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Choose your type
There are three types of tumble dryer to choose from.
Condenser
The most popular type of tumble dryer, a condenser tumble dryer can be used anywhere in your home and doesn’t require an external vented hose. A condenser collects moisture from your clothes and stores it in a container, which requires emptying when full. Some models can be fitted with a drain hose to empty this tank for you.
Why choose a condenser tumble dryer?
- Can be installed anywhere in your home
- Often more energy-efficient than vented models
Heat pump
The most eco-friendly option, a heat pump tumble dryer uses low temperatures and re-used hot air to dry your laundry. Not only is this more eco-friendly, but will also cost you less to run.
Why choose a heat pump tumble dryer?
- Provides better protection for your laundry
- No external pipes or hoses
- Eco-friendly and low running costs
Vented
Vented tumble dryers remove moisture from your clothes and feed it outside through a vent. They come with a long hose to help you do this, but you may need to get it installed by a professional if you want to vent the moisture out through a wall. While vented models tend to be the cheapest on the market, they’re also the least energy efficient.
Choose your size
The most popular drum sizes are 8kg and 9kg. Drum size is based on the number of kilos of dry clothing you can fit into the drum. Most medium-sized households will find an 8kg capacity machine perfectly adequate.
7kg tumble dryers
Ideal for individuals or couples – these have a drum capacity for around 35 adult t-shirts or a double duvet.
8kg tumble dryers
Ideal for a family of three – these have a drum capacity for around 40 adult t-shirts or a queen size duvet.
9kg tumble dryers
Ideal for a family of four – these have a drum capacity for around 45 adult t-shirts or a light king size duvet.
10kg tumble dryers
Ideal for large families – these have a drum capacity for around 50 adult t-shirts or a heavy king size duvet.
Best Tumble Dryer Features
Dry cycles and features vary from machine to machine, so when choosing a dryer, make sure it includes the features you need before you buy.
Anti-crease
If you don’t take your clothes out when the cycle finishes, the dryer will spin the drum to stop creases from setting in.
Delay start
You can program your dryer to have your clothes ready at a certain time, such as when you get home from work.
Half load
A half load setting helps save energy and time when you only need to dry a few items of clothing.
Reverse tumble
The drum can rotate both ways during the drying cycle. This helps to prevent tangles and reduce creases.
Filter full indicator
Alerts you to when the filter needs changing. Not cleaning the filter is one of the main reasons dryers become damaged.
Freshen up cycle
Using cool air, a freshen up cycle helps refresh clothes that have become dusty or have a slight odour.