A tumble dryer can be a lifesaver in winter, keeping laundry routines running smoothly – but common mistakes could be wasting energy and money
Winter weather brings a host of annual challenges, from dampness and mould issues to soaring energy costs. Drying soggy washing quickly during the colder months is particularly tricky, with garments often languishing damp on clothes horses for days on end.
A tumble dryer can prove invaluable, ensuring your laundry routine stays on track regardless of what Mother Nature throws at you. However, it’s crucial to maintain your appliances properly to ensure they operate at peak efficiency.
Fortunately, there are straightforward practices you can embrace to extend your machine’s lifespan whilst cutting energy consumption, according to Adam Norris, Senior Product Manager for Dishwashing and Laundry at Hotpoint.
Highlighting the primary error many households commit, Adam explained: “Putting very wet clothes straight into your tumble dryer makes the machine work a lot harder than it needs to. Running an extra spin cycle reduces drying time, and over time, saves a significant amount of energy.”
Among the simplest yet most crucial tasks is one that countless people neglect – and ignoring it can seriously impact your dryer’s effectiveness, reports the Express.
Adam added: “Cleaning the lint filter after every cycle is important. A clean filter keeps your dryer running efficiently and more importantly prevents unnecessary wear on the machine. It only takes seconds, but it makes a world of difference.”
Cramming excessive clothing into the drum may appear to save time, but it can actually hamper drying performance. “When you have a full drum, hot air cannot circulate,” the expert explained.
“This creates longer cycles, uneven drying, and strain on the motor. Always dry small balanced loads as it’s much more efficient.”
Fragile items can suffer damage from standard dryer settings – selecting the appropriate programme can spare you from lengthy ironing sessions afterwards.
“Always read garment labels and choose either a gentle or low heat cycle for delicates,” Adam recommended. “Many modern dryers have dedicated programmes for materials like wool that protect the fibres but give you great results.”
Just like other household appliances, your tumble dryer requires routine maintenance to continue operating effectively.
The appliance specialist explained: “Condenser dryers have water tanks that need emptying, while heat pump dryers have secondary filters that require cleaning. Keeping up with these simple tasks helps maintain efficiency and extends the lifespan of your dryer.”
Lastly, he emphasised the crucial need to provide adequate space around tumble dryers, particularly standalone condenser and vented units, for proper ventilation, stating: “Make sure the air intake and air vents are not blocked. Good airflow prevents the dryer from overworking. Position your machine with enough surrounding space and check it periodically.”
