Dryer not drying

Common reasons your dryer not drying

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

53% of the time it's the
Vent Tube

13% of the time it's the
Heating Element

6% of the time it's the
Wire Connector

28% of the time it's the
Something else

Schedule your dryer repair now!

We can help! Our service technicians have repaired over 22.2M dryers. We can fix yours no matter where you bought it.

Call (646) 440-2692 or schedule online now.

Common dryer repair parts you may need

Replacing one of these dryer parts may fix your problem.

Vent Tube Replacement

One of the primary reasons for clothes not drying properly in a dryer is often a blocked vent tube. When the vent tube becomes obstructed, air circulation within the dryer is hindered. As a result, warm and moist air remains trapped inside the dryer drum, preventing clothes from drying efficiently. If you notice prolonged drying times for your clothes, it's advisable to schedule a visit from a Sears Home Services Technician. The technician will inspect your dryer to ascertain whether a clogged vent is the root cause of the drying issue.

How to clean and maintain a dryer

Heating Element Replacement

If your dryer isn't drying properly, an open heating element might be the culprit. "Open" in this context refers to a broken heating element where electrical current isn't flowing to generate heat. Even if there's no visible damage to the heating element, it could still be electrically open due to an internal break in continuity. If your dryer isn't heating up as it should, it's recommended to schedule a visit from a Sears Home Services Technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

How to replace a dryer heating element

Wire Connector Replacement

A faulty wire connector within the heating or control circuit can impede the drying process in your dryer. If a wire is disconnected from the heating element, it will hinder the element's ability to generate heat. Similarly, a loose wire on the moisture sensor can mislead the control system into believing that the clothes are dry when they are actually still damp. Moreover, a defective wire connector on the control board can disrupt the management of the drying cycle. If you notice your dryer isn't effectively drying clothes, it's advisable to schedule a service appointment and have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect the dryer. The technician will examine the wire connectors and address any issues accordingly.

How to repair broken or damaged wires

What to expect when you experience a dryer not drying issue

How do I fix a not drying problem?

Addressing most issues with clothes not drying typically requires replacing components such as the vent tube, heating element, or wire connector. However, since there can be various underlying causes, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem effectively. An accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the cost of the repair.

Sears Home Services provides solutions for a dryer that is not drying

If your dryer isn't drying properly, there could be several reasons behind it. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we advise having a Sears Home Services expert conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the root cause of the issue. Our technicians have the expertise to diagnose various types of dryer problems accurately.

What to watch for with a dryer not drying diagnosis

Troubleshooting contemporary appliances without adequate knowledge and training can pose challenges. Without employing appropriate diagnostic methods, resolving issues with your dryer may involve guesswork in replacing parts. Over the past decade, appliances have significantly advanced, with many models incorporating intricate electronic components that are challenging to assess. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming progressively more complex.

What our customers say about us

With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it

Excellent service from Daniel

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.

Tammy M, Hilton, NY

Satisfied customer

Excellent technician Very thorough and detail oriented Would be happy to have him work on appliances again He managed to find our ranch headquarters in the middle of the desert

Rose W, Las Cruces, NM

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