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A few days ago, I and my family went out for a dryer shopping spree. The first dryer we were using, was a Whirlpool condenser dryer which lasted us for about a decade. As we used to use a condenser dryer, my eyes were focused on buying a heat pump this time. But my wife felt otherwise. No matter what I said, I could not convince her. My 10 years of experience as an appliance repair technician did not also convince her to buy a heat pump.
Throughout the shopping, I and my wife were in a heated argument regarding the two types of dryers. So, which one to choose between heat pump vs condenser dryer? If you want an energy-efficient dryer, then heat pump dryers are your best bet. Though they are a bit more expensive, their tons of features sure prove to be bang for the buck! But if gas outlets are a hassle for you, then condenser dryers might be just the ones for you.
So, which one should you buy? In this article, I will be guiding you through the pros and cons, features, and comparison of these two kinds of dryers.
My Overview Regarding Which One is Better
From my perspective, I prefer the heat pump dryer more. Heat pump dryers are far more capable and elegant when it comes to drying laundry. They also pack a larger capacity even though they cost more. But also speaking in favor of condenser dryers, their principal advantage is that they tend to be introduced anyplace and needn’t bother with being situated close to an entryway or window. So if you are searching for comfort maybe this is an ideal one for you.
Taking all things into consideration, I choose to go with heat pump dryers. They are a lot more durable compared to condenser dryers and are suited for heavy-duty tasks. They are also better for laundry. This is a great addition for not only me but my family as well.
- Width: 23.5" x Height: 33.25" x Depth: 25"
- Type: Front Load - Fuel Type: Electric - Capacity: 4 cu. ft.
- Energy Star: Yes - UL Listed - ADA compliance
Heat Pump Vs Condenser Dryer: Major Differences
They differ mainly in the way they concentrate warm air. Heat siphon dryers monitor and reuse hot air, reducing energy consumption when compared to condenser dryers.
| Heat Pump Dryers | Condenser Dryer | |
| Best for your laundry | Yes | No |
| Energy-efficient | Yes | No |
| Drain option | Condensation water tank | Condensation water tank |
| Dries quickly | No | No |
| Requires electrical outlet | Yes | Yes |
| Requires gas outlets | Yes | No |
| Diverse models | No | Yes |
| Cheaper upfront | No | Yes |
| Easy to fix | No | Yes |
Comparison Between A Heat Pump And Condenser Dryer
1. Maintenance of heat pump and electric dryer
Heat pump dryer
It’s critical to keep an eye on your heat pump dryer’s upkeep. The most important thing you can do is check for build-up progression regularly. To accomplish this, separate the dryer from the power supply and remove the bottom front board.
Condenser dryer
Maintaining a condenser dryer is very simple. Spritz a couple of old towels with white vinegar. To get rid of any lingering odors, place them in the tumble dryer and start a drying cycle. To avoid discoloration of garments, make sure the dryer’s walls are clean of bleach before putting any load in.
Winner: Condenser dryer
2. Operation of heat and condenser dryer
Heat pump dryer
A heat pump dryer provides the same amount of heat as a heated drier, but power is used to power the engines inside the machine. Heat pump dryers are planned to include a 110-volt socket as well as a gas connection, the latter of which can be pricey to install.
Condenser dryer
They function by condensing the steam inside the machine and changing it into water with the aid of outside air. This is gathered in a detachable container or tank located in the dryer’s upper left corner. When full, the tank may be readily removed and emptied into the sink.
Winner: Heat pump dryer
3. Installation of heat pump and condenser dryer
Heat pump dryer
It is possible to install heat pumps on your own once you have purchased them. This aspect isn’t technical and doesn’t require a license, but it will save time and money during installation if the unit is already in place when the qualified technician arrives.
Condenser dryer
First, be sure that you have enough space to accommodate the machine. This means getting out the tape measure and precisely measuring where you want to install the dryer before you get it home. Then, place your dryer next to the power socket and plug it in. It is that simple.
Winner: Heat pump dryer
- Width: 23.5" x Height: 33.25" x Depth: 25"
- Type: Front Load - Fuel Type: Electric - Capacity: 4 cu. ft.
