Why Does My Electrolux Dryer Take So Long to Dry?

There is nothing worse than pulling a load out of the dryer after the cycle has finished, only to find them still damp. We have pulled together a list of the most common issues, as well as some quick fixes for you to try. 

There are a few common causes behind your Electrolux dryer taking so long to dry your clothes. These include power issues, overloading, and restricted airflow. Thankfully, most of the issues caused by these things can be resolved with some DIY maintenance or simple changes to your dryer use and care.

Insufficient power

An electric dryer like the Electrolux dryer requires a 240V outlet to receive sufficient power to operate correctly. If the outlets in your house are only 120V, it can take up to 3 times as long for the dryer to complete the job.

If you do have it plugged into a 240V outlet, the power cord may be the issue. If the cord is damaged in any way, it should be replaced, as this can result in the dryer not getting consistent power.

Another common issue people have is if they are using an extension cord. It is important to be aware of the fact that most typical extension cords can not safely give the level of electricity the dryer requires to operate and can cause issues. 

Drying too many items

We have all been there, trying to squeeze a few extra pieces into the load. Most people don’t realize that overloading the dryer actually ends up lengthening drying times. It can even reach the point where your Electrolux dryer takes two cycles to dry everything fully.

You should only be loading your dyer with one washer load per drying cycle. When possible, you should only fill it 2/3 of the way to allow for maximum airflow. If you are unsure about how much to put in, you should refer to your user manual.

Restricted air flow

For your Electrolux dryer to work, it needs to circulate hot air through the clothing. If hot air can’t circulate efficiently and then exit via the vent, the drying process will take longer than expected. 

Overloading is just one of the things that can cause restricted airflow issues. 

The following issues are also common causes of restricted dryer airflow:

• Dirty lint filter: This filter is an important component as it collects lint during the drying cycle. This prevents the dryer vents from getting clogged with lint. The lint filter, also known as a lint trap, should be emptied after every cycle to avoid becoming clogged. It also requires regular cleaning to remove built-up dirt and debris. You can clean the filter under clean running water and allow it to air dry. If the filter is not cleaned regularly, it can clog up and restrict airflow. 
• Clogged dryer vents: Another overlooked area is the dryer vents. Even if you are cleaning the lint filter after every cycle, lint can accumulate in the dryer vents. This will cause restricted air circulation. It’s recommended that you clean out the dryer vents every 12 months to remove lint and dirt buildup. Don’t forget to include the exterior vent hood on the outside of your house when you are doing your annual clean.
• Pinched vent hose: The vent hose carries air to and from your dryer during the drying cycle. If the vent hose is damaged, pinched, or crimped, it may be restricting airflow in the dryer. If it is merely pinched, you may be able to straighten it out. If it is damaged in any way, it should be replaced. 

Clothes too wet after washing

It is not always your dryer’s fault if the cycle is taking longer than usual. One common external factor is the state of the clothes before they go into the dryer. If your washer has not completed a spin cycle correctly, then the clothing may be too wet and, therefore, will take longer in the dryer. You should ensure you are using the correct cycle and the clothing is not too wet before it goes into the dryer for optimal results. 

Incorrect residual moisture level

To shorten drying times and save energy, the majority of dryers nowadays have a residual moisture level sensor. This is a sensor that is designed to stop the drying cycle before it is due to finish if the clothes are already dry. If your dryer is taking longer than expected to dry your clothing then the moisture level sensor may not be at the correct setting for your load. You can adjust the moisture sensor to a greater or lesser level of dryness to best suit your drying needs.

Broken electrolux dryer parts

If you have checked everything listed above and you are still having issues, then the problem may be with the machine in the form of a broken part. 

There are a few specific parts that, when functioning incorrectly, can result in longer drying times.

Gas valve solenoid: If you have a gas dryer, the gas valve solenoid works by opening the gas valve and allowing gas to flow. This gas is then ignited, which creates the heat needed to dry the clothes. If the solenoids are faulty, then the gas will not flow resulting in less or no heat.

Heating element: If you have an electric dryer, it uses a heating element to generate hot air. If this metal coil is damaged or burns out, then the dryer won’t have adequate heat.

Blower wheel: A dryer’s blower wheel helps it to draw air into the dryer drum and then expel the warm air out the vent. If it gets clogged or becomes defective, the wheel won’t rotate, and clothes will take longer to dry.