What Keeps A Dryer Running And How To Check It
Settings That Intentionally Keep The Drum Moving
Many models offer wrinkle care options that periodically tumble without heat after the cycle ends. If Wrinkle Care or WrinkleShield is on, your dryer will continue to turn even though heat has stopped. Disable that option, then run an automatic sensor cycle to verify proper shut-off.
Airflow That Forces Long Cycles
Restricted venting makes the dryer think items are still damp. As a result, automatic cycles extend or repeat. First, clean the lint screen. Next, check that the exhaust uses rigid metal duct, not plastic or thin foil, and that the run is short with few elbows. If the vent is long or has multiple turns, your machine may never reach its designed airflow, so it will overrun. Compare your setup to the manufacturer’s maximum equivalent length chart; shorten or reconfigure if you exceed it.
Moisture Sensors That Read “Wet” When Clothes Are Dry
Two metal bars inside the drum sense moisture. Fabric softener residue can coat the bars and trick the control into running longer. Clean the bars with a light vinegar solution on a soft cloth, then recheck on an automatic cycle. If readings do not change, the sensor or harness may require testing or replacement.
Thermostats, Timers, And Relays
If the dryer runs beyond a timed cycle or keeps heating inappropriately, a stuck timer, welded heater relay, or failed cycling thermostat is possible. However, verify airflow and sensor issues first; they are more common and less costly. If heat never shuts off, disconnect power immediately and book service to prevent damage.
Quick Checks You Can Do Safely
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Turn off wrinkle-prevent features and run an automatic cycle.
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Clean the lint screen and sensor bars; avoid dryer sheets for the test.
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Inspect the transition duct behind the dryer for kinks or crushing.
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Confirm the vent route is rigid metal and exits outdoors.
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Compare vent length and elbows to your model’s limits; shorten if needed.
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For gas models, ensure the burner lights promptly and cycles off; if it short-cycles or never lights, stop and call a licensed gas fitter.
When To Stop And Call A Pro
Gas Safety And Permits
Work on gas dryers, venting, or gas piping often requires a licensed contractor and, in some provinces, a permit. If you suspect poor combustion, delayed ignition, or you smell gas, stop using the appliance and schedule a licensed gas technician.
Electrical Hazards
If the drum or heater keeps running with the timer at off, or if the breaker trips repeatedly, the control or heater circuit may be faulted. Do not continue to operate the unit; an electrician or appliance technician should test the circuit and components against local electrical code.
Venting Beyond Rated Limits
Long, concealed, or condo-style runs often exceed what the dryer can handle. In practice, we find that cutting total equivalent length and replacing foil with smooth rigid duct restores automatic shut-off. Municipal fire services also advise rigid or semi-rigid metal only. Consequently, if you cannot re-route yourself, book a pro who installs to manufacturer specs.
Symptoms That Require Professional Attention
• Drum tumbles indefinitely even on a timed cycle.
• Clothes feel very hot, or the cabinet smells scorched.
• The burner or element stays on constantly, or heat never appears.
• The vent hood outside never opens during a cycle.
• The run includes plastic or foil duct, multiple elbows, or a booster fan.
Field Notes From Service Calls
Our repair specialist sees three patterns repeatedly. First, wrinkle-prevent settings left on, which look like endless drying. Second, vent paths that exceed the model’s chart by one elbow or one long run. Third, moisture sensors coated by dryer sheet film. Correcting those restores normal automatic shut-off in most homes. When none of these fix it, control relays or cycling thermostats are the next checks with a meter.
FAQ
Why does Time Dry finish but clothes are still damp?
Time Dry ignores moisture. Use an automatic sensor cycle so the dryer can stop when fabrics are actually dry. This also reduces wear. For consistent results, restore proper airflow first.
Could the issue be my condo vent?
Often yes. Long vertical ducting adds elbows and static pressure. Even a clean screen cannot compensate. Compare your run to the model’s vent chart, then shorten, smooth, or professionally clean to restore airflow.
Are dryer sheets a problem?
Residue from sheets can coat the moisture sensor and the lint screen, which can extend run time. Clean both surfaces and try again. If performance improves, switch to liquid fabric softener or use dryer balls.
Is it safe to use flexible foil duct?
It kinks and crushes easily, traps lint, and can overheat. Municipal guidance prefers rigid or semi-rigid metal duct vented outdoors. Replace foil with rigid metal and reduce elbows where possible.
My gas dryer tumbles with no heat and takes ages. What now?
Gas valve coil or ignition issues can cause long cycles with repeated tumbles. Because gas work is regulated, book a licensed gas technician to diagnose under the applicable permit framework.
Sources
- Whirlpool Dryer Venting Specifications, manufacturer installation guidance on maximum equivalent length and airflow.
- Samsung Support, cycles and wrinkle care features that continue tumbling after dry.
- City of Toronto Fire Services, dryer fire safety and duct material guidance.
- Technical Safety BC, homeowner and contractor gas permit scope for appliances.
- Ontario Electrical Safety Authority, reference to provincial electrical code framework for appliance circuits.