- Energy Star: Yes - UL Listed - ADA compliance
4. Durability of heat pump and condenser dryer
Heat pump dryer
Heat pump dryers may not have as long of a life expectancy as condenser dryers. Heat pump dryers are also more difficult to repair. A break in a heat pump dryer will need a trip to the pros, which might be rather costly.
Condenser dryer
Ten years is the average lifespan for a condenser dryer. Updating your tumble dryer every ten years allows you to take advantage of new technologies and more energy-efficient heating techniques, potentially lowering your energy consumption and saving you money on your bills.
Winner: Condenser dryer
5. Capacity of heat pump and condenser dryers
Heat pump dryer
When compared to condenser dryers, heat pump dryers have a much larger capacity. Consistent heat and faster drying periods let private and commercial clients handle larger loads faster than expected, saving time and money in the long run.
Condenser dryer
The height and breadth of all models are the same, however, the depth varies depending on the drum size you pick. So, how deep does a condenser dryer usually go? Depending on the size of the drum, they might range from 46cm to 68cm.
Winner: Heat pump dryer
- PRODUCT DIMENSIONS: 23 5/8"W x 33 1/2"H x 25 5/8"D
- HEAT PUMP TECHNOLOGY: Samsung Heat Pump Dryer offers a more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and gentle way to dry your clothes; It uses a ‘refrigerant’ instead of electricity to heat the air and recycles the same air to avoid wasting energy
- 40 MINUTE DRYING: The 40' Express Cycle gets a small 2 lb load of clothes dry and ready to wear in just 40 minutes; Safely dry a mini load with much less waiting – dry the clothes you need, when you need them
6. Performance of heat pump and condenser dryer
Heat pump dryer
Heat pump dryers provide superior protection for clothing and textiles because they operate at a lower air temperature. They’re also better for the environment because they recycle the hot air they produce (which condenser models expel) back into the drum to keep the cycle continuing.
Another advantage of heat pump dryers is that they do not require venting because they recycle hot air and produce less heat than condenser dryers. As a result, you can put these dryers almost wherever in the house. If you live in an apartment, this is a great option.
Condenser dryer
But as condenser dryers create more heat to dry the load, they dry the load faster than heat pump dryers. However, they emit a lot of moisture during operation and should be positioned in rooms with sufficient ventilation.
They’re usually heavy-duty machines with a higher wet weight capacity, varying from 6kg to 10kg, and quieter operation. It’s ideal for large families and households.
Winner: Heat pump dryer
7. Cost of heat pump and condenser dryer
Heat pump
Heat pump dryers are more expensive to buy upfront than condenser dryers, however, this is readily offset by energy savings over time, as this is the most energy-efficient design of the two. Heat pump dryers cost on average $200 to $500 more to buy than condenser models, but this can be easily justified by the energy savings in the long term.
Condenser dryer
Condenser dryers are cheaper upfront and also require less money to keep them functional. On average, condenser dryers cost less than heat pump dryers on an average.
Winner: Condenser dryer
8. Energy efficiency of heat pump and condenser dryer
Heat pump dryer
Heat pump dryers are the most energy-efficient types of dryers on the market, thanks to their reheating and recycling process. Heat pump dryers consume around half the energy of condenser dryers per load.
Condenser dryer
Condenser dryers use approximately 3kWh per average load, while heat pump dryers use approximately 1.5kWh per load.
Winner: Heat pump dryer
9. Product Outlooks
Heat Pump Dryers
Heat-pump dryers are the most cost-effective in terms of operation. However, because they are the most expensive in terms of market pricing, they are more of an investment than a one-time buy. They’re especially good as a long-term solution for people who tumble-dry their garments frequently.
In the sense that they include a water tank, heat-pump dryers are comparable to conventional dryers. Heat pump dryers function by repurposing the heat they generate. They also don’t have a heating coil, unlike conventional dryers, and work similarly to refrigerators and air conditioners.
Condenser Dryer
The most common form of the dryer is a condenser dryer. They work by pumping air into the tumble drum over a heating coil. The hot, wet air is ejected as vapor and condensed as water in a container.
