Millions of UK households have been drying clothes on radiators as the country's erratic weather continues, but experts warn this habit could be causing serious boiler damage. With temperatures swinging from cold to mild, many people are turning heating on and off, and draping wet laundry over radiators during rainy spells.
Why Drying Clothes on Radiators Is Harmful
While it might seem harmless, drying washing on radiators forces boilers to work harder for longer and traps moisture indoors, increasing the risk of damp and condensation. Poor ventilation when drying laundry indoors can also lead to mould growth around windows, walls, and ceilings, and push energy bills higher.
Martin Lewis' Money Saving Experts advise that ventilation, not heat, is key to drying clothes faster. Alex, an expert, explained: "Quite surprisingly, people used to wash and dry clothes before central heating. Ventilation is the key; the landlord won't thank you for damp, mouldy growth caused by excess humidity." Another expert added: "I use a dehumidifier, put clothes on an airer in the bathroom, and they dry quickly."
Stop-Start Weather Strains Boilers
Heating specialists BOXT caution that Britain's unpredictable spring weather places boilers under strain months before winter. Repeated stop-start operation can cause pressure issues, trapped air, sludge accumulation, and general deterioration. Adam Knight, lead Gas Safe engineer at BOXT, said: "A lot of people assume boilers only come under pressure in winter, but stop-start weather patterns can be just as tough. Add wet washing on radiators, and boilers work much harder than people realise."
Warning Signs Your Boiler May Be Struggling
- Radiators taking longer to heat up
- Inconsistent heat distribution
- Gurgling, banging, or whistling sounds
- Boiler pressure dropping repeatedly
- Heating cutting out unexpectedly
- Hot water temperature varying
Expert Tips for Safe Drying and Boiler Care
To avoid costly winter emergencies, experts recommend the following:
- Avoid radiators for drying clothes: Use a heated airer, dehumidifier, or run an extra spin cycle.
- Check boiler pressure now: Most boilers should maintain between 1 and 2 bar.
- Arrange a boiler service before winter: Summer and early autumn appointments are easier and cheaper to book.
- Bleed radiators before cold sets in: Cold spots or gurgling sounds indicate trapped air.
- Don't dismiss unusual noises: Banging, whistling, or 'kettling' may signal sludge or circulation issues.
Spotting these problems early can help households sidestep expensive emergency callouts during colder months. Spring and summer are ideal times to identify potential issues before they escalate.
