If you don’t have an external vent for a duct, start by comparing condenser tumble dryers. If you dry laundry frequently and want to keep electricity use down, consider heat pump models, bearing in mind that their cycles are generally longer. Then check the capacity, available space, installation requirements and water drainage for each appliance.
If there’s no way to connect a duct to the outside, a condenser tumble dryer is an alternative to drying laundry indoors on an airer. UFC-Que Choisir notes that a vented model needs an external opening or access to an air duct.
If you use the appliance regularly, it’s worth comparing electricity use and maintenance alongside cycle times. A heat pump model may suit you if you’re happy with generally longer cycles.
If space is tight, the room temperature varies or you dry delicate fabrics, check each model’s manual against your room and laundry. If you’re stacking appliances, also make sure the proposed stacking kit is compatible.
Start by checking which types of appliance can be installed in your home. Then compare the models based on how often you’ll use them and how much laundry you need to dry.
Worth considering: if you dry laundry regularly, can’t connect an external vent and want to keep electricity use down.
Bear in mind: cycles are generally longer, and you’ll need to follow the maintenance instructions in the manual, even if some tasks are automated.
Worth considering: if you don’t have an external vent and cycle time is a higher priority for you.
Bear in mind: electricity use is generally higher than with a heat pump model. Check how the water is collected or drained.
Worth considering: only if you have a suitable external opening or air duct.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to connect the vent, and electricity use is generally higher than with the other options covered, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
| What to consider | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation and water | Check whether the appliance can be installed without an external duct, then see if it has a tank or can be connected to a drain. | I don’t have an external vent and want to free up the space taken by an indoor airer; around 42% of consumers rank this installation option as their top priority. |
| Electricity and maintenance | Compare the energy-use figures for each model and check what cleaning is required for the filters and condenser. | When I have several loads to dry, I’d rather keep an eye on electricity use, even if drying takes longer; this is the top priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Load and cycles | Compare the capacity with the amount of laundry you need to dry, then check the load limits and cycle times for the programmes you’re interested in. | I need the capacity and programmes to keep up with my household’s laundry without relying on just one cycle; load capacity and programmes come first for around 25% of consumers. |
This type of tumble dryer needs an opening to the outside or access to an air duct, notes UFC-Que Choisir. So it won’t, by itself, solve the problem of a home without a usable outlet.
Make sure there’s a suitable connection before choosing this type of dryer. If not, compare condenser models instead.
Creating or adapting an opening for the duct may also mean having work done in the room.
A generally shorter cycle doesn’t necessarily use less electricity. The trade-offs between standard condenser, heat pump and vented models are especially important if you use the appliance often.
Compare the energy label and energy-use figures for models that meet your installation requirements.
UFC-Que Choisir says that some systems still need periodic cleaning. On some of the appliances it examined, a build-up of dirt led to longer cycles and higher energy use.
Before choosing a model, read the manual to find out what maintenance is required, particularly for the filters and condenser.
The stated load capacity doesn’t tell you whether the appliance will fit in the room, have the required clearance or suit the room temperature.
Measure the space, compare the capacity with your laundry and check the manual. If you’re stacking appliances, make sure the dedicated kit is compatible.
These brand examples can help you identify features to compare. Equipment and installation requirements vary from one model to another.
Worth a look if dimensions, noise and maintenance are key considerations for your space.
Worth considering if fabric programmes and room temperature will influence your choice.
A brand to explore if capacity and fabric care features are high on your list.
Worth comparing if you’re looking for a heat pump model with a capacity to suit your laundry loads.
These two condenser dryers are worth considering if you can’t connect a duct to the outside. The Hotpoint is described as a heat pump model. To decide which one best suits your needs, check the Electrolux’s exact technology, as well as the energy-use figures and cycle times for each model.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a heat pump dryer that doesn’t need an external duct and can handle loads of up to its stated 8 kg capacity.
The product name indicates an energy rating of C. Compare energy use and programme times, then check the dimensions and installation requirements in the manual for this model.
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Worth considering if you want to dry a load of laundry without connecting an air duct to the outside, subject to checking the installation requirements for this model.
The product name mentions OptiSense. If energy use is a deciding factor, confirm the exact drying technology, energy figures and programme times before comparing this appliance with a heat pump model.
Start by looking at condenser models, which don’t need a duct to the outside. If you dry laundry frequently, compare heat pump models in particular, then check the capacity, space requirements and water drainage for each model.
No. The dimensions, clearances and operating temperature all need to be suitable for the room. For example, Electrolux gives an operating range of 5 °C to 35 °C for the EW7HI7495DS. Check the manual for the model you want to install rather than assuming this range applies to every appliance.
Not if the model allows water to drain directly and a compatible connection is installed. Electrolux offers a drain kit for some condenser dryers. Check that it’s compatible with your appliance’s product number before planning the connection.
Follow the model-specific instructions for cleaning the filters and condenser: “self-cleaning” doesn’t necessarily mean maintenance-free. UFC-Que Choisir found that neglecting maintenance could lengthen cycles and increase energy use on some appliances.
Check the requirements in the manual, and have a qualified professional assess any new or modified circuit. French regulations for electrical installations include requirements for certain dedicated circuits, but your home’s wiring needs to be assessed on site.