Tumble Dryers

What are the different types of tumble dryers?

Tumble dryers can vary quite a lot, but generally, there are around three different types; Condenser, Heat Pump, and Vented tumble dryers.

Condenser tumble dryers operate by taking the moisture from your clothes, and then disposing of it into a small reservoir at the bottom of the unit. It’s up to the user to then empty the reservoir by hand.

Heat pump tumble dryers operate similarly to condenser types. The key difference with these dryers is that they reuse the same hot air throughout the cycle, which is more economical.

Vented tumble dryers don’t need to be drained by hand. Instead, they use a vent to send the moisture out of your home!

Are tumble dryers expensive to run?

Not necessarily. Many modern tumble dryers are actually more energy efficient than they’ve ever been, so cost less to use. For instance, heat pump tumble dryers use half the amount of electricity by recycling air throughout each cycle.

Samsung smart dryers are particularly efficient, thanks to their use of OptimalDry technology, which adjusts the cycle time based on the amount of moisture withdrawn from your clothes. So you’ll only use what’s needed!

A good way to cut down on the energy consumption of your dryer is to ensure you fill it every time you use it. This ensures you’re not using excesses of energy.

What size tumble dryer is best for you?

Ultimately, the answer to this will depend on the number of items you need to wash. For instance, if you need to dry enough laundry for one or two people, then a model with a 6kg drum would be more than sufficient.

If instead you need to dry enough laundry for a family of four, then you’ll need a tumble dryer with a higher capacity, such as a 9kg model. Some of the largest tumble dryers have 13kg drums, with enough space to accommodate multiple duvets and bed sheets!

How long do tumble dryers last?

A good tumble dryer can easily last around 10 to 15 years of frequent use. However, for your tumble dryer to last, there are ways to extend its life!

Fill the drum: One of the best things you can do to keep your tumble dryer running is to ensure you fill the drum. When underfilled, the drum runs the risk of spinning off balance, which could cause damage. Equally, make sure not to overfill the drum and put a strain on it!

Clean the filter: It can be easy to forget to clean the lint filter of your dryer, but it’s crucial that you do! Excessive lint can make it difficult for the appliance to function.

Give it some breathing room: Naturally, tumble dryers generate quite a bit of heat. You should ensure there’s room for that heat to escape, lest the appliance overheat!