There are many different types of tumble dryers on the market, so how do you choose the best one for you? This tumble dryers buying guide guide will give you a brief outline of popular appliances, along with pros and cons, and simple maintenance tips…
Vented Dryers
Vented tumble dryers are generally less expensive as they need to be positioned by a window or door to let the damp air out - you may be able to have an external vent fitted into the wall to solve this problem. A hose takes the air outside the home to avoid condensation - not all machines will be supplied with a venting kit.
Condenser Dryers
Condenser dryers collect the water removed from clothes and hold it in a container, which needs to be emptied regularly. Some models will allow excess water to be pumped out when there is suitable plumbing. The room where the dryer is will need to be well ventilated. Many condenser models now feature heat pump technology that result in greater efficiency and lower costs. These appliances shouldn’t be put in a garage or outbuilding due to operating within a specific temperature range.
Heat Pump Dryers
Heat pump tumble dryers are the most efficient tumble dryers, and use a lower drying temperature to use less electricity and so lower utility bills. This heat pump technology is also very quiet and gentle on clothing. The dryers re-circulate warm air rather than letting it escape, passing it through the pump to re-use. This process avoids the need for ducting and conserves much of the heat making them very energy efficient. As with condenser dryers these machines are unsuitable for garage and outbuilding locations.
Integrated Tumble Dryers
Integrated tumble dryers are clothes dryers that can be integrated into the furniture – they can be fully integrated so not seen at all, or partially integrated, depending on preference. This type of dryer is ideal if you have the appliance located in the kitchen, as it can be tucked away from sight. Built in tumble dryers have reduced significantly in cost, and most are now vented for ease of use.
Maintenance Tips
Keeping your tumble dryer clean and well maintained will ensure it lasts for many years. You’ll need to clean the lint filters every time you use the dryer to keep it running at peak efficiency. If the dryer uses a sensor the drum will need to be wiped down every few months with a stainless steel cleaner.
For condenser dryers the heat exchanger will need to be regularly removed and washed under a tap to remove built up dirt and hair. Water reservoirs will have to be emptied after each load to make sure that each drying cycle can be completed without having to stop halfway to empty the tank.
Don’t be tempted to overload the dryer as this can cause overheating. Duvets and blankets shouldn’t be dried this way, nor should some clothing items – check the care labels to make sure. To reduce drying times sort different fabrics and put like ones in together, this also saves energy and increases the evenness of drying. If you loosen the laundry before putting it into the dryer this also helps with crease reduction.
Tumble Dryer Repairs
If you get any problems with your tumble dryer you should contact a tumble dryer repairs company online that’ll give you a fast and effective service for an affordable rate. You’ll be able to get a quote before you agree to any work, and you won’t need to pay a deposit. Make sure your appliance repair service also comes with a guarantee!
