A popular topic right now amongst homeowners or those renovating is what type of tumble dryer should I buy? There's a huge variety of types, brands and models and it can get very overwhelming.
If you are unsure which type of tumble dryer is right for you this wee guide from Callaghan’s Electrical will walk you through the options and help you make a confident and informed choice.
There are three main types of tumble dryers: Heat Pump, Condenser and Vented dryers.
Heat Pump Tumble Dryers
Heat pump tumble dryers reuse the hot air they generate in a continuous loop. Water gathers in a tank, but the hot air doesn’t escape and is reused.
Pros:
- Heat Pump Dryers use up to 50% less electricity than traditional vented or condenser dryers and therefore cost less to run in the long-term.
- Quieter than other types of tumble dryers.
- Drying at low temperatures is gentler on clothes, minimising shrinking and fabric damage.
- Easy installation, simply plug and play. No need to put against an external wall.
- No external venting required, making these dryers ideal for airtight homes.
Cons:
- More expensive to purchase than condenser or vented dryers. However, prices are coming down.
- Must be placed inside the home. Will not work in a cold area like a garage or shed.
- Can be slower to dry large loads of clothes.
Vented Tumble Dryers
Vented tumble dryers send hot air out through an external vent.
Pros:
- Budget friendly.
- They can also function in a garage/shed or be installed outside where it’s cold.
- Dry clothes quickly due to operating at a higher temperature than heat pump dryers.
Cons:
- As of July 2025, Vented Dryers are currently being phased out due to the latest EU guidelines. The last remaining stock is still available to buy at this time (June 2026) but won’t be for long.
- Drying at a higher temperature combined with the expulsion of hot air outside means the appliance uses significantly more energy.
- Higher drying temperatures are harsher on clothes.
- Must be placed near an external wall, limiting where you can put your dryer.
- External venting required, making these dryers unsuitable for airtight homes.
Condenser Tumble Dryers
Condenser tumble dryers condense hot air into water and store it in a tank, which can be emptied by the user.
Pros:
- Budget friendly.
- They can also function in a garage/shed or be installed outside where it’s cold.
- Dry clothes quickly due to operating at a higher temperature than heat pump dryers.
- Easy installation, simply plug and play. No need to put against an external wall.
Cons:
- As of July 2025, Condenser Dryers are currently being phased out due to the latest EU guidelines. The last remaining stock is still available to buy at this time (June 2026) but won’t be for long.
- Drying at a higher temperature combined with the expulsion of hot air means the appliance uses significantly more energy.
- Higher drying temperatures are harsher on clothes.
What type of tumble dryer is best for your garage?
The best tumble dryer to be placed in a garage is a vented dryer. Vented dryers work best in very cold areas like below 5°C. Condenser dryers can work in lower temperatures but work best in a warm area. Heat pump dryers do not work in cold areas.
What type of dryer is the most energy efficient?
All tumble dryers have an energy efficiency rating but heat pump dryers are typically the most energy efficient and will cost you less in the long run.
What type of dryer is the best for airtight homes?
The best type of tumble dryer for airtight homes is a heat pump dryer. Unlike vented models that exhaust moist air outside, or standard condenser dryers that can leak damp air into the room, heat pump dryers collect moisture into a removable tank which can be emptied.
Still unsure?
If you’re still unsure about what tumble dryer is right for you, feel free to contact our team who will be able to provide you with all the information you need.
Contact us:
- By phone or WhatsApp: +353 74 9128631
- By email: info@callaghanselectrical.com