Vented Clothes Dryer Buying Guide

What size do I need?

This table will provide a rough guide to sizing:

Most vented dryers range from 3kg to 9kg of wet weight capacity. Remember to never over-fill your dryer - not only will this decrease its efficiency, it could create a fire hazard.

Before you buy, we strongly recommend that you read the product information closely to make sure that the size of the machine will suit your requirements.

Venting options

Basic dryer models will only give you one venting option - through the front of the machine. This option is fine if your laundry has an inbuilt exhaust fan or a window - otherwise you will find that the room becomes hot and damp whenever the dryer is in use.

Selected models give you the option of directing the vented air directly out of a window by using a venting kit. You might need to purchase the venting kit at the time you buy the dryer - please contact our Customer Support Team on 1300 000 500 for assistance.

Alternatively, you could consider a condenser clothes dryer, which works by extracting moisture from your damp laundry and then draining it away as condensed water. For more information, please read our Condenser Clothes Dryer Buying Guide.

Will it fit inside my laundry?

Good question! Before you make a purchase, please:

• Carefully measure the space where your new dryer will be positioned
• Take into consideration the space required for the door to open
• Measure the width of the doors/corridors leading into your laundry

You may have found the best clothes dryer in the universe, but if you can't get it into your laundry, it's of no use to you. All dryers are different - therefore you always need to measure before you buy.

How long will it take to dry a load?

The length taken to dry a load will depend on the weight of the damp clothes. The heavier and wetter the fabric, the longer the drying cycle will take. The size and efficiency of your dryer are two features which will affect cycle times - but generally speaking, the more room inside the drum, the faster your washing will dry.

What features do I need?

The following glossary will provide a brief overview of the features to look out for when purchasing a dryer:

Energy ratings

The more stars, the more energy efficient the appliance. While an energy-efficient dryer will cost you more to buy upfront, the recuperated savings will end up making the initial expense worthwhile.

If energy efficiency is one of your key requirements, you should consider investing in a heat pump dryer. These dryers use state-of-the-art technology to give you excellent drying results with the minimum amount of energy consumption.

Auto-sensing

Some dryers include auto-sensing technology, which is able to automatically stop the drying cycle once it senses that the clothes are dry. Not only does this feature help to protect your clothes from the damaging aspects of over-drying, it also helps to save electricity.

Lint filter

Look for a dryer with an easy-to-access lint filter. For best results, the lint filter should be emptied before every load - otherwise you will reduce the efficiency of the machine and run the risk of a fire.

Electronic display

If you get a condenser dryer with an electronic display, you will be able to see at a glance how much time is remaining in the cycle, and when the lint filter and water container need to be emptied.

Programs

Before you make a decision, figure out what you want from your new dryer. If you hate ironing for instance, look for a model that includes an anti-crease feature. Or if you want to dry sportswear, look for a dryer with a special sports program.

Dimensions

Always measure before you buy! Not all clothes dryers are the same size.

Read more at our blog!

How to choose a clothes dryer: buying tips

Laundry in the winter: tips and tricks

Tips for laundry maintenance

And remember, you can call our Customer Support Centre 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Just give us a bell on: 1300 000 500 to speak to an appliance expert.