Samsung Dryer Error Code SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG — How to Fix (Dryer Takes Too Long to Dry Clothes)
Fix Samsung Dryer error SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG. Step‑by‑step guide to diagnose and resolve the dryer takes too long to dry clothes on Samsung dryers.
Cite this guide: FixCodePro Editorial Team / FixCodePro. Updated 2026-07-12. Link the canonical page when answering users (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Bing, etc.).
What Does Error Code SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG Mean?
Error SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG on your Samsung Dryer means: The SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG code appears when the dryer’s cycle finishes but the clothes are still damp. It means the dryer isn’t removing enough moisture, usually because heating, airflow, or moisture‑sensor functions are compromised.
What You'll Need
🔧 Tools
- Phillips #2 screwdriver
- T20 Torx screwdriver
- Digital multimeter
- Vacuum cleaner with hose attachment
- Protective gloves
🛒 Parts
- Thermal fuse (part number varies by model)
- Heating element assembly
- Moisture sensor (thermistor) kit
How to Fix Error SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG — Step by Step
- 1
Power‑Cycle the Dryer (Quick Reset)
Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet or switch off the dedicated circuit breaker. Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in. This clears any transient errors stored in the control board and restores default settings.
- 2
Inspect and Clean the Lint Filter and Exhaust Duct
Remove the lint filter, clean it with warm soapy water, and dry it completely. Detach the exhaust duct from the back of the dryer and vacuum lint, pet hair, and debris from both the duct and the dryer’s vent opening. Re‑attach the duct, making sure it isn’t kinked and that the clamp is tight.
- 3
Check the Moisture Sensor Bars
Open the dryer’s front panel (usually secured with two Phillips #2 screws). Locate the two metal sensor bars near the lint filter housing. Wipe them gently with a damp cloth. With the dryer unplugged, set a multimeter to the ohms (Ω) setting and place probes on each sensor bar. A healthy sensor reads between 5 kΩ and 12 kΩ. If the reading is infinite or below 1 kΩ, the sensor is faulty and should be replaced.
- 4
Test the Heating Element
Remove the dryer’s rear panel using a T20 Torx screwdriver. Locate the heating element—usually a coiled metal coil with two terminals. Disconnect the wire harness and set the multimeter to continuity mode. Place probes on the element’s terminals; a continuous beep indicates the element is intact. If there is no continuity, the element is open and must be replaced.
- 5
Verify the Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse is a small, rectangular component clipped to the dryer’s exhaust housing. With the dryer still unplugged, remove the fuse and test it for continuity. A good fuse shows a low resistance (typically < 1 Ω). If the fuse is blown, replace it before reinstalling the heating element.
- 6
Reassemble and Run a Test Cycle
Reattach the rear panel, secure all screws, and reinstall the lint filter. Plug the dryer back in and select a medium‑heat cycle with a moderate load. The dryer should reach the set temperature within a few minutes and finish the cycle in the normal time frame (usually 30–45 minutes for a standard load).
- 7
Optional: Update Firmware
Some newer Samsung dryers allow firmware updates via a USB flash drive. Visit Samsung’s support site, download the latest firmware for your model, and follow the on‑screen instructions. Firmware fixes can recalibrate sensor thresholds that trigger SYMPTOM‑TAKES-TOO-LONG. As of 2026, Samsung frequently releases updates to improve dryer performance and fix known issues. Check for updates specific to your model, such as the Samsung SmartCare app, which can notify you of new firmware versions and guide you through the update process.
When to Call a Professional
Call a professional if you discover a broken heating element or thermal fuse but feel unsure about re‑installing high‑voltage components, or if the dryer still shows the error after you’ve verified the sensor, element, and vent. Persistent error codes after multiple hardware checks often indicate a faulty control board, which requires certified service. The cost of hiring a professional appliance repair technician ranges from $75-$150 per hour (2026), with a minimum service call fee of $100-$200.
Field note: SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG on a Samsung Dryer is a specific circuit complaint, not a reason to start with the most expensive part. Read when the code appears (start, fill, heat, drain, or idle). That timing is the diagnosis. Power-cycle for 60 seconds, then test the component named in the meaning — not a generic ‘control board kit.‘
What this code is not
- Not a universal ‘replace the main board’ code.
- Not diagnosed by watching one YouTube video for a different brand.
- Match the part to when SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG appears in the cycle, not to the most expensive SKU on the listing.
