When it comes to household chores, tumble dryers can make all the difference, especially during the colder, wetter months. But with so many different types available, it can be tricky to know which one is right for you.
If your current tumble dryer isn’t working, call an electrician before you condemn it to the recycling centre; there may be an easy fix. If it’s beyond repair or you’re investing in your first dryer, here’s what you need to know.
Vented dryers
Vented dryers expel hot, damp air through a hose, which usually needs to go out of a window or through a wall vent.
Pros:
- Generally the cheapest option to buy.
- Simple design means they’re often reliable and easy to repair.
- Usually dry clothes quickly.
Cons:
- Need to be placed near an external wall or window for ventilation.
- Less energy-efficient compared to newer technologies.
- Limited installation options if space is tight.
Condenser dryers
Condenser dryers collect moisture from clothes in a tank, which you empty after each cycle, or they can be plumbed in to drain automatically.
Pros:
- Can be installed almost anywhere, no vent needed.
- Easier to move if you change homes or rearrange your laundry space.
- Usually mid-range in terms of price.
Cons:
- Water tank needs regular emptying (unless plumbed).
- Less energy-efficient than heat pump dryers.
- Can generate more heat and moisture in the room, so ventilation is still recommended.
Heat pump dryers
This type of condenser dryer reuses hot air to dry clothes, making them much more energy-efficient.
Pros:
- Very energy-efficient, saving money on electricity bills.
- Gentle on fabrics, reducing wear and tear.
- No external vent required.
Cons:
- More expensive upfront.
- Drying cycles can take longer than with vented or condenser dryers.
- Slightly more complex technology, which can mean higher repair costs.
Washer-dryer combos
A single appliance that washes and dries clothes.
Pros:
- Space-saving – perfect for smaller homes or flats.
- No need to move laundry from one machine to another.
- Convenient if you only do small loads at a time.
Cons:
- Drying capacity is usually smaller than washing capacity, so you can’t dry a full wash load at once.
- Less energy-efficient than standalone dryers.
- If it breaks, you lose both washer and dryer functions.
Choosing the right tumble dryer for you
The right tumble dryer for your needs depends on a range of factors including your budget, space and location restrictions, and your energy-saving priorities.
If you’re on a budget, a vented dryer will probably be the best option for you, although it will cost more in the longer term. If you don’t have space to fit a tumble dryer hose, you’ll need to opt for a condenser dryer or heat pump dryer. If space is a problem, then a washer-dryer will be the right choice, and if your priority is long-term energy efficiency, then a heat pump dryer is best as it uses half as much energy as a vented dryer.