Kenmore Dryer: not catching lint

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore dryer isn't catching lint, it may still dry clothes, but the lint trap collects very little or none at all. This can indicate issues like a damaged lint screen, blocked venting, or clogged internal passages, which may lead to longer drying times and lint accumulation elsewhere in your dryer. Understanding the potential causes can help you address the problem effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Kenmore dryers use specific lint screen assemblies (e.g., part W10120998) that should be inspected for wear/damage and replaced with compatible parts

Possible Causes

Lint screen/filter damaged or improperly seated

How to Identify: Visible tears/holes in mesh, warped/bent frame, or screen not fully inserted into slot

Part: Lint screen / lint filter

Blocked or restricted dryer vent/duct

How to Identify: Little/no airflow from vent outlet during operation, long drying times, moisture/steam in dryer, lint accumulating outside trap

Part: Dryer vent hose and external vent

Clogged lint trap housing and internal passages

How to Identify: Lint buildup inside housing visible when screen removed, reduced airflow at lint trap area

Part: Lint trap housing behind screen

DIY Solutions

Inspect and clean lint screen

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: soft brush, vacuum with brush attachment
  1. Remove lint screen from dryer
  2. Visually inspect screen for tears, holes, or warping
  3. Clean screen with vacuum/soft brush to remove buildup
  4. If screen is damaged, replace with correct Kenmore part and reinstall ensuring it seats fully
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure dryer is off before removal

Check and clear dryer vent/duct airflow

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: dryer vent brush or vacuum, screwdriver (if needed)
  1. Disconnect power and pull dryer away from wall
  2. Detach vent hose from dryer and external wall vent
  3. Use vent brush or vacuum to clear lint from hose and both ends
  4. Reconnect vent hose securely and ensure external flap/cover isn’t blocked
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug dryer before accessing vent

Professional Repairs

Professional vent and internal lint cleaning

Estimated Cost: $100 - $250

Replacement lint screen housing or internal component repair

Estimated Cost: $25 - $80

When to Call a Professional

Cannot locate or clear restricted airflow after vent cleaning
Lint continues bypassing trap and accumulating deep inside dryer cabinet
Physical damage to lint trap housing or unrepaired parts after DIY attempts

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint screen after every load: Clogged screen and reduced lint capture
    Frequency: every load
  • Clean vent hose and external vent: Restricted airflow causing lint bypass
    Frequency: every 6-12 months
  • Inspect for damage to lint screen: Ineffective lint capture due to tears/warping
    Frequency: every 3 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer not catching lint?
Common reasons include a damaged lint screen, blocked dryer vent, or clogged lint trap housing.
How do I fix Kenmore Dryer not catching lint myself?
Inspect and clean the lint screen, and check the dryer vent for blockages.
How much does it cost to fix not catching lint?
Professional repairs can range from $100 to $250, while parts may cost $25 to $80.
When should I call a technician for not catching lint?
Consider professional help if DIY solutions fail or if you notice severe dryer issues.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

85%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged lint filter
  • Blocked venting system
  • Damaged lint trap or housing

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Remove and clean the lint filter thoroughly with warm soapy water. Ensure it is completely dry before reinserting it into the dryer.

  2. Inspect and clean the venting system from the dryer to the outside. Use a vent cleaning brush to remove lint buildup. Ensure there are no kinks or blockages in the vent.

  3. Check the lint trap and housing for any cracks or damage. If damaged, replace the lint trap or housing as necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Kenmore dryer not catching lint

Community Discussions

not catching lint

Check for airflow issues, clean vents, and remove lint buildup inside the dryer.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!