Homes without an outside vent
If there’s no opening or duct for a vented tumble dryer, you can look at condenser models, with or without a heat pump. UFC-Que Choisir explains that they don’t need to be connected to the outside.
Who are these solutions for?
Homes with room for just one appliance
A washer-dryer takes up the space of a single appliance. Be sure to check its drying capacity, though: UFC-Que Choisir highlights that it’s lower than its maximum washing capacity.
Homes where appliances can be stacked
If you have enough vertical space, you can stack two separate appliances. This depends on the exact models of the washing machine and tumble dryer, as well as the stacking kit. Miele, for example, limits compatibility of its WTV 511 to certain series.
What should you check before choosing?
Start by checking the space available, then compare the actual drying capacity and the figures for the cycle you’ll use.
| Criterion | What to check | My needs |
|---|---|---|
| Air outlet | Check that the appliance uses condenser drying rather than vented drying. Consult the manual for installation and connection requirements. | I don’t have an outside opening or a usable duct. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a condenser tumble dryer doesn’t need to be connected to the outside. |
| Space available | Measure the space and check the clearances required in the manual. For a stacked setup, check that all three models are compatible: the washing machine, tumble dryer and kit. | If I only have space for one appliance on the floor, a washer-dryer is worth considering. If I have enough vertical space, I can consider stacking two appliances with a compatible kit. |
| Drying capacity | For a washer-dryer, compare the washing and drying capacities in kg separately. For a separate tumble dryer, check the stated capacity for the specific model. | I want to run a wash and drying cycle without taking any laundry out. In that case, my load must stay within the drying capacity, which UFC-Que Choisir says is lower than the washing capacity. |
| Cycles and energy use | Compare cycle times and electricity figures for similar programmes and loads. For a washer-dryer, also check the water consumption for the cycle in question. | Long cycles would make it harder to plan my day, so I want to know how long the complete programme takes, not just the wash. In its washer-dryer tests, UFC-Que Choisir records cycle duration, water and electricity use separately. |
What mistakes should you avoid?
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Going by washing capacity alone
A washer-dryer may not be able to dry the entire load it has just washed. UFC-Que Choisir notes that its drying capacity is lower.
Compare the two capacities in kg. If you want to run a wash-and-dry cycle without intervention, keep the load within the drying capacity.
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Assuming all ventless appliances perform the same way
Whether it needs an outside connection is only one factor. You should also consider the drying method, cycle time and energy use for the model and programme you’re looking at.
Compare the energy label and figures for equivalent cycles rather than judging by the words ‘no vent required’ alone.
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Stacking two appliances just because they’re a similar size
Similar widths don’t prove that a stacking kit is compatible. Miele, for example, specifies that its WTV 511 is for certain series and excludes some washing machine models.
Check the full model numbers of both appliances against the kit’s compatibility list, then follow its installation instructions.
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Forgetting about laundry dried on an airer
When you also use an airer, damp laundry adds moisture to the home. For this type of drying, ADEME recommends a large, well-ventilated room or one with mechanical ventilation extraction.
Set aside a suitable place for loads you don’t put in the appliance. This doesn’t mean that a condenser tumble dryer needs an outside duct.
Brand and model guide
These details apply to the models listed, not to every appliance made by each brand.
Bosch
The WTH83V01FF offers a useful point of comparison for a separate heat pump tumble dryer.
- Bosch lists a capacity of 8 kg and dimensions of 842 × 598 × 613 mm for the WTH83V01FF.
- Check the manual for the clearances and installation requirements that apply to your space.
Electrolux
The EW9W1165RC heat pump washer-dryer shows why it’s important to check the difference between washing and drying capacity.
- Electrolux lists a washing capacity of 10 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg for this model.
- A 10 kg wash load therefore can’t be dried in a single cycle at the stated capacity of 6 kg.
Whirlpool
The FFDD1074489BVFR is another washer-dryer example where the two capacities need to be considered separately.
- Whirlpool lists a washing capacity of 10 kg and a drying capacity of 7 kg for this model.
- For a complete wash-and-dry cycle, keep loads within the 7 kg drying limit.
Miele
The WTV 511 kit shows why a stacked setup should be chosen based on compatible model numbers, not dimensions alone.
- Miele lists the WTV 511 for Chrome Edition T1 and T1 Classic tumble dryers.
- The stated compatibility excludes WTZH/WTW washing machine series. Don’t assume it works with other models unless this is confirmed.
Tumble dryers available from Joybuy
These are separate condenser or heat pump tumble dryers for homes without an outside vent. If you’re considering a washer-dryer or a stacked setup, check the capacities and compatibility requirements separately.
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Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE, 8 kg heat pump tumble dryer
A separate appliance to consider if you have room for a tumble dryer without an outside connection. Its stated capacity is 8 kg and the title lists class C. Check the dimensions, clearances and cycle time for the programme you’re interested in.
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Comfee CD08EHP05W-HR, 8 kg heat pump tumble dryer
This separate model offers drying without an outside duct, provided it’s suitable for your room. Its stated capacity is 8 kg and its class is listed as D. Check the dimensions, clearances and cycle details before choosing it.
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Electrolux EDH1018CD GentleCare, 8 kg condenser tumble dryer
This condenser tumble dryer is a separate option that doesn’t need an outside duct. Its stated capacity is 8 kg; the listed dimensions are 60 × 65 × 85 cm and the power supply is 230 V/50 Hz. Check the manual for the required clearances and make sure the connection is suitable for your home.
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Comfee CD10EHP05W-HR, heat pump tumble dryer
This separate heat pump model can be considered if you don’t have an outside connection. Confirm its capacity before buying: the title and one description list 10 kg, while another specification lists 8 kg. Also check the manual for the dimensions and installation requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Does a condenser tumble dryer need an outside duct?
No. UFC-Que Choisir says that condenser tumble dryers can work without an outside connection, whether they’re standard models or heat pump models. However, check the manual for the installation and connection requirements of the model you choose.
Can a washer-dryer dry its entire washing load?
Not if the load exceeds its drying capacity. UFC-Que Choisir points out that this is lower than the washing capacity. To run both stages without taking any laundry out, stick to the stated drying capacity.
How can I work out the duration of a wash-and-dry cycle?
Check the duration of the complete programme for the load in question, rather than the wash time alone. As an example for one specific model, Electrolux lists a duration of 9 h 40 for the Eco 40-60 programme at full washing and drying capacity on the EW9W1165RC.
Can I use any stacking kit to stack two appliances?
No. Compatibility depends on the model numbers. For example, Miele specifies that the WTV 511 is for certain tumble dryer series and excludes WTZH/WTW washing machine series. Check that the two appliances and kit are compatible, and read the installation instructions before planning a stacked setup.
What should I check about the electrical connection?
Before buying, check the selected model’s installation requirements and compare them with your home’s actual electrical setup. Also make sure the space meets the dimensions and clearance requirements for the appliance.