The main advantage of a condenser dryer is that it can be put almost anywhere in the house and does not require to be placed next to a door or window. So if convenience is important to you, condenser dryers are the dryers for you. But the setback is that you will have to drain the extracted water reservoir regularly.
My 2 Favorite Heat pump and condenser dryer Models
If you too are looking for the best heat dryers available on the market now, then don’t worry about it. I got it covered for you! Here is a list of the best dryers available right now:
1. Bosch Heat Pump Dryer WTW87NH1UC
The Bosch Heat Pump Dryer WTW87NH1UC may be the best-looking dryer on the market. The Bosch model might be the most ideal one for you in the event that you’re looking for a brilliant machine.
Features
- 14 drying modes.
- Washing of hands feature.
- Jeans, and bulky clothes mode.
- Can be controlled from any place in the house.
- Has a progressive self-cleaning condenser.
- Allows the saving of time.
- Dedicated gentle cycle
Advantages
- Energy-efficient
- Tons of installation options
- Dries clothes
Disadvantages
- Takes forever
- Complex controls
But if you find this dryer to be lacking in features, then I got just the right thing for you. Introducing, LG DLHC1455W! The LG DLHC1455W heat siphon dryer has an Energy Star rating of generally productive for the current year making it a decent worth. It has 14 cycle choices, including massive and enormous burdens, towels, and hot drying. It likewise has Wi-Fi for remote beginning and stops, diagnostics, and energy checking through LG’s ThinkQ application.
- Width: 23.5" x Height: 33.25" x Depth: 25"
- Type: Front Load - Fuel Type: Electric - Capacity: 4 cu. ft.
- Energy Star: Yes - UL Listed - ADA compliance
2. Whirlpool WHD560CHW
With a 27-inch width and a 7.4 cu. ft capacity, the Whirlpool WHD560CHW model is the greatest of all condenser dryers. However, it is on the higher end of the price spectrum. Just keep in mind that it will take up more space than you anticipated.
Features
- Have multiple sensors that action the dampness.
- Has a temperature sensor to monitor your garments.
- Can change the drying cycle.
- Kink monitor choice that keeps tumbled things sans wrinkle.
- Can promptly dry huge and cumbersome pieces of clothing.
- Has committed cycles for these.
- Provides child lock feature.
Advantages
- Ventless
- Large drum size
- Energy efficient
Disadvantages
- Expensive
- Long drying times
But this dryer is for people who have a large family and needs different modes of cycles. If you are not one of those, then this ought to suit you perfectly – Beko DTLCE70051W 7Kg Condenser dryer! This dryer will suit all your needs. Packed with multiple features, the 7kg drum will fit all your laundry in one go.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is a dryer of a heat pump better than a condenser dryer?
Personally, heat pump dryers are better than condenser dryers. Though they are more expensive, heat pump dryers are cost-effective and efficient. They are also eco-friendly.
2. Which is a better heat pump or a condenser tumble dryer?
Heat pump dryers are better than condenser tumble dryers as they are more efficient and cost-effective. Also, heat pump dryers are better for your laundry.
3. Are heat pump dryers worth the extra money?
Heat pump dryers are worth the extra bucks as they make up for it by being efficient and cost-effective. Also, these dryers are considered a long-term investment, making their builds robust and long-lasting.
4. Are heat pump dryers better?
For many people, heat pump dryers are better than condenser dryers and even vent dryers.
5. What are the disadvantages of a heat pump?
Heat pump dryers are slower than condenser dryers and even vent dryers.
6. Which type of dryer is best?
For many people, heat pump dryers are considered better than the rest.
Conclusion
Dryer shopping was like a war between me and my wife. After much suffering and toils, I could convince my wife to make an investment with me in a new heat pump dryer. As we were looking for a long-lasting dryer, I could convince my wife to buy a dryer from a heat pump as they are longer lasting than other types of dryers. That being said, the one we bought was the Bosch Heat Pump Dryer WTW87NH1UC. Being one of the best-looking dryers out there, the 14 drying modes was the deal breaker for us as we have a pretty large family.
All these aside, I and my wife’s heat pump vs condenser dryer heated argument was the most memorable. But I am sure that she and my whole family will surely be satisfied with this purchase!
