My google fu is weak today...

We just bought a new washer and dryer. The dryer installation manual says that it needs a separate 30 amp circuit, and the dryer has a 3-prong 30 amp plug (with the L shaped neutral/ground). The apartment, however, has a 50 amp circuit for the dryer, with a corresponding 3 prong receptacle.

If I understand things correctly, that means that the dryer needs to be on a separate circuit that has a minimum of 30 amps available, since the amperage rating of a circuit is based on the total watt load, correct? My
plan is to just replace the receptacle with one that fits the dryer plug. Before I actually do this, can anyone suggest why it's not a good idea, and that I'll just fry either myself, or the dryer, if I do?

I suppose a better option would be to find a cord with a 50 amp plug, and replace the power cord on the dryer -- then I wouldn't need to mess with the apartment's electrical at all. Receptacles are easier to source than spare power cords, however...

Cheers,