Without usable external venting, choose a condenser tumble dryer, including a heat-pump model, rather than a vented appliance. If you do laundry frequently, compare the consumption shown on the energy label and programme durations. You should also check the dimensions, operating temperature and installation instructions for the model you choose.
Condenser tumble dryers, including heat-pump models, can be installed without a connection to the outside, unlike vented models. Que Choisir points out that this difference is crucial when external ducting is not possible.
Compare the stated consumption and programme durations before choosing. Que Choisir assesses both criteria in particular, based on the kilogram of laundry dried.
Measure the installation space, delivery route and door opening. Also check the floor is stable, that you can access the filter and water container, and the stacking rules specified for the model.
Worth considering : if you dry laundry regularly and want a solution without external ducting.
Check : the stated consumption, cycle durations and the installation requirements specific to the model.
Worth considering : if you need an installation without external venting and cycle speed is important for your routine.
Allow for : cleaning the filter, water container and, depending on the appliance, the condenser.
Keep in mind : this option is suitable for occasional use or when no space that meets the instructions is available.
Be prepared for : the space required and drying times that depend on the room, ambient air and type of laundry.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Suitability without external venting | Choose a condenser or heat-pump model. Check the water container and whether a connection to the waste-water outlet is possible, if the model supports it. | I want to dry laundry without drilling through a wall or installing ducting to the outside. |
| Consumption and cycles | Compare kWh/100 cycles on the energy label. Also check the duration of programmes that match your usual loads. | I want to avoid frequent laundry making the appliance difficult to manage day to day. |
| Capacity and laundry routine | Match the capacity in kg to that of your washing machine. Only look for small-load programmes if they are clearly listed on the model’s product page. | My laundry sometimes includes bedding and sometimes small loads : the cycle needs to suit this routine. |
| Installation and maintenance | Measure the height, width, depth and door opening. Consult the instructions for clearances, stacking, the filter and the condenser. | I need to be able to install the appliance securely and access the parts that require maintenance easily. |
These appliances require an opening to the outside or ventilation ducting. They are therefore unsuitable for a home where this option is not available.
Rule out this solution once the lack of usable external venting has been confirmed, and focus your comparison on traditional condenser and heat-pump models.
Consumption, programme durations, noise level, dimensions and maintenance also affect everyday use. Que Choisir compares programme duration and consumption per kilogram of dried laundry in particular.
Check the energy label, exact dimensions, noise level and the programmes that are useful for your usual loads.
A clogged condenser can increase consumption and damage the appliance. A self-cleaning condenser does not eliminate the maintenance tasks specified in the instructions.
Before buying, check where the filter and water container are located, what maintenance is required and how easy these parts are to access once the appliance is installed.
Dimensions, operating temperature, direct water connection and stacking rules vary between models. The 5 to 35 °C ranges specified by some AEG and Electrolux models do not automatically apply to every appliance.
Measure the space and consult the installation instructions for the exact model. For a stacked installation, use only the kit authorised by the manufacturer.
Bosch offers heat-pump tumble dryers, including 8 kg models with features that vary between models.
Whirlpool offers traditional condenser and heat-pump tumble dryers for homes without external venting.
AEG offers heat-pump and condenser tumble dryers, with capacities of 8 or 9 kg depending on the model.
Electrolux sells heat-pump tumble dryers with textile programmes and sensors that vary between models.
LG offers heat-pump and condenser tumble dryers with humidity sensors on some models.
Joybuy options for condenser and heat-pump tumble dryers for a flat without usable external ducting.
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For a flat without external ducting, this 8 kg heat-pump tumble dryer provides a condenser-based solution.
The product page lists programmes for several fabrics, an accessible 2-in-1 filter, a delay-start function and the option of a direct water connection.
The stated noise level is 64 dB. Before installation, check the instructions for the dimensions, clearances, operating temperature and stacking requirements.
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This 8 kg condenser tumble dryer is suitable when the installation does not allow the appliance to be connected to the outside.
The product page mentions OptiSense humidity sensors, a reversible door, a water container and dimensions of 60 × 65 × 85 cm.
Allow for the depth required with the door open, delivery access and clearance around the appliance. Consult the instructions for maintenance and any stacked installation.
Yes, provided you choose a condenser model, including a heat-pump model, and follow the installation instructions. A vented tumble dryer, on the other hand, requires an opening to the outside or ventilation ducting.
It is worth prioritising if you want a solution without external ducting and use the tumble dryer frequently. However, check the stated consumption, programme durations and the model’s installation requirements, as these vary between models.
Use only the connection kit authorised by the tumble dryer manufacturer and check that the appliances are compatible. The Bosch WQG24502FR instructions state that other installation methods are not permitted.
Compare the standardised information on the energy label and product information sheet, particularly the stated consumption. Household drum tumble dryers sold in France are covered by the relevant European delegated regulation on energy labelling.
Yes, depending on the appliance configuration. If the condenser tumble dryer is not connected to a waste-water outlet, its water container must be managed in accordance with the instructions ; AEG also states that a blocked condenser can increase consumption and damage the appliance.