Why you should never overload your dryer

If you had to pick a favourite household chore, laundry would probably sit low on your list! With all the sorting, washing, drying, folding and putting away, it’s tempting to take shortcuts just to get it done faster. When it comes to drying, it’s tempting to shove a full load into the dryer to get the job done faster! This little shortcut however can cause more harm than good. In this blog, we’ll explain why you should never overload your dryer and share some useful tips to keep your dryer running smoothly.

Dryers work by circulating hot air around your clothes as they spin to remove moisture. For this to work effectively, your clothes need plenty of space to tumble freely, allowing for an even air flow. Clothes can clump together when the dryer is overloaded.

What happens when you overload your dryer

• Uneven drying: Clothes in the middle of the load may still be damp, while others dry first. This forces you to run the dryer longer, wasting energy and time.
• Excess wrinkling: Without enough space to tumble, clothes get bunched up, causing deep wrinkles that are hard to iron out later.
• Wear and tear: Overloading can also cause friction between clothes, which can result in fabric damage or uneven drying, especially for more delicate items.
• Higher energy costs: Overstuffed dryers can’t circulate hot air properly, so clothes take much longer to dry. This can waste energy and lead to higher electricity bills.
• Fire hazard: A clogged dryer can overheat, increasing the risk of a fire. Overloading worsens this by restricting airflow, which can cause it to overheat.

How to load your dryer correctly

Dry similar fabrics together

Save time by separating your laundry based on fabric type and weight. Dry lightweight fabrics like cotton on a lower heat setting and heavier fabrics like towels and jeans on a higher heat setting.

Check the user manual

Your dryer’s manual provides specific information about the maximum load capacity. This capacity can vary depending on the model, so it’s important to know the limit for your particular machine. Sticking to this recommendation ensures that your dryer can work efficiently without strain.

Clean the lint filter

One of the most common causes of extended drying times is a buildup of lint in the lint trap or venting system. Clean the lint filter before each load and regularly inspect and clean the venting system to ensure proper airflow. A clogged vent restricts the release of moist air from the dryer, resulting in longer drying times.

Don’t overload your dryer

For your clothes to dry evenly, they need enough space to tumble freely for efficient drying. Aim to fill the dryer about two-thirds full, which allows for proper airflow and even drying.

What happens when you overload your dryer?

Overloading your dryer can put significant strain on your appliance, leading to premature wear and potential failure.

• Wear and tear: Overloading forces your dryer to work harder than it’s designed to. The motor, belts, and bearings must bear extra strain when there’s too much weight in the drum. This can lead to premature wear and tear, meaning you’ll need to replace these parts sooner than expected.
• Overheating: When airflow is restricted because of an overfull drum, the dryer has to work harder to maintain the correct temperature. Over time, this can lead to overheating, which puts stress on the machine’s heating element. Eventually, this could cause the element to burn out.
• Reduced lifespan: Regular overloading shortens the overall lifespan of your dryer, due to the constant strain on its components.

By using your dryer within its intended capacity, you’ll not only protect your clothes but also avoid unnecessary repairs and keep your appliance running efficiently for longer.

Top dryer tips for optimal performance

• Clean the lint filter after each and every load.
• Wipe down the inside of the drum with a damp cloth to keep it clean to prevent lint and debris buildup.
• Make sure the vent hose is free of obstructions and properly connected to the dryer and the vent outside. A blocked vent hose can cause the dryer to overheat.
• Check the drum seal for signs of wear and tear. If it is damaged or worn out, it can cause clothes to get caught and prevent the dryer from working properly. You can find replacement dryer seals here.
• Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
• Make sure the dryer is level and stable. If it wobbles or shakes during operation, adjust the feet to ensure it sits flat on the ground.

Next time laundry day comes around, remember that a little care can go a long way in keeping your dryer working its best.

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