Kenmore Elite dryer not drying

Common reasons your Kenmore Elite dryer is not drying

The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite dryer is not drying are a clogged vent tube, open heating element or a bad wire connector.

  • 45%

    45% of the time it's the
    Vent Tube

  • 14%

    14% of the time it's the
    Heating Element

  • 14%

    14% of the time it's the
    Wire Connector

  • 27%

    27% of the time it's the
    Something else

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Most common repairs needed to fix a Kenmore Elite dryer

Vent Tube Replacement

A clogged vent tube is one of the most common causes for a dryer not drying clothes. When the vent tube is clogged, air won’t flow through the dryer. Warm moist air will stay in the dryer drum and clothes won’t dry. When clothes are taking a long time to dry, have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and examine the dryer. The technician will determine whether a clogged vent is causing the drying problem.

Heating Element Replacement

An open heating element could be causing the problem when your dryer is not drying. “Open” means that the heating element is broken and current isn’t flowing through the element to produce heat. You may not see physical damage on the heating element for it to be electrically open. An interior break in the continuity of the element can prevent it from heating. When your dryer isn’t heating, have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and fix the dryer.

Wire Connector Replacement

A bad wire connector in the heating circuit or control circuit can keep the dryer from drying clothes. A disconnected wire on the heating element will prevent the element from heating. A loose wire on the moisture sensor will fool the control into thinking clothes are dry while the garments are still damp. A bad wire connector on the control board can keep the control from managing the drying cycle properly. When your dryer isn’t drying clothes properly, schedule service and have a Sears Home Services Technician check the dryer. The technician will check the wire connectors and fix any problems.

What to expect when you experience a Kenmore Elite dryer not drying issue

How is the not drying problem fixed?

Correcting most not drying problems usually involves replacing the vent tube, heating element or wire connector. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dryer that is not drying

When the dryer is not drying it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

What to look out for with a dryer not drying diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dryer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

If your Kenmore Elite dryer spins but leaves clothes damp, vent blockages or sensor issues may be restricting airflow. Quick lint checks may not clear hidden clogs. Book dryer fix near me for thorough ventilation fixes. One-and-done drying saves time and energy.

What our customers say about us

With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it

Excellent service from Daniel

Daniel provided excellent service and was very quick to perform the repair. I have nothing good to say about the warranty program and the LACK of customer service and the inability to contact a human being to talk.


Tammy M, Hilton, NY

Satisfied customer

Excellent technician Very thorough and detail oriented Would be happy to have him work on appliances again He managed to find our ranch headquarters in the middle of the desert


Rose W, Las Cruces, NM

Dryer service

He was professional and polite. I didn't call back later that afternoon, although he replaced a thermostat the smart dry timer doesn't work as I was still having the same issue. The lady said she would email him and have him return. Never heard from anyone else.


Terry F, Oklahoma City, OK

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t my Kenmore Elite dryer drying clothes?
A clogged vent, faulty heating element, or malfunctioning thermal fuse could prevent the dryer from drying clothes. Inspect these components for damage or blockages.
Could a clogged vent stop my Kenmore Elite dryer from drying clothes?
Yes, if the vent is clogged, the dryer won’t be able to expel moisture effectively. Cleaning the vent should restore drying functionality.
How can I fix my Kenmore Elite dryer if it’s not drying clothes?
Check the vent, heating element, and thermal fuse for faults. Replacing any damaged parts should restore drying.
What should I do if my Kenmore Elite dryer continues not to dry clothes after cleaning the vent?
If the issue persists, the heating element or control board may need professional inspection and repair.

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Glossary Terms

A dryer drum is the main interior component of a clothes dryer where clothes are placed to be dried. It rotates during the drying cycle, allowing heated air to circulate through the clothes.

A dryer filter, commonly known as a lint filter, is a component of a clothes dryer that captures lint and other debris from clothes during the drying process, preventing them from clogging the dryer vent.

A dryer pedestal is a platform that elevates a dryer off the ground, making it easier to load and unload laundry while also providing additional storage space in some models.

A dryer rack is an accessory for clothes dryers that provides a stationary platform to dry items without tumbling, ideal for delicate or bulky items, or shoes that might be damaged by the usual drying cycle.