When we notice our dryer needing two full cycles to dry clothes, it usually points to something more than just heavy fabrics. That extra cycle adds time, stress, and higher utility bills. Understanding what causes this and how to solve it helps prevent wear on clothes and keeps energy use in check. Let’s break down the most common reasons this happens and what steps can fix the problem for good.

Your Dryer Vent Is Partially Blocked

Many times, airflow issues start at the vent. When lint or debris clogs the vent, hot air can’t escape as it should. This traps moisture inside the drum, making it harder to dry even small loads. Eventually, the machine runs longer to compensate, which raises energy costs and wears out the appliance.

Blocked vents can also be a fire risk. Therefore, it’s important to check for signs like hot surfaces, musty smells, or lint around the vent opening. Cleaning the full vent path from the dryer to the outside wall improves drying speed and keeps the unit running safely. Regular maintenance of the dryer vent, especially if it’s a long or flexible duct, makes a big difference in performance.

The Lint Filter Looks Clean But Isn’t

Sometimes we pull out the lint screen and see only a thin layer, so we assume it’s working well. However, invisible buildup from dryer sheets or fabric softeners can clog the mesh. This limits airflow just like a full lint trap does and adds unnecessary time to each cycle.

In this case, rinsing the screen under warm water and gently scrubbing it with a soft brush clears residue. Do this once a month or more if you use dryer sheets often. Proper airflow helps your dryer finish in one cycle, not two. For more tips like this, our team at appliance repair in Ottawa helps troubleshoot issues before they grow.

Oversized Loads Block Air Circulation

Overloading the drum causes another common drying problem. If clothes can’t tumble freely, air can’t move through the fabric. So even if the dryer heats up, moisture remains trapped inside bundles of clothes, especially towels or blankets.

A quick fix is dividing large loads into two smaller ones. This lets heat and air circulate properly. In turn, that reduces how long the dryer needs to run. Paying attention to load size protects the dryer motor and belt from overuse as well.

Heating Element or Gas Ignitor Is Failing

When cycles take too long, the dryer might not be producing enough heat to evaporate moisture. Electric models rely on a heating element while gas models use an ignitor and burner. Both parts wear out over time or fail without notice.

If clothes still feel damp after an hour, weak or interrupted heating could be to blame. The dryer may turn on and spin but never get hot enough to finish drying. A technician can test these parts safely and replace them if needed. Often, this one repair brings drying time back to normal.

Moisture Sensor Isn’t Working

Modern dryers often use sensors to tell when clothes are dry. These sensors stop the cycle early if the load finishes quickly. But when the sensor gets dirty or fails, it misreads the moisture level and may shut off too soon or not at all.

This leads to clothes staying damp after the first round, even though the dryer thinks it’s done. Cleaning the sensor area with a cloth and rubbing alcohol sometimes restores function. Otherwise, a faulty sensor needs to be replaced. We often see this problem during dryer repair in Ottawa appointments, especially in older units.

Power Supply Is Weak or Interrupted

Another issue to consider is the power source. If an electric dryer doesn’t get a steady 240 volts, it may spin but not heat properly. A tripped breaker or a loose outlet connection can cause reduced performance without fully stopping the machine.

To check this, reset the dryer’s breaker at the panel. If it trips again or if the plug feels hot, a licensed technician should examine the power line. Safe power delivery is key to making sure the dryer heats up as it should.

Poor Placement Restricts Air Exchange

Where the dryer sits in the room also affects performance. If the unit is pushed too close to the wall, the exhaust hose may kink or collapse. This blocks airflow and increases drying time even when other parts are working well.

Try leaving a few inches of space behind the machine for proper hose movement. In tight laundry rooms, use a rigid or semi-rigid vent instead of a flexible one. These hold their shape better and reduce the risk of air blockages. A small change in setup can save a full cycle of drying.

Clothes Go In Too Wet From Washer

Sometimes the dryer isn’t the problem at all. If clothes come out of the washer too wet, it’s harder for the dryer to remove that moisture in one go. This happens when the washer doesn’t spin at full speed or if there’s a drainage issue.

Check if the washer drum finishes with excess water pooled at the bottom or if spin cycles seem slower than usual. In that case, the real fix may be in the washer. Understanding how these two appliances work together helps solve long dry times. If needed, we can handle both washer and dryer repairs under one visit.

Insulation and Humidity Levels in the Room

In cold seasons, drying takes longer due to temperature and humidity changes inside the home. Uninsulated rooms or humid basements make dryers work harder. Moist air doesn’t move as well, especially if the exhaust path runs through cold or damp spaces.

Improving ventilation in the laundry area, using a dehumidifier, or moving the unit to a warmer room can all help. These small adjustments support the dryer’s performance without the need for a full repair. Understanding the space where the machine runs is just as important as the parts inside it.

Schedule an Expert Diagnosis If Problems Continue

When all basic steps still don’t fix the issue, it’s best to have a professional examine the dryer closely. That means checking temperature output, airflow speed, control boards, and internal wiring. A proper inspection avoids guesswork and gets to the heart of the problem fast.

For reliable service in your area, you can always book a service call with Saga Appliance Repair Ottawa. We’ll take a full look at your system and offer a clear path forward. Whether it’s a quick fix or a part replacement, our team handles it with care.

FAQs

Why does my dryer spin but not dry the clothes?
That usually means there’s a heating issue or the airflow is blocked. Check the vent and lint screen first, then inspect the heating element or ignitor.

Can using dryer sheets cause drying problems?
Yes, buildup from dryer sheets can coat the lint filter and moisture sensor. This reduces airflow and makes the dryer run longer than needed.

Is it safe to keep running the dryer for two cycles?
Running two full cycles often overheats the machine and increases fire risk. It’s better to find and fix the issue before it worsens.

How often should I clean the dryer vent?
At least once a year, or more if you do frequent laundry. Blocked vents are one of the most common causes of slow drying and overheating.

Does the washer affect how well the dryer works?
Definitely. If clothes come out too wet, the dryer takes longer to finish. A weak spin cycle or blocked washer drain can lead to longer drying times.