Households that dry clothes often
If you regularly put on several loads of washing, compare the models’ electricity use and check that their programme times suit you.
Who is this choice for?
Flats where space and noise matter
Before choosing an appliance, check its dimensions and noise level against your room. Also check how you’ll collect the condensed water.
Households that prefer shorter cycles
If you need clothes to dry quickly between uses, compare programme times for similar loads, while keeping an eye on energy use.
What should you look at first?
Heat-pump condenser dryer
Consider this if: you dry clothes often and prefer generally lower electricity use, according to Que Choisir.
Bear in mind: cycles are generally longer than those of a conventional condenser dryer; compare the timings of the specific models you’re considering.
Conventional condenser dryer
Consider this if: drying time matters more to you: Que Choisir reports that these appliances are generally quicker.
Bear in mind: electricity use is generally higher than with a heat-pump model.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity use | Compare the weighted energy use per cycle and the duration of the same programme on the product information for the models you’re considering. | I dry clothes often and want to limit the electricity used per cycle; around 33% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Space, noise and condensed water | Check the dimensions, including the required clearances, the stated noise level, and whether there’s a water tank or a drainage connection. | In my flat, the appliance needs to fit without becoming a nuisance nearby, and I need to be able to deal with the collected water; for around 25% of consumers, these considerations come first. |
| Capacity and maintenance | Match the capacity to your usual loads, then check the programmes and the cleaning instructions for the filter and condenser. | I want to dry my usual loads using suitable programmes, while keeping up with the required maintenance; this is a priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Cycle times | Compare the full-load and half-load times for the same programme; check which fabrics and load sizes are suitable for a quick cycle. | I have little time between loads of washing and can’t rely on the name of a quick programme alone; around 17% of consumers prioritise drying time above all else. |
What mistakes should you avoid?
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Confusing the water hose with an air-exhaust duct
A condenser dryer may have a hose to drain the collected water, but it doesn’t need an air outlet to the outside.
Check the manual separately for information on the water tank, any condensate drainage connection and installation requirements.
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Choosing based on the energy rating alone
Lower energy use doesn’t mean a shorter cycle. According to Que Choisir, conventional condenser dryers are generally quicker than heat-pump models.
Compare energy use and the duration of the same programme at full and half load. A quick cycle may be limited to certain fabrics or a small load.
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Relying on capacity without measuring the space
The stated capacity in kilograms tells you nothing about the appliance’s depth or noise level. For example, Bosch lists its 9 kg WQG2450SFR as 613 mm deep and 64 dB(A).
Measure the available space and check it against the dimensions and clearances required in the manual for the model you choose.
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Assuming the condenser needs no maintenance
Cleaning requirements vary by appliance; a self-cleaning condenser doesn’t mean you can ignore the manufacturer’s other instructions.
Read the instructions for the filter and condenser before choosing a model you’ll be able to maintain regularly.
Brands to consider
Bosch
The range includes heat-pump dryers, such as the 9 kg WQG2450SFR. This model gives you a practical way to assess the space it takes up, its noise level and how it handles condensed water.
- For the WQG2450SFR, Bosch lists dimensions of 842 × 598 × 613 mm, a noise level of 64 dB(A) and a water drainage hose.
- Bosch also describes this model as having a self-cleaning condenser; make sure you still follow all the maintenance instructions in its manual.
Electrolux
The range includes both condenser and heat-pump models. Check the installation requirements and features of each appliance individually.
- Electrolux lists an 8 kg capacity and an operating temperature range of 5 °C to 35 °C for the EW9HI783FC.
- This temperature range applies to the EW9HI783FC; don’t assume it applies to another model without checking its documentation.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool offers heat-pump tumble dryers and points out that this technology is a type of condenser drying.
- Whirlpool lists an 8 kg capacity for the FFTNM228X3BFR.
- This model’s capacity and features don’t represent the whole range; check the exact model number before comparing.
Tumble dryers available on Joybuy
These two models show what to look for if you don’t have an external air-exhaust duct: a condenser dryer and a heat-pump model. Always check the manual to make sure the appliance will fit in your flat and that you can manage the condensed water.
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Electrolux EDH1018CD GentleCare condenser dryer, 8 kg
Worth considering if you’re looking for a condenser dryer that doesn’t need an external air duct.
Stated capacity: 8 kg. The product name mentions propane refrigerant and OptiSense.
Before choosing where to put it, check the dimensions, required clearances and water collection arrangements in the manual. Also compare the duration and energy use of the programmes you’re interested in.
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Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE heat-pump dryer, 8 kg
Worth considering if you dry clothes regularly and want to compare the energy use of a heat-pump model.
Stated capacity: 8 kg.
Check the dimensions and required clearances before deciding where to put it. Compare programme times, energy use and water drainage arrangements in the model’s documentation.
Frequently asked questions
Does a heat-pump tumble dryer need an external vent?
No. A heat-pump tumble dryer is also a condenser dryer. As Que Choisir and Whirlpool explain, it works without an external air-exhaust duct. However, the manual will specify the installation requirements and how to handle the condensed water.
How do I compare the energy use and drying time of two models?
Compare figures for the same programme and equivalent loads in the product information for the specific models. The European product fiche available via EPREL can show weighted energy use per cycle and programme times at rated capacity and half load. Actual energy use depends on how the appliance is used.
Do you have to empty the water tank after every drying cycle?
How the water is collected depends on the model: some appliances have a tank, and some also have a condensate drainage hose. Check the manual for your chosen model to find out how to manage the water and how often to empty the tank if you use it.