Electric Whirlpool Duet dryer GEW9200 not drying properly

[swechsler]

Clothes get hot but drying takes much longer than it should, even on highest temperature, and when using the timed cycle rather than the moisture sensors. I compared with a newer Duet dryer for comparison and it takes a normal amount of time, so I know my expectations are not off (the GEW9200 takes about twice as long to dry as the newer one, assuming an equivalent load). Here's what I've tried, none of these have changed anything:

• Ran dryer without vent hose attached
• Cleaned lint filter with soft brush and soapy water
• Opened up machine front and back and removed all lint from inside to ensure proper airflow
• Tightened bracket holding duct leading from squirrel cage blower to drum (bad design here, only a single screw holding it in)

There appears to be decent airflow coming out of the vent but I have no way of measuring. Blower blades appear to be in good condition. What have I missed?

 

[Vance R]

Model number listed is not complete, looked up GEW9200LW1. It has a front bottom cover that is removable.  Remove the cover and you will see the heater box, bend the end shield down so you can observe the heating element. Start a dry cycle and watch the heating element - it should glow a dark red to red color with the front part of the element being a little darker. This indicates good airflow. If the element glows a bright red and glows all the way to the front there is a airflow issue.  One of the most over looked area is the drum seals. If the seals leak there will be good airflow out of the vent, but poor airflow through the heater box. sometimes there is lint build up at the back of the heater box to duct area. Sometimes the heating elemnet will sag and touch the metal box causing low heat output. 

[16345Ed]

Is washer leaving clothes sopping wet? Maybe a washer spin issue?

[swechsler]

22 hours ago, Vance R said:

Model number listed is not complete, looked up GEW9200LW1. It has a front bottom cover that is removable.  Remove the cover and you will see the heater box, bend the end shield down so you can observe the heating element. Start a dry cycle and watch the heating element - it should glow a dark red to red color with the front part of the element being a little darker. This indicates good airflow. If the element glows a bright red and glows all the way to the front there is a airflow issue.  One of the most over looked area is the drum seals. If the seals leak there will be good airflow out of the vent, but poor airflow through the heater box. sometimes there is lint build up at the back of the heater box to duct area. Sometimes the heating elemnet will sag and touch the metal box causing low heat output. 

Thanks, I will check the drum seals. I did check for lint in the heater box, nothing significant.

[swechsler]

6 hours ago, 16345Ed said:

Is washer leaving clothes sopping wet? Maybe a washer spin issue?

No, I tried a different dryer with this washer and it worked perfectly.

[CrazyCarl]

Did you confirm that good airflow where the vent is outside?