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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Dryer
  4. Dryer not drying

Whirlpool dryer not drying

Common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not drying

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not drying are a clogged vent tube, open heating element or a bad wire connector.

  • 60%

    60% of the time it's the
    Vent Tube

  • 16%

    16% of the time it's the
    Heating Element

  • 14%

    14% of the time it's the
    Wire Connector

  • 10%

    10% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool dryer

    Vent Tube Replacement

    A clogged vent tube is one of the most common causes for a dryer not drying clothes. When the vent tube is clogged, air won’t flow through the dryer. Warm moist air will stay in the dryer drum and clothes won’t dry. When clothes are taking a long time to dry, have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and examine the dryer. The technician will determine whether a clogged vent is causing the drying problem.


    Heating Element Replacement

    An open heating element could be causing the problem when your dryer is not drying. “Open” means that the heating element is broken and current isn’t flowing through the element to produce heat. You may not see physical damage on the heating element for it to be electrically open. An interior break in the continuity of the element can prevent it from heating. When your dryer isn’t heating, have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and fix the dryer.

    Wire Connector Replacement

    A bad wire connector in the heating circuit or control circuit can keep the dryer from drying clothes. A disconnected wire on the heating element will prevent the element from heating. A loose wire on the moisture sensor will fool the control into thinking clothes are dry while the garments are still damp. A bad wire connector on the control board can keep the control from managing the drying cycle properly. When your dryer isn’t drying clothes properly, schedule service and have a Sears Home Services Technician check the dryer. The technician will check the wire connectors and fix any problems.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dryer not drying issue

    How is the not drying problem fixed?

    Correcting most not drying problems usually involves replacing the vent tube, heating element or wire connector. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a dryer that is not drying

    When the dryer is not drying it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

    What to look out for with a dryer not drying diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dryer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

    Common Reasons a Whirlpool Dryer Won’t Dry

    When your Whirlpool dryer is not drying clothes, understanding the common reasons can help you diagnose and fix the issue.

    Clogged Vent Tube

    A clogged vent tube is a primary reason why a Whirlpool dryer won’t dry clothes. Airflow is essential for drying, and a blocked vent tube prevents proper circulation. Regularly cleaning the vent tube can prevent this issue.

    Faulty Heating Element

    A faulty heating element is another common cause. If the heating element is broken, it won’t produce the necessary heat to dry clothes. Inspecting and replacing the heating element can resolve this problem.

    Malfunctioning Wire Connector

    A malfunctioning wire connector in the heating circuit or control circuit can also cause drying issues. Ensuring all wire connectors are secure and functioning properly is crucial for the dryer's performance.

    How to Fix a Whirlpool Dryer That Won’t Dry

    If your Whirlpool dryer is not drying clothes, check and clean the vent tube to remove any blockages and restore airflow. Inspect the heating element and replace it if it's broken or not heating. Examine all wire connectors to ensure they are secure and intact.

    By addressing these common issues, you can improve your Whirlpool dryer's performance and efficiency.

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    Daniel provided excellent service and was very quick to perform the repair. I have nothing good to say about the warranty program and the LACK of customer service and the inability to contact a human being to talk.


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    Dryer service

    He was professional and polite. I didn't call back later that afternoon, although he replaced a thermostat the smart dry timer doesn't work as I was still having the same issue. The lady said she would email him and have him return. Never heard from anyone else.


    Terry F, Oklahoma City, OK

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    Glossary Terms

    Natural gas is a fossil fuel used primarily for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It's a hydrocarbon gas mixture consisting mainly of methane, but it also contains smaller amounts of other hydrocarbons and sometimes sulfur compounds.

    A gas dryer is a laundry appliance that uses natural gas or propane to generate heat to dry clothes.

    A furnace limit switch is a safety device in a furnace that monitors the temperature of the air passing over the heat exchanger. It shuts off the burner if the air becomes too hot, preventing overheating and potential damage to the furnace or your home.

    A humidifier is a device designed to increase humidity levels in a single room or an entire building, improving air quality and comfort.

    Additional possible Whirlpool dryer symptoms you may experience