Review
Why is my kenmore dryer not drying? Causes & Solutions
AAZparts Team
Updated on June 26, 2025
6 min read
A slow-drying Kenmore dryer is more than just a minor inconvenience—it can drive up your energy bill, damage your clothes, and reduce the appliance’s lifespan. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, clothes dryers account for around 5% of household energy use, and a faulty unit can consume up to 75% more energy than necessary.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common reasons your Kenmore dryer is taking too long to dry, how to fix them, and when it's time to replace key components.
Common Causes of a Kenmore Dryer Taking Too Long to Dry
1. Clogged Lint Filter or Dryer Vent
When lint builds up in the lint filter or vent hose, it restricts airflow and traps moisture inside the drum.
Fact : A clogged lint screen can reduce airflow by up to 50%, drastically increasing drying time.
May require replacement : If your lint filter is torn or warped, it should be replaced to ensure efficient airflow. Likewise, if your vent hose is crushed, brittle, or too long, replace it with a rigid metal duct for optimal performance.
2. Overloaded Dryer
Stuffing the drum with too many clothes prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven and slow drying.
Fix : Always follow the manufacturer's load size recommendations. Over time, if your drum belt or motor struggles due to frequent overloading, they may also require inspection or replacement.
3. Faulty Heating Element
A Kenmore electric dryer relies on a functioning heating element to produce hot air. If the element is damaged or partially burned out, the dryer will take longer to dry clothes—or not dry at all.
Replace if necessary :
- Test for continuity using a multimeter.
- No continuity? The heating element needs to be replaced.
- Make sure to purchase a Kenmore-compatible replacement part.
4. Defective Cycling Thermostat
The cycling thermostat controls the dryer’s temperature. If it's not functioning properly, the dryer may not get hot enough to dry clothes efficiently.
How to test :
- Disconnect power and access the thermostat (usually near the blower housing).
- Check for continuity. If it fails, it's time for a thermostat replacement.
5. Worn or Damaged Blower Wheel
The blower wheel pushes hot air through the drum and into the vent. If it's clogged with lint or comes loose from the motor shaft, airflow will suffer.
When to replace :
- If the blower wheel is cracked, wobbly, or makes rattling sounds, replace it.
- If it’s simply clogged with lint, clean it thoroughly.
6. Incorrect Dryer Settings
Using low-heat, air-dry, or delicate settings can extend drying time—especially on heavy loads like towels or jeans.
Fix :
- Adjust the settings to High Heat for durable fabrics.
- Use Sensor Dry (if available) to let the dryer auto-adjust based on moisture.
| Part | When to Replace | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|---|
Lint Filter | Torn, cracked, or warped | $10–$20 |
Dryer Vent Hose | Crushed, excessively long, or damaged | $15–$30 |
Heating Element | No continuity or weak heat | $30–$60 |
Thermostat | Fails continuity test | $20–$40 |
Blower Wheel | Cracked, loose, or noisy | $25–$50 |
Moisture Sensor | Inaccurate drying, inconsistent shutdown | $20–$40 |
How to Fix a Kenmore Dryer That’s Taking Too Long to Dry
1. Clean the Lint Filter & Dryer Vent
Warning: Lint buildup is a leading cause of dryer fires. The U.S. Fire Administration reports that dryers cause 2,900 fires annually, resulting in $35 million in property damage.
How to Clean the Lint Filter:
- Remove the lint screen and wash it with warm, soapy water to remove residue buildup.
- Let it dry completely before reinserting it.
How to Clean the Dryer Vent:
- 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
Overloading prevents proper air circulation , causing clothes to dry unevenly.
How to Load Your Dryer Correctly:
- 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
A faulty heating element results in low heat output , causing longer drying cycles.
How to Test 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
A defective thermostat prevents the dryer from reaching the correct temperature, extending drying time.
How to Test the 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
A loose or obstructed blower wheel reduces airflow, making drying inefficient.
How to Check 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
If you accidentally set the dryer to low heat, air fluff, or delicate, drying time will increase.
Safety Tips for Using Your Kenmore Dryer
- Always clean the lint trap before starting a new load.
- Never run the dryer when sleeping or away from home.
- Only use metal dryer vents—plastic or foil can overheat and catch fire.
- Keep the area around the dryer free of clutter or flammable materials.
- Watch out for burning smells or unusual noises—these can signal serious issues.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried these fixes and your Kenmore dryer is still taking too long to dry, it may have a more serious issue, such as:
- 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.
If your dryer is still under warranty, contact Kenmore customer support or hire a certified technician for repairs.
Final Thoughts
If your Kenmore dryer is taking too long to dry, don’t wait—it’s costing you time, money, and energy. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of key components like the heating element, thermostat, or blower wheel can restore your dryer’s efficiency and help extend its lifespan.
Need replacement parts? AZParts offers a wide selection of high-quality, compatible Kenmore dryer parts—from heating elements to lint filters—so you can get your appliance back in top shape fast. As part of our extensive inventory of Kenmore parts, we make it easy for both DIYers and professional technicians to find exactly what they need. With AZParts, you can shop confidently, knowing you're getting the right part for your specific Kenmore model.
Check if there are any other problems with your Kenmore dryers:
1. Kenmore Washers Troubleshooting: 5 Common Problems & How to Fix
2. Kenmore Elite Washer No Power – Common Causes & Fixes
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