What are the different types of dryers available?
"Dryers have come a long way over the years and the new technology and innovations we’re seeing is incredible. There is no one-size-fits all. Shoppers can now find heat pump dryers, condenser dryers, sensor dryers and vented dryers from leading brands, with size and feature variations to fit any budget," expresses category expert Peter Simic from The Good Guys.
What's the difference between heat pump, condenser, sensor and vented dryers?
The different types of dryers available may feel a bit overwhelming to begin with, but finding one that suits your lifestyle and needs is important.
Heat pump dryers
Heat pump dryers are the most energy efficient as no venting is needed.
"They don’t create hot air or moisture so they're perfect for apartments. They also use less than half the energy of a vented or condenser dryer. They might cost higher at the time of purchasing, however those costs could be recouped on power bill savings over the dryer's lifetime,” explains Simic.
Vented dryers
Vented dryers are among the lowest priced of the category.
"They can be the most affordable to purchase however they do generate a lot of warm, moist air, so they need a ducting vent installed to pump the hot air outside the house. Or they need to be in a well-ventilated room to prevent mould forming on walls and ceilings."
Condenser dryers
"Condenser dryers on the other hand do not require outside venting. This is a great option for rental homes. Some models have a water container that needs to be manually emptied after each load, while others have a hose that drains the water automatically. The drying process does increase air moisture levels, so a well-ventilated room is always recommended to prevent mould forming."
Sensor dryers
Sensor dryers saves energy by switching off when detecting your clothes are dry. This also helps to prevent over-drying and damage to clothes. They also need a ducting vent that pumps the hot, humid air outside the house.
If external duct venting is unavailable, Simic recommends to position sensor dryers in a well-ventilated room to prevent mould forming on walls and ceilings.
"Sensor dryers can cost more to buy than timed vented dryers but the advantage is they cost up to 15 per cent less to run for power bill savings," adds Simic.
What dryer size should I buy for my home?
The next thing you need to consider is what size dryer will fit in your laundry.
"It is always important to measure the space carefully and always leave an extra 2.5cm of space around all dryer sides for air circulation. It is also important to leave an extra 15cm of depth to take the door at the front, and dryer vents, cables, and hose hook-ups at the back into account. Some dryers models can be stacked on top of your washing machine to save space," advises Simic.
"As a rule, a larger drum size dries everything faster. However, the power usage is also higher. It is important to find a dryer that's large enough for your needs but not so big it wastes power."
A guide to the right size choice:
- 4kg-6.5kg is ideal for 1-2 people. This would work for around 4-6 towels or 4-6 outfits
- 7kg-8.5kg is ideal for 3-4 people. The capacity you can expect is around 7-8 towels or 7-8 outfits
- For more than five people, you might want to opt for a 9+kg for your family. Each load can dry approximately 9+ towels or 9+ outfits
With expert knowledge under our belt, read on to see our top picks of dryer models that will make laundry days a breeze.
1. BOSCH 9kg heat pump dryer, $1677, The Good Guys
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As recommended by Simic, this BOSCH dryer has a huge 9kg capacity and is perfect for households of five or more. The large drum means fewer loads are needed, while the heat pump dries fabrics more carefully and efficiently, keeping power bills down.
Key features:
- 8-star energy rating
- 13 drying programs from towels to delicates, to suit every unique cycle
- AntiVibration side panels to reduce noise
2. Solt 4.5kg vented dryer, $323, The Good Guys
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If less capacity is required, the Solt 4.5kg vented dryer is perfect for households of one of two - as recommended by Simic.
"As a vented dryer, it is among the most affordable type of dryer to buy for those who are on a budget, however always keep in mind that running costs can be higher. For installation, outside ducting is needed to ensure that moist air flows outside via a hose or alternatively, simply place in a really well-ventilated room."
Key features
- Stainless steel drum - made to be delicate on your clothes
- Adjustable levelling legs for stability
3. LG 9kg heat pump dryer, $1797, The Good Guys
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Who knew dryers could look so sleek? This heat pump dryer by LG not only looks great in your laundry room (hello modern black steel exterior), it also has all the specs you’re looking for in a high quality dryer.
Key features:
- 9-star energy rating: this dryer uses a compressor to create hot air, using less electricity compared to traditional vented dryers.
- Auto-cleaning condenser: an automatic cleaning function occurs during the drying process to maintain optimal machine performance, every cycle.
- Sensor Dry technology to prevent over-drying and to determine the optimal amount of time needed depending on the load.
- No external vents required, ensuring easy installation.
- Smart features: ThinQ app allows you to remotely start and monitor your clothes from afar.
4. Haier 4kg sensor dryer, $419, The Good Guys
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Perfect for households of one or two, this Haier dryer is small and compact with the capacity to dry up to 4kg of clothes. Plus, it’s an affordable vented dryer option for those who are occasional dryer users (but love the convenience of owning one).
Key features:
- Sensor cycle technology to take the guesswork out of laundry days.
- Seven drying programs to choose from.
- Reverse tumble action to ensure heat is evenly distributed during the cycle.
- Wall-mount option available, making it perfect for smaller spaces.
5. Electrolux 8kg Ultimate Care heat pump dryer, $1299, Bing Lee
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Electrolux is currently pegged as the best brand for clothes dryers according to Canstar Blue’s 2021 survey - overtaking popular dryer brand, Simpson, from their four-year reign. Canstar Blue asked nearly 500 consumers for their feedback on dryers they had purchased, tried and trialled in the last five years. Electrolux scored highest in performance, reliability, additional functionality, quietness, design, value for money and overall satisfaction.
The Electrolux 9kg Ultimate Care heat pump dryer is an excellent option for families who are looking to save time doing their laundry.
Key features:
- 7-star energy rating.
- Advanced sensor dry technology to prevent over drying.
- Soft touch drum for gentle drying: its raised circular structure minimises prolonged contact between clothes and the drum, so fabrics aren’t stressed or damaged during the drying process.
- Reverse tumble to dry clothes evenly and prevent wrinkles and tangling of garments.
6. Bosch Serie 6 8kg heat pump dryer, $1362, Appliances Online
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If you’re looking for a quiet dryer, the Bosch Serie 6 heat pump dryer features anti-vibration walls that stablises the machine, which in turn reduces noise - even during spin cycle. For its premium price tag, the Bosch heat pump dryer is energy efficient and easy to use.
Key features:
- 8-star energy rating.
- AutoDry function saves time and energy by automatically stopping the drying process when it's complete.
- Sensitive drying system – soft carriers coupled with flow of mild and warm air ensures clothes are dried gently.
- AnitVibration design for a super quiet cycle.
7. Samsung 8kg AI-enabled heat pump dryer, $1292, The Good Guys
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Another incredibly sleek number, Samsung’s latest dryer features 14-dryer cycles and is integrated with AI technology to optimise your cycle based on your lifestyle, usage pattern and current season.
Key features:
- 9-star energy rating
- AI pattern technology – the dryer learns your preferred cycled and optimisies setting selection accordingly.
- OptimalDry system that checks humidity levels and adjusts drying time to prevent over drying.
- SmartThings app compatible – making it easy to remotely start/stop cycles.
8. Simpson 4.5kg vented dryer, $499, Appliances Online
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Simpson is known to make affordable introductory dryers that does the job. The 4.5kg vented dryer is a great option for apartments and households of one or two – drying your clothes in a flash.
Key features:
- Reverse tumbling feature for even drying
- Auto cool down function – reduces creasing
- Wall-mount available – a great space saving option
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