If you have room for a separate appliance and often dry full loads, start by comparing heat-pump tumble dryers. Que Choisir highlights their low electricity consumption, while noting that conventional condenser models generally dry clothes faster. A washer-dryer is better suited to homes without space for two appliances, provided your loads stay within its drying capacity, which is lower than its washing capacity. Whichever option you choose, check the room’s ventilation and the installation instructions for your model.
A condenser or heat-pump tumble dryer does away with the external exhaust duct required by a vented model. You’ll still need a sufficiently well-ventilated room and must follow the appliance instructions, as Electrolux France points out.
A washer-dryer combines washing and drying in the same space. However, Que Choisir notes that its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity and that its programmes take longer.
If your wash load is larger than your washer-dryer’s drying capacity, you’ll need to remove some clothes or split the drying cycle. If you have space for one, it’s worth comparing a separate tumble dryer.
Worth considering: if you have room for a separate appliance and dry clothes regularly.
The trade-off: according to Que Choisir, conventional condenser models generally dry clothes faster.
Worth considering: if drying time is a priority and you have space for a separate appliance.
Bear in mind: Que Choisir highlights the lower electricity consumption of heat-pump models.
Worth considering: if your home only has room for one appliance.
The trade-off: Que Choisir notes that drying capacity is lower than washing capacity and programmes take longer.
| Factor | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Check the appliance type, room ventilation and installation requirements in the instructions. Electrolux France advises against installing a tumble dryer in an enclosed, unventilated cupboard, in particular. | I don’t have an external vent, but I need to be able to install the appliance in a suitable space. |
| Capacity | Compare the drying capacity in kg with your usual load. For a washer-dryer, check the washing and drying capacities separately. | I want to dry my laundry without routinely having to remove some of it after washing. |
| Energy and drying time | Compare the energy rating, kWh/100 cycles and the duration of comparable programmes in the specifications for the models you’re considering. For a washer-dryer, compare wash-only and wash-and-dry cycles separately. | Depending on how often I do laundry, I may prioritise electricity consumption or how long it takes to get dry clothes. |
| Space | Check the height, width and depth, as well as the space needed to open the door. Check the clearances and installation temperature requirements in the model’s instructions. | The machine needs to fit in its space without obstructing loading or being enclosed in an unsuitable area. |
| Maintenance | Check access to the filter, condenser and water tank, as applicable. Check the maintenance tasks specified in the instructions. | I want to be able to carry out routine maintenance and easily access the tank if it needs emptying. |
Electrolux France warns that installing a tumble dryer in an enclosed, unventilated space can lead to damp on walls and windows.
Before choosing a model, measure the space and check its instructions for clearances, permitted temperatures, door opening and ventilation requirements.
A load that fits for washing may exceed the drying capacity. Que Choisir notes that the two capacities differ; for example, Whirlpool lists 11 kg for washing and 7 kg for drying on the FFWDD 1176258 BCV FR.
Compare your usual load with the drying capacity of the programme you’ll use, or consider whether a separate tumble dryer would work for you.
Que Choisir says that conventional condenser models generally dry clothes faster, while heat-pump models stand out for their low electricity consumption.
To compare specific models, check their programme duration and kWh/100 cycles for comparable capacities and programmes.
The filter, condenser and water tank, where fitted, need to remain accessible for the maintenance specified by the manufacturer.
Check where they are located before installation, then follow the instructions for your model.
These specifications relate to the models listed, not to every appliance from each brand.
The WQG24502FR is an example of the brand’s standalone heat-pump tumble dryers.
The French specifications for the EW9HI783FC and EDHF5841EC let you compare two 8 kg heat-pump tumble dryers.
The FFWDD 1176258 BCV FR shows the difference between a washer-dryer’s washing and drying capacities.
These four appliances are standalone heat-pump or condenser tumble dryers. They’re for homes where you can set aside space for drying, rather than for shoppers looking for a washer-dryer.
Image unavailable
A standalone appliance to consider if you have a dedicated space and dry clothes regularly. It has a listed capacity of 8 kg, and the title gives it a class C energy rating. Before choosing, compare this model’s programme durations, kWh/100 cycles and installation requirements.
Image unavailable
This standalone tumble dryer has a listed capacity of 8 kg and a class D energy rating. If cycle duration matters to you, compare its programmes and kWh/100 cycles with those of other models you’re considering. Also check its dimensions and installation instructions.
Image unavailable
This standalone model is described as an 8 kg condenser tumble dryer. Check the exact technology in the manufacturer’s specifications before comparing it with a conventional condenser or heat-pump model, then check the installation requirements in its instructions.
Image unavailable
This standalone heat-pump model has a class D energy rating. Its title states a 10 kg capacity, but the main description says 8 kg. Confirm the capacity of the exact variant before deciding whether it suits your loads. Also check the programme durations and installation instructions.
No. Unlike a vented tumble dryer, it doesn’t need a duct to expel warm, damp air outside. However, you still need to follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements, including those for room ventilation. Electrolux France advises against placing the appliance in an enclosed, unventilated cupboard.
Don’t assume that this space is suitable. Electrolux France recommends a well-ventilated room and says that a room without ventilation or a window isn’t ideal. Check the model’s instructions to confirm the installation requirements for your room.
Not if the wash load exceeds its drying capacity, which Que Choisir says is lower than its washing capacity. For the Whirlpool FFWDD 1176258 BCV FR, Whirlpool France lists a washing capacity of 11 kg and a drying capacity of 7 kg. Any load over 7 kg needs to be reduced before drying.
It depends on the model and how it’s connected. Some models collect water in a tank; Electrolux France also offers a drain kit for certain condenser tumble dryers. Check that the kit is compatible and follow the instructions before setting up a direct water drain.
Not necessarily. Check the specifications for each mode separately. Whirlpool France lists a class B rating for washing only and class E for washing and drying on the FFWDD 1176258 BCV FR. Compare the figures for the cycle you’ll use.