Best Vented Tumble Dryers

Best Tumble Dryers for 2024: Appliance Centre Best Buys and Expert Advice

Choosing the right tumble dryer can be challenging with various options available. Our guide will help you decide between heat pump, condenser, and vented dryers, and provide expert advice on drum capacities, features, and running costs. We compare top brands like AEG, Bosch, Hotpoint, and Miele to find the best model for your needs.

Should You Buy a Heat Pump, Vented, or Condenser Tumble Dryer?

Heat Pump Tumble Dryers

Heat pump tumble dryers are known for their energy efficiency, using less than half the energy of vented or condenser dryers. They heat air efficiently and reuse warm air, making them the most sustainable option.

Pros:

• Highly energy-efficient
• No need for a vent or hose
• Lower running costs

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost
• Longer drying times

Running Costs: Around £51 per year.

Condenser Tumble Dryers

Condenser tumble dryers collect moisture in a water reservoir, eliminating the need for a vent. They offer more installation flexibility but tend to be more expensive to run than heat pump dryers.

Pros:

• No need for a vent
• Flexible installation

Cons:

• Higher running costs
• Must empty the water reservoir regularly

Running Costs: Around £127 per year.

Vented Tumble Dryers

Vented tumble dryers expel damp air through a hose that needs to be vented outside. They are usually the cheapest to buy but have higher running costs.

Pros:

• Lower upfront cost

Cons:

• High running costs
• Requires a vent hose

Running Costs: Around £139 per year.

Integrated Tumble Dryers

Integrated tumble dryers are built into kitchen cabinets and hidden behind a unit door, providing a seamless look.

Pros:

• Blends into kitchen design

Cons:

• Limited model availability
• Higher installation cost

Smart Tumble Dryers

Smart tumble dryers connect to an app, allowing you to monitor energy usage, choose programs, and track running times.

Pros:

• Track energy usage
• Control via smartphone

Cons:

• Typically more expensive

Gas Tumble Dryers

While gas tumble dryers are no longer manufactured in the UK, second-hand models are available. They require installation by a Gas Safe-registered engineer and regular servicing.

Running Costs and Energy Efficiency

Heat pump tumble dryers are the most energy-efficient, with annual running costs around £51. Condenser dryers cost around £127 per year, while vented dryers can cost up to £139 per year. Choosing an energy-efficient model can save hundreds over the appliance's lifetime.

Eco-Friendly Tumble Dryers

Eco-friendly tumble dryers, marked as Eco Buys, are among the most energy-efficient and perform well in drying clothes. All Eco Buys are heat pump dryers due to their low energy consumption.

Tumble Dryer Types and Prices

Key Features to Look For

Sensor Drying

Automatically detects moisture levels and stops the cycle when clothes are dry, saving energy and preventing over-drying.

Drum Size

Capacities range from 3kg to 11kg. Choose a size based on your laundry needs. Larger drums can be more energy-efficient per kilo of laundry.

Control Panels

Easy-to-use control panels with digital displays showing remaining program time and drying status.

Lint and Micro Filters

Ensure easy access to lint and micro filters, which need regular cleaning to maintain efficiency.

Water Container

For condenser dryers, check if the water container is easy to access and remove.

Installing and Maintaining Tumble Dryers

Installing a Vented Dryer

Consider professional installation or use a vent kit for DIY. Ensure the vent hose is short and free of kinks.

Maintaining Your Dryer

Regularly clean lint filters and micro filters. For heat pump dryers, clean the heat exchanger as well.

Conclusion

Choosing the right tumble dryer involves considering energy efficiency, drum size, and features. Heat pump dryers offer the best long-term savings, while vented and condenser dryers may have lower upfront costs but higher running expenses. Our expert reviews and Best Buy recommendations will help you find the perfect model for your home.

Visit our website to browse our full list of tumble dryer reviews and discover the best models for 2024.