6 Reasons Why Your Frigidaire Dryer Takes Too Long to Dry

dryer taking multiple cycles to dry

Long drying times can create a laundry backlog and throw off an entire day’s schedule. Why is my Frigidaire dryer not drying clothes as quickly? Overloading is a likely cause. Too many items in the dryer restrict airflow, creating longer drying times. Determine why your Frigidaire dryer takes too long to dry with these troubleshooting tips.

Frigidaire Dryer Takes Too Long to Dry? Here’s How to Solve the Problem

Usually, some basic maintenance or a simple adjustment can restore quicker drying times. However, sometimes a part malfunction is responsible when your Frigidaire dryer takes too long to dry. We’ll pinpoint the most likely reasons to determine if a DIY fix or professional repair is necessary.

#1. Dryer Power Supply Issue

Frigidaire dryer troubleshooting should first start with its power supply. If the dryer isn’t receiving adequate power, it may not be able to dry clothes completely or within one drying cycle.

Here’s how to assess your dryer’s power supply:

  • Make sure the dryer is plugged into a 240-volt outlet. Anything less won’t provide the dryer with the power to dry clothes sufficiently.
  • Avoid using extension cords to power the dryer. They can’t safely transmit the level of electricity required.
  • Check the dryer’s power cord for damage that can cause an intermittent electrical flow. If there is fraying or tears, replace the cord before using the dryer again.

#2. Exceeding Dryer Capacity

Overloading with too many items is one of the most common reasons a Frigidaire dryer takes too long to dry. Too much clothing in the dryer drum limits airflow, resulting in longer drying times. Always dry one washer load at a time. However, refer to your user manual to make sure the load doesn’t exceed your dryer’s capacity. In general, it’s best to fill your dryer only ¾ of the way full to ensure that air flows sufficiently.

frigidaire dryer takes too long to dry

#3. Need to Clean Moisture Sensor Bars

Have you noticed your Frigidaire dryer leaves clothes damp at the end of a drying cycle? If so, you may need to clean the moisture sensor bars. These bars monitor the level of moisture in clothing, signaling the dryer to turn off when clothes are dry. Most are located near the lint trap and, over time, can become coated in lint or residue from dryer sheets. When this happens, they won’t be able to sense moisture adequately and clothes may be left damp.

Clean the moisture sensor bars with a clean cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove lint and residue.

#4. Washer Leaving Clothes Too Wet

Sometimes the washer may be responsible for a dryer taking multiple cycles to dry. A washer malfunction or selecting a cycle without an adequate spin cycle can leave excess moisture in clothes, creating longer drying times. If your clothes are wetter than usual after a wash cycle ends, make sure you have the right cycle selected. If the cycle has an adequate spin cycle and clothes are still too wet, you may need to assess for a washer malfunction.

#5. Dryer Airflow is Restricted

While overloading restricts airflow, a clogged dryer vent or lint trap can do the same. Clogs block air from properly circulating, resulting in longer drying times. Make sure you empty the lint trap after each drying cycle and clean the dryer vent annually to prevent buildup.

Here’s how to clean your dryer vent to ensure proper airflow:

  1. Unplug the dryer and move it away from the wall.
  2. Disconnect the vent from the dryer.
  3. Use an appliance brush or narrow vacuum hose attachment to remove any lint from inside the vent.
  4. Clean the vent and exhaust hood on the outside of the house.
  5. Reconnect the vent to the dryer, restore power and reposition it in place.
frigidaire dryer not drying clothes

#6. Broken Dryer Component

If your Frigidaire dryer takes too long to dry even after these troubleshooting tips, a broken dryer component may be responsible.

The following part malfunctions can create long drying times and should be professionally assessed:

  • Obstructed blower wheel: If the blower wheel is obstructed it won’t be able to pull air into the dryer drum, restricting airflow.
  • Faulty gas valve solenoid: In gas dryers this valve opens and closes to allow gas to flow, providing heat to the dryer. If the valve doesn’t open properly, the dryer won’t receive adequate heat to dry clothes.
  • Burned out heating element: If the heating element in an electric dryer fails, it won’t be able to use electrical power to heat the dryer.

Need a dryer repair service? Apex Appliance Service can fix any malfunction with a fast and professional repair.


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