Our 5 year old Zanussi tumble dryer has started taking much longer to dry clothes (6+ hours per load).

It spins the same as it ever did, the filters are clear round the door, and the back of the machine gets hot (from the top corner opposite the power cable), but somehow the air coming into the drum itself is a lot cooler and its cold by the time it leaves the machine.
Got a baby overdue and we're using washable nappies so any help would be hugely appreciated!

Jim McMillan, November 2008

I've been a fool. Taking the exhaust duct out of the machine altogether, the air started blowing warm within 5 minutes. I was confused at first cos there was no obvious blockage in ducts and I could feel a strong draft through it. Eventually checked the external grille for the duct and discovered a dense mat of lint that was sodden from rain and dryer moisture. Zanussi is drying fine now.

Hope posting this helps someone else as dumb as me.

Jim McMillan, November 2008