Dryers

Whether you’re settling into a new home or your old dryer just sputtered out, finding a new dryer doesn’t need to be complicated.

Simply measure your space (leave at least 1 inch on the sides and 6 inches in the back for installation) and take stock of your layout (mind the door swing).

Should I Get A Gas or Electric Dryer?

Basically, it all comes to your dryer hook-up to determine this choice. But if you’re considering converting to one or the other, keep in mind that conversion costs can be more expensive than the cost of a new machine.

Did you just find out your dryer hook-up is for gas? Along with the gas line hook-up, gas dryers simply need a 110/115 V outlet (just like what your toaster uses) to get going.

Hooked up for electricity? Electric dryers need a specific kind of outlet in order to run efficiently: either a 3- or 4-prong 240V outlet.

What Are Ventless Dryers?

Excellent question; ventless dryers are more energy-efficient and allow for ductless installation—you can basically install it anywhere.

Heat pump dryers are the most energy-efficient ventless dryer—they use 50 percent less energy! These compact dryers use a refrigerant system with hot and cold coils to create heat, release moisture, and raise the temperature. The best benefit is that they don’t heat up your laundry room, so you can do the laundry in comfort.

Condenser dryers are another type of ventless dryer that turns heat and steam into water by pulling outside air in through a condenser. These use lower temperatures to dry your laundry, which makes your clothes last longer.

Keep in mind that both heat pump and condenser dryers have extended drying times and need either a holding tank or a drainage hose to eliminate excess water (remember to empty out the holding tank after every load or two).

Washer dryer combos also use ventless drying, either with an air pump or condenser system.

What Size Dryer Do I Need?

Trying to decide between a compact, standard, or super-capacity dryer? This is where those measurements come into play.

Compact dryers are about 24 inches wide, with average capacities ranging from 3.5 to 4.0 cu. ft. (you need at least 4.0 cu. ft. to dry a king-size comforter).

Standard, or traditional dryers are about 27 inches wide (others range from 25 -29 inches) and have a 7.3 cu. ft. capacity.

Super-capacity dryers are about 29 inches wide, with capacities ranging from 7-8 cu. ft.

What Features Should I Look For?

Besides the basics like moisture sensors, timed dry, and extended tumble, keep an eye out for these features:

• Top-mount lint vents and side-mount doors are for ease of operation—less bending over!
• Top-down doors provide a shelf that catches any dropped, clean clothes.
• Drum lights and silent operation let you work quietly in a sleepy house.
• Drum racks help you dry your delicates without the tumble.
• NSF ratings and sanitize cycles power away germs and bacteria.

Have more questions we didn’t cover, like dryer maintenance or pre-installation tips? give us a call —our family is happy to help yours in any way we can, because we make shopping here all about you!