconvenience can increase energy costs, wear out fabrics faster, and reduce the lifespan of your appliance. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, dryers account for 5% of total household energy use, and a faulty dryer can consume up to 75% more energy than necessary. In this guide, we’ll troubleshoot the most common causes of a Kenmore dryer taking too long to dry, provide step-by-step fixes, and share safety tips to keep your appliance running efficiently.
Common Causes of a Kenmore Dryer Taking Too Long to Dry
How to Fix a Kenmore Dryer That’s Taking Too Long to Dry
1. Clean the Lint Filter & Dryer Vent
- Remove the lint screen and wash it with warm, soapy water to remove residue buildup.
- Let it dry completely before reinserting it.
- Unplug the dryer and disconnect the vent hose from the back.
- Use a vacuum cleaner or vent cleaning brush to remove built-up lint.
- Check the exterior vent (outside your home) to ensure it’s not blocked.
- Reattach the vent hose securely and run a test cycle.
Recommended Frequency: Clean the lint filter after every load. Clean the dryer vent every 6-12 months.
2. Avoid Overloading the Dryer
- Small loads: No more than 1/3 full
- Medium loads: Fill about 1/2 of the drum
- Large loads: No more than 2/3 full
Pro Tip: Use wool dryer balls to improve airflow and reduce drying time by up to 25% .
3. Check & Replace the Heating Element
- Unplug the dryer for safety.
- Remove the back panel to locate the heating element (usually near the bottom).
- Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If there’s no continuity, the element is faulty and needs replacement.
Replacement Tip: Always buy a Kenmore-compatible heating element to ensure proper performance.
4. Test & Replace the Cycling Thermostat
- Unplug the dryer and locate the thermostat (usually near the blower housing).
- Remove the wires and test for continuity with a multimeter.
- If there’s no continuity, replace the thermostat with a new one.
5. Inspect & Fix the Blower Wheel
- Unplug the dryer and remove the front or back panel.
- Manually spin the blower wheel-it should rotate smoothly.
- If it's loose or clogged, remove lint buildup or replace the wheel if necessary.
When to Replace: If the wheel is cracked or makes rattling noises.
6. Adjust Dryer Settings for Optimal Drying
- High Heat - Best for towels, jeans, and heavy fabrics.
- Medium Heat - Ideal for synthetics and casual wear.
- Low Heat or Delicate - For lingerie, activewear, and delicate fabrics.
Pro Tip: Use the "Sensor Dry" function (if available) to automatically adjust drying time based on moisture levels.
Safety Tips for Using Your Kenmore Dryer
- Clean the lint trap before every load to prevent fire hazards.
- Never leave the dryer running overnight or when leaving home.
- Use only metal dryer vents - plastic or foil vents can overheat and catch fire.
- Keep the area around the dryer clear of flammable materials.
- Check for burning smells-this could indicate overheating or a failing component.
When to Call a Professional
- A faulty control board (which regulates heating and timing).
- A damaged moisture sensor (which detects when clothes are dry).
- Electrical issues affecting heating elements or thermostats.
Final Thoughts
Further Reading
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AA slow-drying dryer is more than just an inconvenience can increase energy costs, wear out fabrics faster, and reduce the lifespan of your appliance. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, dryers account for 5% of total household energy use, and a faulty dryer can consume up to 75% more energy than necessary. In this guide, we’ll troubleshoot the most common causes of a Kenmore dryer taking too long to dry, provide step-by-step fixes, and share safety tips to keep your appliance running efficiently.
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