Is the house vent crushed?

Rigid or Flexible metal venting is recommended for use on all dryers. Other materials (aluminum foil, plastic) are NOT recommended because they can easily collapse or be crushed. See the images below.

CLICK HERE for more information on symptoms of a blocked (crushed) vent

CLICK HERE to watch a video on crushed venting information

Verify house vent is clear of obstruction

If a dryer is heating, but still has long dry times, the likely cause is a vent issue. Venting going to the outside of the home needs to be cleaned every one to two years or as required when dry performance has decreased. This will depend on the frequency of use, types of items dried, pet hair, etc. Dryers need proper airflow to the outside for clothing to dry and for optimal performance. 

CLICK HERE for more information on symptoms of a blocked vent

Before calling for service, check your house vent going to the outside. Make sure that the vent material is not crushed or kinked. Verify that the vent is clear of lint or other obstructions. Clean venting the entire length, starting at the back of the dryer to where it exits your home. View the image below:

Is the vent length and elbows are correct? 

The vent system chart below provides venting requirements that will help achieve the best drying performance.

• Replace any plastic or metal foil vent with a rigid or flexible heavy metal vent.

• Use only 4" diameter heavy metal exhaust vent material. Larger or smaller diameter material will reduce good air movement and cause longer drying times.

Verify outside Exhaust Hood is not blocked or restricted.

Exhaust hoods must be at least 12" (305 mm) from the ground or any object that may obstruct exhaust (such as flowers, rocks, bushes, or snow). It is possible for debris, such as animal nests, to obstruct the venting. Clear all debris from the hood and attached venting.

CLICK HERE to watch a video about how to check your outside vent

Test Vent Kit

A dryer vent test, part #W11224254, is available for all dryers. This vent test kit will help you to determine if the venting is restricted and needs to be cleaned. To order, contact Customer Service. 

REMINDER: Venting going to the outside of the home needs to be cleaned every one to two years or as required when dry performance has decreased. Dryers need proper airflow to the outside for clothing to dry and for optimal performance. 

NOTE: If there is no heat at all, please schedule service instead of asking for the vent test kit.

Is the Lint Screen Clean? 

The lint screen will be located either on top of the dryer or in the door opening of the dryer. A screen blocked by lint can increase drying time. It is essential to clean your lint screen after every use. The lint screen should also be cleaned of detergent/fabric softener residue occasionally. Click the link below for more information.

CLICK HERE for more information on cleaning the lint screen.

Is load too large and heavy to dry quickly?

Separate the load so it tumbles freely.

Are Fabric softener sheets blocking the grille?

Use only one fabric softener sheet, and use it only once.

Is Dryer located in a closet?

Closet doors must have ventilation openings at the top and bottom of the door. The front of the dryer requires a minimum of 1" (25 mm) of airspace, and, for most installations, the rear of the dryer requires 5" (127 mm). Refer to Installation Instructions for more information.