If you’re buying a new domestic tumble dryer placed on the EU market since 1 July 2025, choose a heat pump model: the European Commission says this technology is required for these appliances. A condenser dryer also avoids the need for an external vent. Air-drying is still an option if you have enough space and ventilation, although ADEME says it adds a significant amount of moisture to indoor air.
If you don’t have a suitable opening or duct, rule out a vented tumble dryer. A condenser model can be installed without a connection to the outside; check the manual for the required location and how to manage the condensate. UFC-Que Choisir explains these installation requirements.
If you use a tumble dryer frequently, compare the stated energy consumption of the models you’re considering, as well as the duration of their eco programmes. UFC-Que Choisir notes that heat pump dryer cycles can take longer than those using conventional technologies.
Match the dryer’s capacity to your laundry loads and measure the available space, allowing for the clearances specified in the manual. If you plan to stack your appliances, Bosch recommends checking that both models and the stacking kit are compatible.
First decide whether you need an appliance or whether air-drying is suitable for your room. If you’re choosing a tumble dryer, then check the installation requirements, energy consumption and available space.
Consider this: if you want to finish drying your laundry with an appliance that doesn’t need an external vent, particularly when buying a new model.
Bear in mind: cycles can take longer than those using conventional technologies, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
Consider this: if you have enough space and suitable ventilation for hanging your laundry.
Keep in mind: ADEME describes air-drying as an activity that releases a significant amount of moisture into indoor air.
| Consideration | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Energy use and buying new | Heat pump technology, the current energy label and the model’s energy consumption per cycle. | If I regularly dry my laundry in a machine, I want to manage my electricity use while choosing a technology suitable for a new purchase; around 42% of consumers put this first. |
| Installation without an external vent | Appliance type and, if you want direct drainage, whether the manual permits a connection. | My room has no external vent, so being able to install the appliance there matters more than anything else. This is the priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Capacity and dimensions | Drum capacity, dimensions including clearances, and compatibility with any stacking kit. | When space is limited or laundry loads are large, I first need to find a capacity that fits the space available; around 25% of consumers prioritise this. |
According to UFC-Que Choisir, you need an opening to the outside or a suitable duct. The European Commission also states that, since 1 July 2025, only new domestic heat pump tumble dryers can be placed on the EU market.
If you’re considering a second-hand appliance or one placed on the market before that date, check its status and the installation requirements in its manual.
The European energy label for tumble dryers changed scale in July 2025, according to the European Commission and the regulation published on EUR-Lex. An old A++ or A+++ rating therefore cannot be read in the same way as a rating on the current A to G scale.
Compare models using the same scale, and also check their energy consumption figures and eco programme duration.
Direct condensate drainage depends on the model, as Whirlpool explains; the term ‘condenser’ alone doesn’t confirm that it’s possible.
Check the manual for the exact model and confirm the connection and any accessories required.
If you can’t use direct drainage, you’ll need to empty the condensate tank as instructed for the appliance.
An unsuitable kit or makeshift installation can affect stability. Bosch advises checking that the washing machine and tumble dryer models can be stacked.
Note down both model numbers, choose a compatible kit and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
The French range includes the WQG2450SFR heat pump tumble dryer.
Miele offers heat pump tumble dryers in a range of capacities, including the 8 kg T1 TEA525WP.
The range includes the GentleCare EW6HI5829SB heat pump tumble dryer, which Electrolux lists with an 8 kg capacity.
The French range includes the C WD 113M WBS FR heat pump tumble dryer, which Whirlpool lists with an 11 kg capacity.
These heat pump models are worth considering if you want to equip a home without an external vent. Before choosing, check the capacity, available space and installation instructions for each model.
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Worth considering for regular laundry loads if an advertised capacity of 8 kg suits your needs. The title lists heat pump technology and a C energy rating; the product information also mentions direct drainage. Check the dimensions, clearances and connection requirements in the manual.
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Consider this model if you’re looking for an advertised capacity of 8 kg and heat pump technology. The title lists a D energy rating, while the product information mentions adjustable drying levels. Check the dimensions and, if needed, the manual for details of direct drainage or stacking options.
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Worth considering for installation without an external vent, provided its capacity suits your laundry loads. The title lists heat pump technology and a D energy rating, but the product information gives the capacity as both 10 kg and 8 kg: confirm this before buying. Also check the dimensions and whether direct drainage or stacking is possible.
Yes. A condenser tumble dryer, particularly a heat pump model, doesn’t need an external vent, unlike a vented model, according to UFC-Que Choisir. However, check the dimensions, clearances and installation instructions for the model you choose.
For new domestic tumble dryers placed on the EU market since 1 July 2025, the European Commission says heat pump technology is required. If you’re considering a second-hand appliance or one placed on the market before that date, check its status and whether you have a suitable air outlet.
It depends on the model: Whirlpool recommends checking the manual to confirm whether a condenser tumble dryer can be connected to a water drain. Also check which accessories are needed and whether your room has a suitable connection.
Only if both models are approved for stacking and you have a compatible stacking kit. Bosch recommends checking that they’re compatible and following the installation instructions.
Yes. ADEME describes air-drying laundry as a significant source of indoor moisture and recommends using a large, well-ventilated room or one with suitable extraction. Before choosing this option, consider the room’s space and ventilation.