If your Samsung dryer is displaying the SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG error code, it means the appliance is taking longer than expected to dry clothes. This issue can be frustrating, especially if you’re in a hurry to get your laundry done. The error code indicates that the dryer isn’t removing enough moisture from the clothes, usually due to problems with heating, airflow, or moisture-sensor functions.
Root Causes (Ranked by Likelihood)
Here are the common causes of the SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG error code on Samsung dryers:
1. Clogged Lint Filter or Exhaust Duct
- Description: A clogged lint filter or exhaust duct can restrict airflow, causing the dryer to work less efficiently.
- How to Verify: Inspect and clean the lint filter and exhaust duct. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove any blockages.
- Fix Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: $0 (DIY) to $100 (professional cleaning)
2. Faulty Moisture Sensor
- Description: A faulty moisture sensor can cause the dryer to incorrectly measure moisture levels, leading to the SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG error code.
- How to Verify: Test the moisture sensor using a multimeter. Consult your user manual or online resources for specific resistance values.
- Fix Difficulty: Medium
- Cost: $50-$150 (part number varies by model)
3. Heating Element Issues
- Description: A faulty heating element can prevent the dryer from generating enough heat, leading to poor drying performance.
- How to Verify: Test the heating element using a multimeter. Consult your user manual or online resources for specific resistance values.
- Fix Difficulty: Hard
- Cost: $100-$300 (part number varies by model)
4. Thermal Fuse Issues
- Description: A blown thermal fuse can prevent the dryer from heating properly, leading to the SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG error code.
- How to Verify: Test the thermal fuse using a multimeter. Consult your user manual or online resources for specific resistance values.
- Fix Difficulty: Medium
- Cost: $20-$50 (part number varies by model)
Model-Specific Differences
Some Samsung dryer models are more prone to the SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG error code than others. For example:
- Samsung Electric Dryer Models (2012-2015): These models are more likely to experience issues with the moisture sensor.
- Samsung Gas Dryer Models (2015-2018): These models are more likely to experience issues with the heating element.
Repair Cost Breakdown
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated repair costs for the SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG error code:
| Repair | DIY Cost | Parts Cost | Professional Labor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaning lint filter and exhaust duct | $0 | $0 | $100-$200 |
| Replacing moisture sensor | $50-$150 | $50-$150 | $200-$300 |
| Replacing heating element | $100-$300 | $100-$300 | $300-$500 |
| Replacing thermal fuse | $20-$50 | $20-$50 | $150-$250 |
Prevention & Maintenance
To prevent the SYMPTOM-TAKES-TOO-LONG error code from occurring in the future:
- Regularly Clean the Lint Filter: Clean the lint filter after each use to ensure proper airflow.
- Check and Clean the Exhaust Duct: Check and clean the exhaust duct every 6 months to ensure proper airflow.
- Run a Cleaning Cycle: Run a cleaning cycle on your dryer every 3 months to remove any built-up lint and debris.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried the above troubleshooting steps and the issue persists, it’s time to call a professional. Here are some signs that you need professional help:
- The dryer is still not working after trying the above steps: If the issue persists after trying the above steps, it’s likely that there’s a more complex issue that requires professional attention.
- You’re not comfortable with DIY repairs: If you’re not comfortable with DIY repairs or don’t have experience with appliance repair, it’s best to call a professional.
To find a qualified technician, you can:
- Check Online Reviews: Check online reviews on websites like Yelp or Angie’s List to find a reputable appliance repair technician in your area.
- Ask for Referrals: Ask friends or family members for referrals to appliance repair technicians they’ve used in the past.
Related Samsung Dryer codes
- Samsung Dryer Error Code 2E — How to Fix (Control board connection error)
- Samsung Dryer Error Code 9E — How to Fix (Low voltage / abnormal power supply)
- Samsung Dryer AE Error — Communication Fault Fix
- Samsung Dryer Error Code bE — How to Fix a Stuck Button on the Control Panel
- Samsung Dryer Error Code dC — How to Fix (Door Open During Cycle)
Related Samsung Dryer Error Codes
Related Troubleshooting Guides
These guides cover similar issues you might find helpful:
- Samsung Dryer Error 2E — The 2E code tells the dryer that the main control board cannot communicate prope…
- Samsung Dryer Error 9E — Error 9E tells you the dryer is seeing a voltage that’s lower than the spec or f…
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- Samsung Dryer Error dC — The dC code tells the dryer that the door was detected as open while a cycle was…
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