Why does a tumble dryer slow down?
A dryer works by blowing hot air through the clothes and carrying the damp air away. If the air cannot flow freely, the moisture stays in the drum and the dryer takes much longer. The dryer can also overheat and cut out. If the air flows but is not hot enough, the heating side is at fault.
Common causes
These are the usual causes, starting with the ones you can check yourself.
At a glance
| Cause | Who fixes it |
|---|---|
| The lint filter is blocked | You can check this |
| The vent hose is crushed, kinked or full of lint | You can check this |
| The condenser or water tank is full | You can check this |
| The load is too big or too wet | You can check this |
| The heating element or a thermostat is failing | Technician |
| A sensor is reading wrong | You can check this |
- 1
The lint filter is blocked
You can check thisA full lint filter is the most common cause. Clean it after every load. If it looks clean but water does not run through it easily, wash it with warm soapy water.
- 2
The vent hose is crushed, kinked or full of lint
You can check thisOn a vented dryer the hose carries the damp air outside. A squashed hose, a hose that is too long, or lint built up inside it stops the air leaving.
- 3
The condenser or water tank is full
You can check thisOn a condenser dryer, empty the water tank every load and rinse the condenser unit as the manual shows. A clogged condenser slows drying a lot.
- 4
The load is too big or too wet
You can check thisAn overfull drum stops the clothes tumbling, and clothes from a washer that has not spun properly hold far more water. Check that your washing machine finishes its spin.
- 5
The heating element or a thermostat is failing
TechnicianIf the airflow is clear but the air coming out feels only warm, the heating element may be partly failed or a thermostat may be cutting the heat too early.
- 6
A sensor is reading wrong
You can check thisOn sensor-dry models a dirty or faulty moisture sensor can end the cycle before the clothes are dry. Wiping the metal sensor strips inside the drum often helps.
What you can safely check yourself
- Clean the lint filterClean it and wash it if it is clogged with fabric softener residue.
- Check the vent hoseStraighten the hose, keep it as short as possible and shake out any lint.
- Empty and rinse the condenserOn a condenser dryer, empty the tank and rinse the condenser unit under the tap.
- Check the washer spinIf clothes come out of the washing machine dripping, the washer may not be spinning properly.
- Wipe the sensor stripsWipe the metal strips inside the drum with a cloth and a little vinegar.
When to stop and call a technician
The dryer gets very hot on the outside, you smell burning, it cuts out during the cycle, or the clothes are still damp after these checks. Unplug the dryer before you move it or look behind it. A dryer that overheats is a fire risk and should not be left running.
Still having trouble with your tumble dryer?
Our technician comes to your home, usually the same day. The R450 call-out falls away if you go ahead, and you get a fixed price in writing before any work starts.
How a technician diagnoses it
- Airflow testThe technician checks the airflow through the drum, filter housing and hose or condenser.
- Heat testThe heating element, thermostats and thermal cut-out are tested.
- Sensor checkOn sensor-dry models the moisture sensor and its wiring are checked.
- Fixed priceYou get a fixed price in writing before any part is replaced.
Is it worth repairing?
Usually worth repairing when
- The fault is a thermostat, element or sensor
- The drum turns smoothly and quietly
- The cabinet is in good condition
Consider replacing when
- The motor and the heating side have both failed
- The drum bearings are worn as well
- Parts for the model are no longer available