Why is my Dryer Taking Hours to dry?

Have you noticed that your dryer doesn't really do the job that it's supposed to do well?  There are several different things to check for before calling up the manufacturer to complain.

Is it getting hot when it runs?  All dryers have a heating element, or igniter system if they are gas, in them and just like stoves and anything else that uses one they are bound to wear out eventually.  Check if your clothes are hot during a normal cycle.  It is not necessarily the heat element causing your dryer to not heat up but it is the usual suspect.

Is the drum turning while it runs?  Dryers need pockets of air to form in between items to dry anything really well.  Your items run the risk of getting scorched if the drum is not turning as well. Fortunately most machines include a safety feature that will not allow the dryer to be run if the drum is not sensed to be turning.

When was the last time you had your ducts cleaned?  If this is a new problem that has come up with a machine you've had for years you should be checking your notes for the last time you had the machine and the ducts cleaned.  If there is not enough air flow going through the machine it will not be able to dry anything properly as moisture needs to be wicked outside; typically through a duct system.

What style of dryer do you have?  If you have a new "ductless" condenser dryer the bad news is that while it is wonderfully convenient that you can place it anywhere in your home the lack of a vent does mean longer drying times.  The excess moisture in the air that circulates in the machine passes through a condenser in an attempt to remove a majority of it but each subsequent load will result in a build-up of moisture and a longer wait time.

If the ducts are not at fault and you do not have a condenser dryer you need to call an appliance technician for service.  Dryers, like all appliances, use a high voltage for their power and it can be dangerous to dissemble them without training.  If you are in the Greater Toronto Area SOS Appliance Repair Inc can provide professional service to your dryer and most other household appliances.  Contact us for more information.