Tumble Dryer Overheating
If your tumble dryer is overheating, the appliance is reaching temperatures higher than it should during the drying cycle. This can cause the machine to stop mid-cycle, trip its thermal protection or in serious cases pose a fire risk. Overheating should always be investigated and resolved promptly.
View all tumble dryer error codes
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Select your tumble dryer brand below for a specific guide including the relevant error codes for your appliance.
Why Is My Tumble Dryer Overheating?
Tumble dryer overheating is almost always caused by restricted airflow — when hot air cannot circulate and escape from the machine properly, temperatures rise rapidly. The most common cause is a blocked lint filter, which is why cleaning the filter after every single cycle is so important. Do not continue to use a tumble dryer that is overheating until the cause has been identified and resolved.
Common Causes
Blocked lint filter
The most common cause by far. The lint filter must be cleaned after every single drying cycle. A blocked filter prevents hot air from flowing through the machine, causing temperatures to rise rapidly.
Blocked condenser (condenser and heat pump dryers)
A clogged condenser restricts airflow through the machine and prevents heat from being dissipated correctly.
Blocked exhaust duct (vented dryers)
On vented tumble dryers, a kinked, crushed or blocked exhaust duct prevents hot damp air from escaping. The duct should be as short and straight as possible with no sharp bends.
Machine installed in a confined space without adequate ventilation
All tumble dryers require adequate ventilation around them to operate safely. If the machine is enclosed in a tight cupboard with no airflow, it will overheat.
Faulty thermostat
A faulty thermostat may fail to cut off the heating element at the correct temperature, allowing the machine to continue heating beyond safe limits.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Stop the machine immediately
If you notice the machine is excessively hot to the touch or smell burning, switch it off at the mains immediately and allow it to cool completely before investigating.
Clean the lint filter
Remove the lint filter and clean it thoroughly. This is the single most important maintenance task on any tumble dryer.
Clean the condenser
Remove the condenser unit, rinse it thoroughly under running water, allow it to dry completely and refit it firmly.
Check the exhaust duct (vented dryers)
Inspect the exhaust duct for any kinks, blockages or crushing. Ensure it is routed as directly as possible to the outside with no sharp bends. Clean out any lint build-up inside the duct.
Check ventilation around the machine
Ensure there is adequate space around the machine for air to circulate. Do not install the machine in a fully enclosed space without ventilation.
When To Contact A Professional
If the machine continues to overheat after cleaning the filters and checking the duct, the thermostat or heating element is likely faulty and will need to be tested and replaced by a qualified engineer. Do not continue to use an overheating tumble dryer. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Tumble Dryer Fault Guides
Tumble Dryer Stopping Mid-Cycle
Tumble Dryer Not Drying Clothes Properly
Tumble Dryer Taking Too Long To Dry
Related Guides
Tumble dryer error codes — all brands
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