Kenmore Dryer: not drying

Possible Causes

Restricted airflow (clogged lint filter or vent)

How to Identify: Clothes remain damp despite adequate heat; dryer feels hot but airflow out of the vent is weak; lint visibly accumulated in filter or vent.

Part: Lint filter / dryer vent

Faulty heating element

How to Identify: Dryer runs but does not generate adequate heat resulting in wet clothes; test with multimeter for continuity.

Part: Heating element

Overloading dryer drum

How to Identify: Damp clothes after cycle with very full drum; removing some clothes improves drying.

Part: Drum load capacity

Faulty thermostat or thermal fuse

How to Identify: Dryer may overheat or shut off prematurely; multimeter test shows no continuity.

Part: Thermostat / thermal fuse

Blower wheel issues

How to Identify: Unusual noises or vibration during operation; poor airflow even with clean vent and filter.

Part: Blower wheel

DIY Solutions

Clean lint filter and dryer vent

Moderate 15-45 minutes

Tools Needed: vacuum with crevice tool, dryer vent brush kit

1. Remove and clean the lint filter after every load.
2. Detach dryer vent hose and use a brush/vacuum to clean lint buildup.
3. Ensure vent outside the house is clear and free of obstructions.

⚠️ Safety First: Unplug dryer before disconnecting vent.

Reduce load size and improve airflow

Easy 5 minutes

1. Remove some items from the drum to ensure it's not overfilled.
2. Run the dryer with smaller loads to improve airflow and tumbling.
3. Avoid mixing heavy and light fabrics in large loads.

Professional Repairs

Replace faulty heating element

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Replace thermostat or thermal fuse

Estimated Cost: $20 - $80 each

Inspect and replace blower wheel

Estimated Cost: $50 - $120

When to Call a Professional

Dryer still fails to heat properly after airflow checks.

Unusual noises, burning smells, or overheating.

Electrical component replacement beyond basic DIY comfort.

Preventive Maintenance

• Clean lint filter: Airflow restriction and fire hazards
  Frequency: after every use
• Clean dryer vent: Blocked airflow leading to damp clothes and longer cycles
  Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer not drying?

Common causes include restricted airflow, a faulty heating element, or overloading the drum.

How do I fix Kenmore Dryer not drying myself?

Clean the lint filter and vent, and reduce load size for better airflow.

How much does it cost to fix not drying?

Professional repairs range from $20 to $150 depending on the issue.

When should I call a technician for not drying?

If DIY solutions don't work or if issues with the heating element or thermostat are suspected.

References & Sources

• Dryer Not Drying? 9 Possible Reasons Community

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

• Thermal fuse issue (2 mentions)
• Clogged dryer vent (1 mentions)
• Moisture sensor malfunction (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

1. Replace the fuse/adapter above the heating element

   Success rate: 17.0%

2. Clean the dryer vent and check the moisture sensor and timer

   Success rate: 17.0%

Community Discussions

not drying

The issue was identified as the fuse/adapter above the heating element.

DIY View on Reddit →

it just says drying but there's no sound from the motor

Remove the front panel to service the dryer instead of the back panel.

DIY View on Reddit →

clothes are damp after auto dry cycle

Clean the dryer vent and check the moisture sensor and timer.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair