Choosing a dryer for your home. TOP 5 dryers 

We will determine the pros and cons of the dryer, get acquainted with the types and main characteristics that you need to pay attention to when choosing. Also, the TOP 5 dryers of 2019 will be presented to your attention.

Choosing a dryer for your home

Today, when buying a dryer, there is a good selection of devices. First of all, you can choose between a drying cabinet and a tumble dryer.

Our rating, to a greater extent, is devoted to dryers with a drum, due to their compactness and convenience in urban environments.

• In a more budget drying cabinet large items are hung, and small items are stacked. For example, you can hang your coat without wrinkling it. In addition to drying, things in such a closet can simply be ventilated from unpleasant odors or refreshed before preparing for the new season. The cabinet is connected to the ventilation pipe, and the fan drives out the moisture evaporating during drying.
• Tumble dryer: in this case, it is possible to buy a reliable dryer from a well-known manufacturer. The principle of operation of the drum dryer is that things are loaded into the drum through the hatch. Hot air passes through numerous holes in the drum — and dries things. Depending on the dimensions of the drum, such a dryer can dry from 5 to 10 kg of laundry at a time.

The automatic drum dryer is divided into two types: «ventilation» and «condensation».

• Ventilation dryers work like this: moist air goes into the ventilation shaft or pipe. A heat pump is running inside the device. In this case, it is necessary to install a pipe for the removal of moist air.
• Dryers of condensing type: water goes into the condensate tank, after which the owner of the machine pours out the water. For some models, waste water is sent directly to the sewer. This type of dryer is more practical, more expensive than ventilation dryers, however, its installation site should not be tied to a ventilation shaft or an air outlet pipe.
• Heat pump condenser dryers: have a cooling circuit that promotes rapid condensation and dries faster than the above types of clothes dryers. The air condenser-heat exchanger is also called a «recuperator». The heat released during the condensation of moisture is used to heat the air, which dries the laundry. This continuous cycle is the most efficient and these dryers are considered the fastest. Also, a dryer with a heat pump differs from a dryer with a heating element in that it almost does not heat the air. It’s convenient in summer.

As an alternative to the above types, a washing machine having a laundry drying function can be considered; however, it costs 2-3 times more than a tumble dryer. In addition, tumble dryers usually have filters that collect lint and hair, while washing machines keep everything in the drum.

Dryer pros and cons

Pros:

• drying clothes in any weather;
• effective drying of any linen, including outerwear and blankets;
• speed of work;
• very significant time savings;
• optional ironing (when using the functions «easy iron», «anti-crease», «anti-crease»);
• treatment of children’s clothes and linen with hot air (in some models — steam treatment);
• a large number of modes (for different types of fabrics);
• elimination of unpleasant odors;
• collection of villi and hair filters;
• no need to install an air vent (for a condenser dryer);
• it is possible to install directly on top of the washing machine / hang on brackets (space saving).

Minuses:

• additional costs (for the purchase of a dryer);
• it is necessary to connect to the hood, air outlet (ventilation dryer);
• it is necessary to connect to the sewer or pour out condensate (in the case of a tumble dryer);
• high noise level;
• heats the air (if there is no recuperator / compressor);
• takes up a lot of space in the apartment / house.

Useful tips when choosing a dryer, what you should pay attention to first

• The drying cabinet is very large, but often cheaper than a dryer with a drum.
• When buying a tumble dryer, look for a model with paddles designed to evenly distribute the laundry.
• Please note that a condensing machine with a condensate tank (that is, without a direct drain) can be installed anywhere, without being tied to an exhaust hood and sewerage.
• If you like the idea of ​​stacking your dryer on top of your washer (to save space), then carefully measure the dimensions of your washer, and be sure to take into account the depth of the cabinet and the principle of waste water drainage. In this case, the loading of linen in both machines should be frontal.
• Capacity is an important factor when choosing a unit, so you have two options:

• • become attached to the capacity of your «washer»;
  • Dry laundry from 2 cycles of the washing machine immediately in one cycle of the dryer.

• The operating time of the machine must be indicated in the instructions for the device. Please note that:

• • the full cycle of the dryer, on average, is 1.5-2 hours;
  • In quick dry mode, the tumble dryer runs for 40 minutes as a rule.

• The residual moisture content of the laundry is a technical parameter that the dryer has. In some models, the residual humidity can be adjusted using a timer. This feature is important when you are wearing fabrics that cannot be dried out and need to be ironed when slightly damp.
• The quality of the main components (motor, drum, heat pump, sunroof) and materials matter. Signs of a quality dryer: a reversible motor, the presence of a heat pump, with a condensation type of drying; the presence of filters of the heat exchanger (dust collector) and condensate; galvanized drum, enamelled body, informative display.
• The functionality of the dryer is usually determined by the aforementioned residual moisture, as well as the speed of movement of hot air inside. For the convenience of the user, the programs are linked to the types of fabrics: wool, cotton, delicate fabrics, etc. In this case, the manufacturer has already entered the necessary drying parameters into the automatic program. Quick drying, airing and steaming are additional programs that will be useful in any home.
• In order to determine the cost of the dryer, we offer you a brief summary:

• • from 100 to 150$: modest drying units for 5-6 kg, exhaust type, with 1-2 programs, including outdated models;
  • from 150 to 200$: dryers with a large capacity; decent dimensions (about 85 × 60 × 60 cm); enough programs. In such machines, you can set the drying time, but the residual moisture content of the laundry cannot be set;
  • from 200 to 250$: such automatic dryers are electronically controlled, capable of drying from 7 kg at the same time, have more than 10 programs, a delayed start timer, child protection, a laundry ventilation mode; the ability to set the drying time and residual moisture;
  • over 250-300 $: dryers with an enamelled body, a high-quality drum, a mandatory quick-drying program, often blades from knocking clothes into a ball, a delayed drying timer; but consume more electricity than budget models.

• The energy class of your future dryer will depend on its capacity. Typically, multifunctional models have a large energy consumption — class B (about 4 kW of electricity per hour.), C, D). For those who want to go economical, there are many less powerful and simpler tumble dryers with A, A+ or A++ energy ratings; and it is these models that are present in our rating.
• The noise level of the dryer should not exceed 65 dB. Machines with paddles to prevent churning of laundry are noisier than others.
• When choosing a condensate dryer with a condensate container, please note that the container must be easily removed from the body and inserted back, and also have a mark (full indicator). Also be sure to check for a filter/dust catcher.
• A delay start timer, like a washing machine, will help you save time.
• Today, well-known manufacturers of household appliances offer dryers connected to the Smart Home system. In this case, the device is controlled from a distance, from your smartphone. If you are interested, this is possible.

TOP 5 dryers 

5th place: Hotpoint-Ariston FTCF 87B 6H 

The most inexpensive dryer in our ranking. Initially, you should pay attention to the fact that the manufacturer offers to hang this overall device on brackets (included) above the washing machine. This will help save space.

The condensate is collected in a tank, so the machine does not need to be connected to the ventilation. There is a possibility of a conclusion of moisture in the sewerage.

A large number of programs also provide for a different duration of the working cycle: for example, it will take 1.5 hours for cotton and 30 minutes for synthetics. Most of the clothes do not need to be ironed.

The dust filter should be cleaned regularly, after 1-2 drying cycles.

Characteristics:

• Drying type: condensation;
• Maximum loading: 8 kg;
• Number of drying programs: 16 pcs;
• Energy class: B;
• Depth: 61 cm;
• Door: round with glass;
• Display: yes;
• Functionality: control of humidity of linen, the timer of a delay of start, fast drying;
• refreshing cycle, child proof;
• Management: rotary knob, buttons;
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 85×60×61 cm.

Advantages:

• low price;
• many programs;
• there is a quick drying;
• capacious drum;
• convenient dimensions;
• there is a possibility of hanging on brackets.

Flaws:

• sufficiently high energy consumption (class B);
• weak mesh dust collector.

4th place: Samsung DV90K6000CW

This dryer attracts with a large capacity — 9 kg of washed laundry. The reversible motor is also one of the advantages of this model. In addition, the machine uses Heatpump technology (heat pump), using refrigerant without heating up and saving energy. The anti-crease function makes ironing easier, while the quick dry function and timer will be useful for those who save time.

The model does not cause much trouble: a digital display with the name of programs in European, an indicator of the fullness of the condensate tank, a child lock are at your disposal.

Characteristics:

• Drying type: condensing (with heat pump);
• Maximum loading: 9 kg;
• Number of drying programs: 14 pcs;
• Energy class: A;
• Depth: 60 cm;
• Door: round with glass;
• Display: yes;
• Functionality: anti-crease, laundry moisture control, delay start timer, quick drying, child protection, drum light, condensate tank full indicator;
• Management: rotary knob, sensors;
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 85×60×60 cm;
• Noise level: 65 dB.

Advantages:

• optimal cost;
• capacity;
• reversible motor;
• dryer with heat pump;
• the presence of illumination;
• low power consumption;
• a large number of programs;
• there is anti-crease;
• there is a timer;
• informative display;
• there is a condensation indicator;
• high level of protection;
• does not heat the air in the room;
• quiet work.

Flaws:

• bad instruction;
• the need to constantly clean the heat exchanger filter;
• black things turn white (whitish stripes after drying);
• strong squeak when switching modes.

3rd place: Candy CS4 H7A1DE

Drying machine of condensing type, with recuperator — heat pump. The main advantages of the model are a large load (7 kg), laundry humidity control using sensors and high energy efficiency (class A +). The reverse rotation of the drum prevents clothes from creasing and squeezing them into a ball. This machine is the specialist for delicate garments, no matter how big the load. The Candy CS4 H7A1DE dryer has 14 programs that take into account all possible types of laundry. The mode and temperature are shown on the display. Among the programs, there is a refreshing cycle, which is offered by the manufacturer to remove unpleasant odors from clothes.

The condensate tank must be emptied according to the appropriate indication. At the same time, thanks to the filter, well-purified distilled water enters the water tank, which can be used for household needs. The manufacturer emphasizes that the hatch for loading laundry is located 3.5 cm higher than that of other machines, and this plays a role in ease of use. The start of work can be delayed by 23 hours. The model interfaces with the Smart Home system, supporting control from a smartphone via NFC.

Characteristics:

• Drying type: condensing (plus a heat pump);
• Maximum loading: 7 kg;
• Number of drying programs: 15 pcs;
• Energy class: A+;
• Depth: 47 cm;
• Door: round with glass;
• Display: yes;
• Functionality: anti-crease, laundry moisture control, delay start timer (24 hours), quick drying, refresh cycle, condensate tank full indicator, child protection, own program;
• Management: rotary knob, buttons;
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 85×60×47 cm;
• Noise level: 67 dB;
• Drum volume: 115 l;
• Condensate tank volume: 5 l.

Advantages:

• optimal cost;
• 15 programs;
• reversible drum;
• there is an anti-crease function;
• condensation indicator;
• energy efficiency;
• the presence of a delay start timer;
• narrow;
• does not heat the air in the room;
• convenient management;
• convenient dimensions;
• smart touch;
• smartphone control via NFC.

Flaws:

• not very roomy;
• woolen clothes shrink when dried.

2nd place: Bosch WTH 83000

An interesting and high-quality model of an automatic dryer. The Bosch WTH 83000 dryer has a galvanized drum, the holes in which create streams of hot air that gently treat any fabric. Anti-crease also contributes to the delicate attitude of the machine to your linen. When choosing this device, you will have 15 programs at your disposal, for each the manufacturer gives recommendations in the instructions. The programs include «wool», «mixed linen», «clothes for sports». The condensate can be drained both into a container and directly into the sewer, as it will be convenient for the owner of the car. During operation, this dryer almost does not vibrate, as the body has AntiVibration Design anti-vibration strips. The noise level is a maximum of 65 dB.

Characteristics:

• Drying type: condensation;
• Maximum loading: 8 kg;
• Number of drying programs: 15 pcs;
• Energy class: A+;
• Depth: 64 cm;
• Door: round;
• Display: yes;
• The volume of the condensate tank is 4.8 l;
• Functionality: anti-crease; laundry humidity control, delay start timer (24 hours), quick drying, child protection, condensate tank full indicator;
• Management: rotary knob, sensors;
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 85×60×64 cm;
• Noise level: 65 dB.

Advantages:

• optimal price;
• high drying speed;
• high degree of automation;
• many drying modes;
• there is anti-crease;
• fullness of the tank with condensate is controlled;
• there is a container for condensate and the possibility of draining into the sewer;
• economical energy consumption;
• sound notification about the end of drying (and the ability to turn it off).

Flaws:

• noisy pump and compressor;
• the declared load of 8 kg applies only to cotton, for all other types of fabrics there are significant weight restrictions;
• opaque door.

1st place: Siemens WT 45W561 

Not all buyers know that the Siemens brand has long specialized in dryers. The manufacturer offers a wide range of dryers with a variety of functions. Proven quality is one of the reasons why the dryer model from Siemens leads our ranking. Regarding the specific model, it must be emphasized that this is practically a “3 in 1”: a condensing type dryer with an additional heat pump and the possibility of steam treatment. Ideal for a large family and lovers of simple eco-friendly cotton clothing.

The anti-crease function allows you not to iron many types of fabrics, and simply neatly folded into the closet. Residual moisture control is convenient for subsequent ironing.

Quick drying and delayed start make the model very convenient for planning your time. Energy efficiency (class A ++) is another important advantage of the Siemens WT 45W561 dryer. Quiet operation, minimum vibration and gentle drying are ensured by the branded drum with the SensitiveDrying system and the special design of the side walls. Cleaning the EasyClean Filter condensation filter is easy, but the pump filter (according to the owners of such machines) requires periodic professional cleaning (1 time in 3 years). In this dryer, the laundry does not dry out, as the manufacturer has provided the device with very precise control of the degree of residual moisture and temperature.

Characteristics:

• Drying type: condensation (heat pump drying + steam treatment);
• Maximum loading: 9 kg;
• Number of drying programs: 14 pcs;
• Energy class: A++ (258 kW/year);
• Depth: 65 cm;
• Door: round with glass;
• Display: yes;
• Drum volume: 112 l;
• Loading hatch diameter: 32 cm;
• Functionality: anti-crease, laundry moisture control, delay start timer, quick dry, steam dry, refresh cycle, child protection, condensate tank full indicator.
• Management: rotary knob, sensors;
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 84×60×65 cm;
• Noise level: 65 dB.

Advantages:

• price-quality ratio;
• economical energy consumption;
• electronic humidity control;
• there is an anti-crease function;
• timer;
• the presence of a heat pump;
• steam drying;
• does not heat the air in the room;
• there is a condensation indicator;
• quiet.

Flaws:

• high price;
• no condensate drain hose;
• very sensitive touch panel;
• inconvenient cleaning of the pump filter (requires professional maintenance);
• large dimensions.

Summing up

An automatic dryer is a large cost item, so our rating contains only reliable condensing type devices that will not cause trouble with installing hoods and will last a long time.

Of the 5 models reviewed, all are gentle on laundry and highly energy efficient, including 3 models with a heat pump and compressor. To keep your tumble dryer running smoothly, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maximum load and filter cleaning frequency.