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HomeRepair HelpGE Dryer RepairGE Dryer takes too long Repair
GE Dryer takes too long
If your GE dryer is taking too long to dry clothes or your dryer is not drying like it used to, the most likely cause is restricted airflow from a clogged vent or duct, so start by checking the vent and outside grille for lint buildup. Next suspect the blower wheel: lint, socks, or a worn blower sleeve can block or make the wheel wobble and cut air flow. If airflow looks OK, the heating element can lose continuity and fail to get the air hot enough, so test it with a multimeter. On gas models, a failing gas valve assembly or solenoid can let the igniter glow without lighting the burner, which also leads to long dry times. Don’t forget the lint filter and filter housing: a clogged or residue-coated screen reduces performance and should be cleaned regularly. If you need replacement parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact blower wheel, heating element, gas valve assembly, lint filter, or vent components that fit your dryer.
01 - Air Flow Problem
If the vent line is clogged or partially clogged, it will restrict the airflow through the dryer, substantially increasing the drying time and cabinet temperature and potentially causing a burning smell. To ensure proper dryer performance, you should clean your dryer's venting system at least once per year.
Top Solution
02 - GE Dryer Blower Wheel
The blower wheel works with the drive motor to draw air into the dryer drum. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. In addition, the blower wheel sleeve can wear out, allowing the blower wheel to wobble on the motor shaft. If the blower wheel is obstructed or defective, it may take too long to dry clothes. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower wheel...
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03 - GE Dryer Heating Element
A dryer's heating element is the component that heats the air being circulated through the dryer drum. If the heating element is failing, it may be unable to sufficiently heat the air to dry the laundry in the expected time. You can use a multimeter to test the element for electrical continuity to help determine if the component is faulty.
Highly Likely
04 - GE Dryer Gas Valve Assembly
A dryer's gas valve assembly is the component that opens to allow gas to flow into the burner tube to ignite into a flame to heat the air being circulated through the dryer drum. A solenoid on the gas valve assembly can fail at any point during the drying cycle, resulting in the dryer taking too long to dry the laundry. An igniter that glows and goes out without lighting the burner is a good indicator the solenoid coil is bad. On some dryer models the gas valve parts are not sold individually requiring the whole gas valve assembly to be replaced.
Common
05 - Clogged lint filter
A clogged lint filter will cause a loss of air flow, which can lead to long drying times and may cause the dryer to overheat, tripping the thermal fuse. For the best drying performance, clean the lint filter before starting the dryer and be aware that dryer sheets can cause residue to build up on the lint filter. If you cannot blow air through the lint filter it will need to be cleaned with a brush, soap, and water. Confirm the lint filter housing and grille, if applicable, are free of lint build up as well.
Common
06 - GE Dryer Gas Valve Solenoid
A dryer's gas valve solenoid is the component that opens to allow gas to flow into the burner tube to ignite into a flame to heat the air being circulated through the dryer drum. A solenoid can fail at any point during the drying cycle, resulting in the dryer taking too long to dry the laundry. An igniter that glows and goes out without lighting the burner is a good indicator the solenoid coil is bad. You can use a multimeter to test the gas valve soilenoid for electrical continuity to help determine if the component is faulty.
Less Common
07 - GE Dryer Lint Filter
The lint filter might be clogged. Dryer sheets and fabric softener can leave a residue on the lint filter, reducing the air flow. If the lint filter is clogged, clean it. Confirm the lint filter housing and grille, if applicable, are free of lint build up as well.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my dryer taking too long to dry?
Can a clogged vent or lint filter make my dryer overheat or smell like it is burning?
My dryer is not heating enough. How do I test the heating element or gas valve?
Why is my dryer making noise when the drum turns? Could the blower wheel be the cause?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?