Households without room for a clothes airer
If your clothes airer takes up living space and there’s no vent to the outside, compare condenser tumble dryers by their energy use, programme times and how they collect water.
Who is this option for?
People with plenty of height but limited floor space
A stacked set-up can free up the space taken by one appliance on the floor. First check the model numbers of both machines and the kit, that the installation area is stable and that you can reach the tumble dryer when it’s raised.
Households considering the bathroom
Having enough room doesn’t automatically make it a suitable location. Check how close the appliance would be to the bath or shower, and have the bathroom’s electrical installation assessed before planning to put a tumble dryer there.
What should you check before buying?
First choose a type of tumble dryer that suits the room, then check separately whether it can be installed in a stacked set-up.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Air outlet | Check whether there’s a vent to the outside. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes vented models, which need one, from condenser models. | I don’t have an external air outlet and I’m looking for a condenser tumble dryer that will fit in the room. |
| Energy use and cycles | Compare the stated energy use and programme times of the models you’re considering. UFC-Que Choisir identifies heat pump technology as the least energy-hungry type of condenser dryer; this doesn’t determine how long any particular cycle takes. | If I use the tumble dryer often, I want to check its energy use without choosing a programme that takes too long for my routine. |
| Stacking | Check that both appliances are front-loading, compare their dimensions, confirm that their model numbers are compatible with the kit and check the limits in the manuals. Place the tumble dryer above the washing machine on a stable installation. | I have enough height but not enough floor space for two appliances side by side; I also need to be able to reach the controls and any water tank. |
| Condensed water | Check whether the water collects in a tank or whether it can drain directly with this model and its accessory. Bosch says its WTZ1110 kit enables direct drainage on compatible appliances. | In a stacked set-up, I’d rather not have to regularly remove a tank that’s too high for me to reach. |
| Bathroom | Check where the bath or shower is in relation to the planned location. Ask a qualified professional to assess the room’s electrical requirements and any changes to the circuit. | If the appliances are going in the bathroom, I want to confirm their location before ordering or installing a kit. |
What mistakes should you avoid?
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Choosing a stacking kit based only on the width of the appliances
Two front-loading machines of the same width won’t necessarily fit the same kit. Manufacturers also specify compatible depths and model numbers.
Note down the full model numbers and dimensions of both appliances, then check them against the manuals and the kit’s product details. The size ranges given by Electrolux and AEG each apply to a specific kit.
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Planning for a vented model without an external outlet
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a vented tumble dryer needs a route to the outside. So a small room without a suitable vent doesn’t meet this installation requirement.
Check whether a route to the outside is possible before choosing this type; otherwise, compare condenser models.
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Assuming condensed water can always drain away directly
Emptying a tank and using a direct drainage connection involve different tasks, especially when the tumble dryer is raised. A hose or kit won’t automatically fit every model.
Check the tumble dryer’s manual and the accessory’s compatibility, then make sure the route to the drain is practical.
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Choosing a bathroom location based only on available space
If the appliance is near a shower or bath, you’ll need to consider the location of the electrical equipment. Promotelec highlights the importance of safety zones in a bathroom.
Ask a qualified professional to check the location and electrical installation, particularly if a circuit needs to be installed or modified.
Brand guide
The features below apply to the models mentioned, not to every appliance from each brand.
Bosch
Models to consider if accessing the condensate tank could be awkward in a stacked set-up.
- Bosch states that the WTX87M09FF comes with a water drainage hose.
- By contrast, Bosch’s product details for the WTH83003FF say it doesn’t come with this hose. Check the model number and compatible accessories.
Electrolux
The kit documentation makes it possible to check whether a stacked set-up will work with the dimensions of the appliances in question.
- Electrolux offers a kit designed for front-loading appliances with a depth of 47 to 60 cm.
- Its E4YHMKP2 kit is designed for Electrolux appliances that are 60 cm wide and 54 to 60 cm deep. These size ranges aren’t interchangeable.
AEG
The A1WYHSK2 kit includes a sliding shelf, so consider how much space you’ll need in front of the stacked appliances.
- AEG says this kit is suitable for its front-loading washing machines and tumble dryers with a depth of 52 to 67 cm.
- This size range applies to the A1WYHSK2 kit. Check the model numbers and manuals for both appliances before stacking them.
Tumble dryers available on Joybuy
These condenser models suit a room without an external air vent. Their inclusion here doesn’t mean they’re suitable for a stacked set-up: that depends on the dimensions, the manuals and a kit compatible with both appliances.
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Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE, heat pump, 8 kg, class C
An option to consider if you need to dry laundry without an external vent. If you’re thinking of putting it on top of a washing machine, check the dimensions and make sure both model numbers are compatible with a kit before planning a stacked set-up.
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Comfee CD08EHP05W-HR, heat pump, 8 kg, class D
This heat pump model is worth comparing for a room without an external vent. Before planning to put it in a raised position, check its dimensions, how it handles condensed water and whether it’s compatible with the kit you’re considering.
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Electrolux EDH1018CD GentleCare, condenser, 8 kg
A condenser tumble dryer to consider for a room without an external air outlet. To compare its energy use and cycles with those of a heat pump model, confirm the exact technology in the product documentation. Check separately whether it can be stacked.
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Comfee CD10EHP05W-HR, heat pump, class D
This heat pump model fits the brief if you need a tumble dryer without an external vent. Confirm its capacity before buying: the information for this model gives both 8 kg and 10 kg. Also check its dimensions and the stacking requirements if you’re planning a stacked set-up.
Frequently asked questions
Does a condenser tumble dryer need an external air outlet?
No, unlike a vented model. However, follow the manual’s guidance on how much space to leave around the appliance. You’ll also need to empty the condensate tank or, if the model allows it, connect it to a drain.
Can condensed water drain directly into a waste pipe?
Yes, if the tumble dryer is compatible with the hose or kit you choose. Bosch says its WTZ1110 kit is suitable for compatible condenser tumble dryers, with or without a heat pump. Check your appliance’s model number and the route to the drain.
What should you check before stacking a washing machine and tumble dryer?
Check that both appliances are front-loading, that their dimensions and model numbers are compatible with the kit, and that their manuals allow the planned set-up. UFC-Que Choisir advises placing the tumble dryer above the washing machine. The stability of the floor and everyday access to the appliance matter too.
How should you choose a location for a tumble dryer in the bathroom?
Check the appliance’s position in relation to the bath or shower, as well as the electrical installation, before choosing the appliance or planning a stacked set-up. Promotelec points out that bathrooms have safety zones. If the location or circuit needs adapting, ask a qualified professional to approve the plan.
Does a heat pump model still need maintenance?
Yes. Follow the model’s manual for cleaning the filters and accessible parts at the recommended intervals. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of regularly cleaning the microfilter and condenser. Even if the appliance has a so-called self-cleaning condenser, check the care instructions for your specific model.