If you can finish drying your washing on an indoor airer, start by checking your washing machine’s spin efficiency rating. ADEME recommends choosing a machine with an A spin efficiency rating when you need washing to dry quickly indoors. If you need a mechanical drying option, a condenser tumble dryer doesn’t need an external vent. Among these dryers, it’s worth considering a heat pump model if electricity consumption is a particular concern, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. In all cases, check the capacity, available space, water management and maintenance requirements of the model you choose.
If your washing can finish drying on an indoor airer, start by checking your washing machine’s spin efficiency rating and capacity. ADEME highlights the benefits of spinning washing before drying it indoors, particularly when you need it to dry quickly. You’ll still need an airer, though.
If you need a tumble dryer but can’t install an external vent, compare conventional condenser dryers with heat pump models. Whirlpool explains that whether you can connect the condensed water to a drain depends on the model.
If you regularly dry loads mechanically, compare capacity, stated energy consumption and programme duration. UFC-Que Choisir notes that heat pump models use less electricity than conventional condenser tumble dryers. You should also factor in the maintenance set out in the manual.
Worth considering: if you can carry on drying your washing on an airer without adding another appliance.
Bear in mind: spinning won’t finish the drying process, and you’ll need to choose a programme that’s suitable for the fabrics.
Worth considering: if you want to dry your washing mechanically without an external vent.
Bear in mind: according to UFC-Que Choisir, this technology uses more electricity than a heat pump model. Water management depends on the model.
Worth considering: if you use a tumble dryer regularly and electricity consumption is an important factor in your decision.
Bear in mind: compare programme durations and make sure you clean the filters as instructed, even if the model has an automatic cleaning function.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Spin cycle and airer | Compare the washing machine’s spin efficiency rating and capacity against the size of your loads. ADEME recommends choosing an A-rated model if you need your washing to dry quickly indoors. | I can keep using my airer, but I’d like my washing to spend less time on it without installing a second appliance. Around 30% of consumers would make this a priority. |
| Installation without an external vent | Check that the model is a condenser dryer, then consult its manual for information on positioning and managing the collected water. | I want to dry my washing mechanically, but my home has no external vent. This would be a priority for around 30% of consumers. |
| Energy consumption with frequent use | For the models you’re considering, compare the energy information, capacity and duration of the relevant programme. Also check what maintenance is required. | I regularly use a tumble dryer for my washing, so I want to factor in electricity consumption without choosing a capacity that doesn’t suit my needs. Around 40% of consumers would prioritise this. |
A condenser tumble dryer collects the water removed from your washing. Whirlpool says that connecting it to a drain depends on the model; otherwise, you’ll need to empty the tank as instructed in the manual.
Before buying, check the exact model to see how its tank works, whether it can be connected to a drain and which accessories you’ll need.
Energy consumption matters, but the capacity and programme duration should also suit how often you need to dry your washing.
Compare these details across the models you’re considering rather than assuming that the technology alone makes one right for you.
Bosch says that clogged filters can affect the efficiency of a heat pump model. An automatic cleaning function, available on some models, doesn’t replace the instructions in the manual.
Check the regular maintenance required for the exact model and choose an appliance you’ll be able to look after.
Stacking requires a stable installation that’s compatible with both appliances and complies with their manuals. You can’t assume they’ll be suitable just because of their dimensions.
Check which stacking kit you need and read the instructions from both manufacturers before planning a stacked installation.
You may need a compatible stacking kit.
The Bosch WQG2450SFR is a 9 kg heat pump model you can compare for its capacity, water management and maintenance requirements.
Whirlpool describes the FFT CM11 8XB FR as a freestanding 8 kg condenser tumble dryer.
Electrolux manuals can help you check the installation and maintenance instructions for the model you’re considering.
These models reflect the three options covered here: adding a condenser tumble dryer, considering a heat pump model, or sticking with a washing machine spin cycle and indoor drying. Compare each appliance against the space you have and the loads you need to dry.
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Worth considering if you want to dry loads mechanically and an 8 kg capacity suits your needs. The product title lists a C rating; compare the model’s energy information and check its dimensions and the requirements for any connection to a drain.
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Worth considering if you need to dry your washing mechanically without an external vent and an 8 kg capacity suits your needs. The product title mentions OptiSense and propane refrigerant. Check the EDH1018CD manual for safety and installation guidance, as well as instructions on managing condensed water.
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Worth comparing if you plan to keep using an indoor airer instead of adding a tumble dryer. The product title lists an 8 kg capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1,400 rpm. Check the spin efficiency rating separately and choose a programme that’s suitable for your fabrics.
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Worth comparing if you want to spin your washing before drying it indoors. The stated capacity is 8 kg and the maximum spin speed is 1,400 rpm. Check the spin efficiency rating, dimensions and required connections before deciding where to put it.
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Worth considering if your usual loads call for an 11 kg capacity before you dry your washing indoors. Check the spin efficiency rating separately from the energy rating, then measure the space you have and check the required connections.
Yes. You can consider a condenser tumble dryer, including a heat pump model, if you don’t have an external vent. Whirlpool explains that the water removed from your washing is collected. However, follow the manual for your exact model when it comes to positioning, connections and ventilation.
Only if the model and your installation allow you to connect the condensed water to a drain. Whirlpool says this depends on the model, so check the manual for details of the required hose and connection.
Yes, but only if both appliances and their installation allow it, using a compatible stacking kit. UFC-Que Choisir discusses stacking front-loading appliances with a kit. Check both manuals and make sure the chosen location is stable.
No. This feature doesn’t mean that all cleaning is unnecessary. Bosch stresses the importance of clean filters for heat pump tumble dryers. Follow the maintenance instructions and schedule in the manual for the model you choose.
Yes, check the safety instructions for the model you’re considering. The Electrolux EW8H4823RE manual specifies propane R290 and says to keep sources of ignition away and avoid damaging the refrigerant circuit. This guidance applies to this model and doesn’t describe all tumble dryers.