Tumble Dryers

[jaynethepain]

Considering a new tumble dryer, what are the pros and cons against vented and condenser types please?

[Sycamore3House]

Have used both types in various premises that came with the job and no means of hanging washing outside. I just find the vented ones better to use mainly because I used to find it a pain in the whotsit to empty the collection chamber of water. I also used to find that the condenser seemed to steam up the kitchen when in operation. I am probably lazy also in not wanting any extra work as it is supposed to be labour saving device. The last tumble dryer I bought was the cheapest one from Argos about £100 and it is vented. For the money it works brill even after 7 years. I would buy another one when this gives up.

[ummmm]

You can put a condenser in any room.

[jaynethepain]

Someone else told me about emptying the wotsit full of water, don't fancy that really but then do I want a hole in the wall?

[ummmm]

It doesn't fill up that quickly. How much clothes do you actually dry in a TD?

[Mosaic]

The condenser type is more prone to problems, mainly because the design intends the dryer to run a full cycle with a cooling-down period before being stopped. If you open the door to take a peek partway through the drying time, it can put stress of the thermocouple.
This doesn't seem to be the case with vented types, which just sort of chug along and don't seem unduly bothered if you fling open the door and check the load, or stop the cycle part way through without cooling.

[ummmm]

I didn't know that, Mosaic, I always open mine.

[Daffy6543]

Vented fills the house with steam if you don't use the hose correctly, it can cause horrible condensation and mould growth. I currently have a washer dryer that is neither condenser or vented.

[gingejbee]

Lots of good advice from Which?.....

http://www.which.co.uk/reviews/tumble-dryers/article/advice/how-to-buy-the-best-tumble-dryer

[Daffy6543]

You don't have to have a hole in the wall for a vented one, as long as it is sited fairly close to a window you can just dangle the vent hose outside.

[woofgang]

I have got a condenser now after years of vented, would never go back.

[Tilly2]

I have a Miele Novotronic condenser dryer. It is a wonderful piece of equipment with lots of different programmes and settings. One of them is a 20 minute hot air programme, which means that I have not had to iron a pair of jeans for the last four years. I just pop them in there and they come out like new. Expensive, initially, but well worth it.

[kloofnek]

I am thinking of investing in a tumble dryer
I will be putting it in the garage ,no room in kitchen,but am worried about the condensation that accumulates during the very cold weather.It has a corrugated roof.I shall not be using it during those months as the central heating will be on ,and so,have no problem in drying/airing the washing then.It is in the summer when washing will not air on the line(in the sun),so the dryer is handy to finish it off.Do not intend drying washing from wet.!!!
I am worried that the condensation will make the dryer go rusty but if I cover it well and stand it on cardboard or something,do you think it will be ok.

I think I shall opt for a vented one as I can let the air out of the window or the side door.
Any advice??

[hc4361]

My condenser dryer is over ten years old, problem free. I don't empty a reservoir because it empties into the drain.

[kloofnek]

What make is it hc?

[hc4361]

Miele.

[maera]

a miele novotronic, excellent, well worth the extra money

[jaynethepain]

Kloofnek, my current dryer is outside in the garage and I use it all year round with no problems with rusting at all. I do open the window in the depths of winter as a lot a condensation builds up but never had a problem.

[ummmm]

Kloofnek - you don't get condensation with a condenser dryer.

[thugulike]

Condenser - no contest

[kloofnek]

Jayne...what is your current dryer,vented or condenser...sorry bout getting back so late...so much to do after a fortnight away!!!