Homes without an external vent
You want to dry your laundry without installing a vent to the outside. A condenser model meets this requirement, but you still need to choose between cycle length and electricity use, as Que Choisir explains.
Who is this option for?
Anyone looking to free up floor space
You have, or are planning to buy, a front-loading washing machine and are considering stacking your appliances. This only saves space if the two models and their stacking kit are compatible.
Homes that dry laundry frequently
You want to prioritise electricity use when drying regularly. A heat-pump model is worth considering, bearing in mind that its cycles are generally longer and that it needs the maintenance specified by the manufacturer.
What should you look for?
Start by choosing a technology that works without an external vent. Then compare cycle times and energy use, and check separately whether your space allows for a freestanding or stacked installation.
| Criteria | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| No external vent | Check that the model is a condenser dryer, with or without a heat pump, then consult the manual for clearance requirements and access to the water tank. | Without an external vent, I want to dry laundry without installing ducting; around 40% of shoppers rank this as their top requirement. |
| Energy use and cycle time | Compare energy use and the duration of the reference programme for the models you are considering, as well as the recommended maintenance. Que Choisir says heat-pump models generally have longer cycles. | If I dry laundry often, I want to limit electricity use while knowing how long a cycle will take; around 30% of shoppers prioritise this trade-off. |
| Stacking | Confirm that both model numbers and the approved stacking kit are compatible, then check that the floor is stable and the controls will be accessible. | In a small laundry room, I want to free up floor space without creating an unstable stack; around 30% of shoppers prioritise this need for space and safety. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Assuming “no external vent” means “no installation requirements”
A condenser tumble dryer does not need to be connected to an external vent, but its location must still meet the instructions in the manual, particularly for ventilation and access to the water tank.
Rule out vented models and check the manual for the exact model before deciding where to put it.
-
Stacking two appliances just because they are a similar width
Similar dimensions do not guarantee that the appliances are mechanically compatible. Bosch and Electrolux set specific requirements for their appliances and kits; an unsuitable installation could cause the appliances to shift or fall.
Check the model numbers of both appliances and only use a configuration and kit approved by the manufacturer. The tumble dryer goes on top of the washing machine.
Check whether the appropriate stacking kit needs to be purchased separately.
-
Choosing a heat-pump model based only on energy use
According to Que Choisir, lower energy use generally comes with longer cycles. Depending on the model, cleaning the filters and condenser is also part of day-to-day use.
Compare energy use and the duration of the reference programme, then make sure you can access the parts that need maintaining.
-
Choosing a bathroom location without having it checked first
The NF C 15-100-7-701 standard, published by AFNOR Éditions, covers electrical installations in rooms containing a bath or shower. Whether you can install the appliance depends on the actual location and electrical installation.
Before buying and installing the appliance, have a qualified professional check the location and circuit in accordance with the applicable regulations.
Brands to consider for your setup
Bosch
Worth considering if you plan to stack Bosch appliances using a kit that matches their model numbers.
- Bosch lists the WTZ11400/00574010 kit for certain condenser and heat-pump tumble dryers, with a pull-out shelf rated for a maximum load of 16 kg.
- Some Series 2 washing machine models are excluded: check compatibility using the E-Nr, rather than assuming that any two Bosch appliances can be stacked.
Electrolux
Worth considering if you are looking at a stacking kit for front-loading appliances, subject to checking the exact model numbers.
- Electrolux lists the STA8GW4 kit for front-loading washing machines and tumble dryers with a depth of 47 to 60 cm. It includes a safety strap and wall fixing.
- This depth range alone does not confirm that two appliances are compatible: Electrolux requires a compatibility check using the 11-digit PNC.
Miele
Worth considering if you are looking at a Miele heat-pump tumble dryer that can be installed under a worktop or stacked using the appropriate accessory.
- Miele says that some heat-pump tumble dryers in its range can be installed under a worktop or stacked, using a stacking kit where required.
- Accessories vary by series: the WTV 512 stacking kit, for example, is not compatible with WTZH/WTW washing machines.
Joybuy products for drying without an external vent
These condenser and heat-pump models, along with this condenser washer-dryer, are options if you want to dry laundry without an external vent. If you are planning a stack, check separately that the models you are considering are approved for stacking.
Image unavailable
Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE, 8 kg heat-pump tumble dryer
Worth considering if you want to dry laundry without an external vent and prioritise electricity use. Stated capacity: 8 kg; stated energy rating: C. Check the model manual for dimensions, clearance requirements and whether it can be stacked.
Image unavailable
Comfee CD08EHP05W-HR, 8 kg heat-pump tumble dryer
An option to consider if you want to dry laundry without an external vent and energy use is an important factor in your choice. Stated capacity: 8 kg; stated energy rating: D. Check the manual for clearance requirements and stacking compatibility before planning a stack.
Image unavailable
Samsung WD11DG6B85BEU3, 11/6 kg washer-dryer
Worth considering if you would rather combine washing and condenser drying in one appliance than stack two machines. Stated capacities: 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying; this is not a separate tumble dryer. Check the clearance requirements for its location.
Image unavailable
Electrolux EDH1018CD GentleCare, 8 kg condenser tumble dryer
Worth considering if you want a separate appliance for drying laundry without an external vent. Stated capacity: 8 kg. If you plan to stack it, check that the EDH1018CD, your washing machine and the specific kit are compatible, rather than relying on dimensions alone.
Image unavailable
Comfee CD10EHP05W-HR, heat-pump tumble dryer
Worth considering if you are looking for a tumble dryer without an external vent and want to compare heat-pump models. The capacity listed for this model varies between 8 and 10 kg: confirm the capacity of the appliance being sold before choosing your laundry load. Also check the installation and stacking requirements in the manual.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install a tumble dryer without an opening to the outside?
Yes. A condenser tumble dryer, including a heat-pump model, works without an external vent, as Que Choisir explains. You must still follow the installation instructions for your chosen model; a vented tumble dryer is not suitable for this requirement.
Should you choose a heat-pump model for a small laundry room?
A heat-pump model is worth prioritising if electricity use is your main concern, but not simply because the room is small. According to Que Choisir, its cycles are generally longer than those of standard condenser models. Also check the dimensions, clearance requirements and access to parts that need maintenance.
Can you stack any tumble dryer on any washing machine?
No. Stacking requires compatible front-loading appliances, a kit approved for their model numbers and a stable installation. Que Choisir recommends checking dimensions and weight limits in particular. The tumble dryer goes on top of the washing machine, never the other way round.