Clothes Dryers - Things you should know

The vented dryer is the most popular model. They are usually cheaper and have a better look to them. In a vented dryer the warm moist air exits the dryer through a hole or “venting kit” at the rear of the dryer. A vented dryer is usually vented to the out side of the place so the warm, moist air is removed from the inside. It is a common mistake to think that vented dryers must be vented! It is possible to have a vented dryer without an external vent. If you wish to use a vented dryer without any venting then you must make sure the unit is in an open environment where it can get good airflow and has the deflector plate attached. You must empty the lint out before every use and make sure a widow or door is open to give some circulation. If these things are not done the moisture and mould can build up and cause your paint to peal, and in a worst case scenario a fire could even begin.

Condenser dryers are less popular and usually cost more. They are also bigger and weigh more than a vented dryer. With a condenser dryer the moisture is extracted from the air and depending on the machine, held within the unit to be emptied manually or pumped away to a drain. The dry air is then reused in the machine. This type of dryer is best suited to confined spaces. The condenser dryer is a better option for the environment.

While these are the two main categories in dryers there is also the Timer and Auto Sensing dryer. Of course the auto sensor is the better option but then it does cost more but it can also save you money!A timer dryer is a basic model. The consumer sets the length of time the dryer will run.

A sensor dryer is more expensive to buy but can save you money in the long run! An auto sensing dryer has moisture sensors that establish when the clothes are dry and automatically turn the dryer off. This is done by the machine sensing the temperature of the exhaust air. An auto sensor can save you up to 15% on your running costs and of course is better for your clothes.

For me the best option is a vented dryer with auto sensing. If you can vent the dryer externally do! If external venting is not an option then do what I do. Open the windows and let the air in as the dryer is running. If using a vented dryer without the venting its best to be home while its on just to make sure your place will not go up in flames. If you have to go out make sure your lint filter has been cleaned out, your dryer is not over full and there is plenty of air circulating the dryer. Of course when you can use nature’s natural drying system, the good old sun, then that is also a smart option!