Drying cycle of washer dryer takes too long, too short or not drying at all

Issue

• The drying cycle of washer dryer takes too long
• The drying cycle of washer dryer takes too short
• Washer dryer not drying
• Poor drying results in the washer-dryer
• Laundry is still damp after washing & drying cycle

Applies to

• Washer-dryers

Resolution

If the washer dryer does not dry at all or does not dry properly and the laundry is damp at the end of the program, check the following:

1. Check that the water supply is turned on

The washer dryer uses water during the drying cycle to cool components and condense moisture. If the water tap is closed, drying performance may be reduced or the drying programme may not operate correctly.

2. Reduce the laundry load

The maximum drying capacity is usually lower than the maximum washing capacity.

If you use a Non-Stop wash and dry cycle, ensure the load does not exceed the maximum drying load specified in the user manual. An overloaded drum prevents hot air from circulating effectively, which can result in damp laundry and longer drying times.

3. Select the correct drying programme

Choose a drying programme suitable for the fabric type and load size.

Programmes may automatically adjust the drying time depending on the amount of laundry and the remaining moisture level. If the selected programme is too short, clothes may still feel damp at the end of the cycle.

Refer to the programme table in the user manual for recommended settings.

Download user manual

4. Clean the drain filter

A blocked drain filter can affect water removal and overall drying performance.

Clean the drain filter according to the instructions in the user manual.

See related article: How to clean and maintain your washer dryer

5. Check and clean the air filters (heat pump washer dryers only)

Restricted airflow can significantly increase drying times and reduce drying performance.

Clean the primary and secondary air filters according to the maintenance instructions.

See related article: Washer dryer displays "Check Air Filter" indicator

6. Separate large and small items

Large items such as bedding and towels can wrap around smaller garments during the drying cycle.

This may cause some items to remain damp even when the programme has finished.

7. Check the spin performance

Laundry that remains very wet after the wash cycle will require significantly longer drying times.

Where appropriate, select a higher spin speed before starting the drying programme.

Important

• The drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity on most washer dryers.
• Washer dryers require a water supply during drying.
• Drying times vary according to fabric type, load size, moisture level, and room conditions.
• Thick fabrics such as towels and bedding may require longer drying times than light garments.

When Is It Not A Fault?

The following behaviour is normal:

• Drying programmes may end earlier than the displayed time if sensors detect that the laundry has reached the selected dryness level.
• Drying times can increase automatically for larger or wetter loads.
• Some fabrics may feel slightly damp immediately after drying and become fully dry as they cool.
• Drying a full wash load may require removing part of the laundry before starting the drying cycle.

Cause

FAQ – Drying Cycle Takes Too Long or Laundry Remains Damp

Why is my washer dryer not drying clothes properly?
The most common causes are overloading, a blocked filter, restricted airflow, or an unsuitable drying programme.

Why does the drying cycle take so long?
Large loads, wet laundry, blocked filters, and certain fabric types can increase drying times.

Why does the drying programme finish too quickly?
The sensors may detect that the selected dryness level has been reached and end the cycle automatically.

Does a washer dryer need water during drying?
Yes. Most washer dryers use water during drying to help remove moisture from the laundry.

Is it normal for drying times to change automatically?
Yes. The washer dryer adjusts drying time based on load size and moisture levels.

When should I book service?
If drying performance remains poor after cleaning the filters, reducing the load, and selecting the correct programme, there may be a fault requiring service.