What is a Condenser Tumble Dryer?

A condenser tumble dryer is a type of clothes dryer that works by extracting the moisture from wet laundry and collecting it in an external container, rather than releasing it into the air. The condensed water tank can then be emptied away as normal or reused for other purposes. 

Unlike vented tumble dryers that expel damp air outside through a hose and external vent, condenser tumble dryers collect the moisture in a removable water tank or through a drain hose, making them more flexible in terms of placement.

How do condenser tumble dryers work?

The heat is generated by an electric heating element and is circulated through the drum that holds the clothes. The moisture is then extracted from the hot air and collected in the condenser unit or tank. The dry air is reheated and circulated back into the drum and continues until the clothes become dry.

 

Where is a suitable location for a condenser dryer?

Condenser dryers are popular in homes and apartments where a venting system is not available or practical. They are also useful for drying clothes during the colder months of the year when clothes can't be dried outside. However, the drying process may take longer to dry clothes than vented tumble dryers, and the condenser unit needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain efficient operation.

 

Emptying A Dryer Filter

Tumble dryer maintenance

Which type of dryer is best? Tumble dryer condenser or vented dryers? 

Whether a condenser dryer or a vented dryer is better depends on your individual needs and circumstances.

 

Vented tumble dryers:

• Are usually cheaper to buy than condenser tumble dryers.

• They work by venting the hot, moist air outside through a hose, which means they can dry clothes faster and use less energy in the process.

• They do require an external vent or a window to be open to allow the moist air to escape, which may not be practical in some homes or apartments.

• You require a well-ventilated room for the hose to be able to perform properly.

 

Condenser dryers:

• Are more flexible in terms of placement, as they don't require an external vent or a window to be open and are more compact.

• They collect moisture in a removable tank or through a drain hose, making them ideal for apartments or homes without outdoor access.

• They may take longer to dry clothes and use more energy than vented dryers depending on the model and energy efficiency rating.

• The condenser unit filters need to be cleaned regularly to maintain efficient operation.

 

What is an integrated condenser tumble dryer?

An integrated dryer is a type of clothes dryer that is built into a kitchen or unit. It is designed to fit flush with the other units, creating a seamless look and freeing up floor space. These types of dryers use condensation technology, meaning that the hot air used to dry the clothes is condensed and collected in an external container which does need to be cleaned and maintained regularly.

 

Emptying a condenser dryer water tank

Condenser dryer maintenance 

How do I find an energy-efficient condenser tumble dryer?

When buying a condenser tumble dryer, it is important to look for one that is energy-efficient. An energy-efficient tumble dryer can save you money on your electricity bills and help reduce your carbon footprint. To find an efficient model, look for one with the following features:

• A high energy efficiency rating – Look for models that have been awarded a B to an A+++ energy rating.

• Low running costs – Compare models to find the ones with the lowest electricity consumption per load.

• Eco-friendly features – Look for features such as heat pump technology, auto-sensing programs and low-temperature settings to save energy.

• Quiet operation – Many condenser tumble dryers come with sound insulation and noise reduction features to reduce how much noise they make during operation.

• Easy to clean – Look for models with removable or self-cleaning condenser units, which make cleaning and maintenance easier.

 

These added features may result in a higher upfront cost, however, it may save you money on your household energy bills in the long run.

Additionally, it will be beneficial to ensure that the load capacity is at a suitable level. Drying a partial load of clothes will not be energy efficient, whilst a large load may take longer to dry if the dryer is too full. You can check your individual dryer specifications for load capacity details.

 

What are the best-priced condenser tumble dryers UK?

There are many cost-effective condenser tumble dryer options.

This Miele dryer has an energy efficient rating of A++ and has many drying features suited to your drying requirements, or this Blomberg condenser dryer has a B energy efficiency rating. Many of our laundry products come with a 2 year+ warranty, so you can be assured that our products are reliable and efficient, whilst having that peace of mind.

If you would like some expert buying advice, do not hesitate to contact us. We have a wide range of washing machines, freestanding tumble dryers and integrated tumble dryers for your laundry needs