Choosing a home clothes dryer

Clothes dryers work in one of two ways. Vented dryers continuously heat and expel hot air from the machine, and require ducting or ventilation to direct the air outside. Condenser dryers extract the water from the moist air into a compartment, to be emptied later. But which type of home clothes dryer is right for you?

Adrian Aparo from Berloni Appliances believes that while condenser dryers are more expensive, their long-term value is worth the initial outlay. He says they're gentler on clothes, are cheaper to run and can last up to 20 years. However, vented dryers are still more popular, with a larger range available. They are cheaper and may be the best option for the budget conscious, although the running costs will be higher. You will also need to factor in ventilation, as the moist air they expel can lead to peeling paint and mould, and potential health risks.

Laundry Layout

When choosing a home clothes dryer, consider the layout of your laundry. Dryers can be wall mounted to save space, though this is not always possible with heavier condenser models. Stacking is another option. "It's also common for people to place washers and dryers side by side and put a bench on top," Adrian says. Because they don't require ventilation, condenser models are great for confined spaces, such as in European laundries. Combination washer/dryers are also available, although the drying capacity of these is generally half that of the washing capacity, making them impractical for large families.

Powering your Home Clothes Dryer

The available power supply will also be a determining factor in your choice of home clothes dryer. Most dryers run on electricity, but there are a limited number of gas models available. These are much cheaper to run, but unless you have an existing gas connection in your laundry, the installation cost may be a deterrent. Consider how much you will use the dryer. A medium-size model between 5kg and 6kg is large enough for a small family, but you may want to go bigger or smaller, depending on your needs. Home clothes dryers use a lot of energy, so look for one that has a good energy efficiency rating. This can save you money in the long term, and will be better for the environment.

Home clothes dryers should be placed in an accessible location, with easy access to controls and the lint filter. Some models come with reversible doors, which are handy in tight spots. Programs can also be a useful feature, with some minimising creases and reducing the ironing needed. Many machines can detect which settings to use and automatically stop when your clothes are dry. This saves energy and prevents over-drying. A cool-down option at the end of the cycle also reduces wrinkling.