When it comes to choosing a clothes dryer, there is far more to consider than you may think. If you are in the market for one, here are the top considerations to keep in mind before making your final decision.
Size
The first thing you need to look at is the size of the machine. However, always remember that this isn’t directly connected to the capacity of the machine, but rather the actual size of the entire unit.
Whether it’s one of the many heat pump dryers, a vented dryer, or something else, pay close attention to how much space it takes up, and how much space you need to store it correctly.
Capacity
The capacity of the machine is important for a few reasons. Firstly, you want one that allows you to do whole loads of laundry, saving you time and money and not having to run the machine multiple times.
You also need to consider how much laundry you will actually be doing. If you are single, a small-capacity machine will be more than enough. On the other hand, if you have a large family, the largest capacity machine is the best.
Venting
If you don’t want your walls and ceilings covered in moisture and mold, then you need to ensure your machine vents properly. As a standard, the machine should be in a room with a window to ensure you can let air in to dry the space out.
You also need to check if the machine has a venting pipe to get rid of the moist air, or at the very least, it can be fitted with a venting kit. If the machine has a vent at the front of the machine, be sure that you can attach a kit to it, as these types of vents often don’t allow kit attachments.
Settings
Regarding settings, this will depend on your needs, the types of clothes you are drying, the speed you want the drying done, etc. However, there are some settings your machine has to have to ensure it is as useful as it can be, even at a basic level.
Speed modes, a mode for delicates, a mode for heavy materials like wool, etc, should all be what you look for. You can also consult a salesperson and express your needs, and they will direct you down the right path.
Extra Settings
On top of the basic clothes dryer settings, many models have additional settings that are most certainly not standard. For instance, some machines have a steam cycle, which uses steam to freshen the clothes and remove wrinkles.
These settings vary as some brands have their own unique functions, but it is important to note that these settings make the machine more expensive. Therefore, take the time to consider if you actually need them, and if they are worth the money.
Noise
Clothe dryers aren’t the quietest appliances, and there are several factors that will affect how loud or quiet they are. For instance, even just placing the machine on an uneven surface will change the balance of the machine, and make it seem louder than it is.
Additionally, many machines won’t advertise their noise level, but you can look for a machine that has vibration-reduction technology, which limits the amount of shaking the machine does, and dampens the amount of sound it produces.
Stackable/Mounted
If you are short on space, you should look for a model that can either be stacked or mounted. A machine you can stack allows you to place it on top of a washing machine, which takes up less space.
A mountable dryer is one that has fixtures that allow you to attach it to the wall, and you can place it above a counter to, once again, take up less floor space.
Price
The price of the machine will vary depending on several factors. A few of the obvious ones would be the brand, size, capacity, settings, etc. When it comes to deciding on how much you will spend, you can make it a simple process.
The capacity and the settings are the two factors to pay close attention to. First, ask yourself if it is big enough for your needs, and then ask if it is worth spending the money on the settings it offers. Once you answer these questions, it is much easier to decide if it is worth the money.
Washer-Dryer Combo
Finally, another option you have is to buy a washer and dryer combo. This is the perfect option for those who live in apartments or those that have limited space. However, there are two main downsides to consider when looking at this option.
First off, they aren’t as common in the US as they are in Europe, meaning you may struggle to find replacement parts, or find a machine at all. Secondly, they aren’t star performers in either washing or drying; they are average in both regards. However, if you find one at a good price and upgrade it later on, they are still good to start with.
