Clothes Dryer Maintenance
Ask Danny, Repairs and Installation, Safety and Security, Video by Danny Lipford
Danny, why does it take my dryer so long to dry my clothes?
April from Alabama
When a dryer takes a long time to dry your clothes, often the problem is due to a buildup of lint in the dryer lint screen or vent pipe. This not only reduces the efficiency of your dryer but can be a major fire hazard as well. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, dryers cause as many as 15,000 fires a year, with most resulting from dryer lint or improper venting.
To remedy the problem, check your vent pipe and the flexible hose for crimps or obstructions. Then clean it with a specially made brush, or remove the hose and clean it by hand. It’s also important to clean the dryer lint screen every time you run a load.
