Tumble dryers Buying Guide
Make picking out that new tumble dryer a whole lot easier with our buying guide. We’ll explain the difference between heat pump and condenser models, and much more.
There’s a lot to think about when choosing a tumble dryer, from size and capacity to energy-efficiency ratings and smart drying tech. That’s why we’ve created this handy buying guide for you. It’s packed with all the info you need to help you make the right choice for your home, family and lifestyle. Let’s get started!
Tumble Dryers
Vented
A vented tumble dryers work by extracting the damp air that is produced during the drying process, and then discharge it through a 2m plastic hose which prevents condensation. The hose will require a window or door to dispose of the damp air.
Condenser
A condenser tumble dryer works similarly to a vented tumble dryer, however it collects the damp air in the form of water which then needs to be manually emptied after drying. Some machines can dispose of the water automatically, if they are plumbed. It can be installed in any room with good ventilation.
Heat Pump
A heat pump tumble dryer performs quieter and more efficiently than a vented or condenser tumble dryer due to it using a lower drying temperature. It also recirculates the warm air instead of discarding it to lower amount of energy used.
Energy Rating
Need a tumble dryer that’s kind to the planet and your bills? You won’t have to look any further than the handy energy rating. With a range of A to G, you can easily compare how energy efficient each appliance is – those ranked C and above are the best in the biz. So now you can keep your clothes and your wallet happy.
Warranty
Tumble dryers are built to last, but sometimes things can go wrong. That’s why the warranty is so important, it keeps you safe from any nasty surprises. The standard length is usually 1 or 2 years, but some manufacturers offer extensions and could even cover the motor itself for 10 years. Look out for the warranty section on our product pages to know exactly what you’re entitled to.
Noise Levels
If laundry day is creating too much of a background buzz, then you need a tumble dryer with a lower noise level. Each appliance is measured in decibels so you know how loud it will be at key stages of the cycle. 50dB is around the volume of a typical conversation and would be ideal for open plan living. However, if you have a utility room, then a higher level won’t disturb your day.
Dry Load
Choosing the right drum size for your dry load is important. If it’s too big you’re wasting energy by not filling it, but going too small means you need more cycles. Typically, an 8 to 9kg capacity is considered large and would handle the drying for homes of 3 or 4 people.
Fit Type
Whether you want the tumble dryer to fit seamlessly in your kitchen or you’re popping it in a utility space, there’re plenty of options. An integrated tumble dryer sits within your kitchen cabinet and is hidden away behind a door. Meanwhile, a freestanding model sits out in the open, it can go under a counter, but won’t have a door attached to it.
Dimensions
So, you’ve found a tumble dryer you like and you’re ready to commit, but are you sure it’ll fit? You don’t want to receive your fancy new appliance to find it won’t squeeze through your doorways or into the gap. We want to make your delivery day happen without a hitch, so we’ve prepared a handy measuring guide to give you all the info you need.
Sensor Controlled Drying
Speed up drying your fave shirt without worrying about shrinking it. Sensor-drying measures the amount of moisture in your clothes and adjusts the settings to match. This prevents overheating and keeps fabrics in tip-top shape for longer. What’s not to love?
Fabric care
We’d all like our clothes to last longer, and buying a tumble dryer with fabric care features can help. Generally, these special programmes leave your clothes dry while protecting them from heat damage. So, whether it’s a woolly jumper or silk shirt, you can pop them in knowing they’ll be safe from shrinking.
Allergy Care
Whether itchy skin or summer sneezing fits are getting the better of you, a tumble dryer with allergy care can help. These machines are kitted out with clever tech that removes allergens, like dust, dander and pollen, from your clothes. Ready to breathe easy all year round? Silly question – let’s get started.
Smart-Connected
Ever left work wishing your laundry was already done? With a smart-connected tumble dryer you can start the cycle remotely and come home to freshly-dried clothes. But that’s not all, some models have a whole bunch of smart features, including progress notifications, new drying settings, and diagnostic reports all available from your phone.
Machine Clean
If your dryer is starting to smell like an unwashed gym kit, you need a model with machine clean tech. This nifty feature keeps the tumble dryer free from bacteria and dirt that causes unwanted smells. So, take that clothes peg off your nose, grab a brew and have a browse – we’re sure to have what you need.
Super quiet
There’s nothing worse than getting comfy on the couch, only to have your TV drowned out by the laundry. Thankfully, many brands have kitted out their tumble dryers with some pretty neat tech that keeps things extra quiet. So, next time you go to hit play on that boxset, you won’t have any background buzz distracting you.
Quick Dry
Sometimes life is just too busy to hang around waiting for the laundry, so make sure you've got a dryer with a quick dry option that'll let you get on with your day. These programmes can vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on the model. And some even let you choose the length of the cycle. Now, getting those clothes wardrobe-ready couldn’t be easier.
Prevents creases
Ironing is one of those chores we put off for as long as possible. Luckily there are tumble dryers with anti-crease settings to make life easier. They gently tumble your clothes once the drying programme has ended, usually in cool air. Some also use steam to reduce wrinkles. Either way, you’ll get to put the iron down and your feet up before you know it.
Reverse Tumbling
Tangled clothes got your head in a spin? With a reverse tumble you won’t be stuck separating your jeans from your jumpers. It’s all thanks to clever tech which allows the drum to change direction mid-cycle, ensuring your clothes don’t end up in a heap.
Energy Efficient
Running costs top of the priority list? Or maybe you just want to do your bit for the planet? Well, with an energy-efficient tumble dryer, you can tick both those boxes. They use less energy making them kinder to your bank balance and the environment. So next time you pop a load on, you can do it with a conscience that’s as clean as your clothes.
Makes Ironing Easier
Ironing sure can be a chore! Luckily Tumble Dryers can efficiently and significantly reduce wrinkles and creases meaning items require less time and effort to be ironed. Additionally, some tumble dryers offer special features like steam or wrinkle-reducing cycles, which prevent wrinkles and reduce creases even further.
Noise Level
The Noise level is measured in decibels. Below 75 dB is considered a quiet tumble dryer. Any noise level about 75 dB is considered to be a louder tumble dryer. To compare, 40dB equates to the noise in a public library, whereas 80dB equates to the noise of a ringing phone.
Warranty
Tumble dryer warranties vary, but commonly last between 1 to 2 years, but some models will come with an extended warranty, and a some also offer up to 10 years’ cover on the appliances motor. During the warranty period, the manufacturer will replace or repair your machine for free, giving you some extra peace of mind.
Installation & Recyle
To make things easier for you we offer a connection service for our Tumble Dryers. Plus, we also offer a Remove & recycle service, where we remove your old appliance and take it away to be recycled. Saving you the hassle of getting rid of, and moving, your old appliance yourself.
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