A. Type<\/h3>\n
Here\u2019s a quick summary of the three types of tumble dryers you\u2019ll find in the market.<\/p>\n
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- Vented tumble dryers: <\/strong>These dryers exhaust moist air from the drum outside through a vent. The vent hose can pass through a window, wall or some other opening. Perfect for a garage!<\/li>\n
- Condenser tumble dryers: <\/strong>Instead of venting moist air outside, condenser dryers convert the water vapor collected from the clothes into liquid water. The water collects into a tank that you need to empty regularly.<\/li>\n
- Heat pump tumble dryers: <\/strong>These are the most energy-efficient tumble dryers. They condensate water into a tank then reheat the air for re-use. Heat pump dryers use about half the energy of condenser dryers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
You\u2019ll notice that all our top picks below are vented tumble dryers. They are the best since it\u2019s easy to vent the dryer in a garage.<\/p>\n
Another big advantage of vented tumble dryers is their low cost. A vented tumble dryer can be half or less than half the price of a similar-capacity condenser or heat pump dryer.<\/p>\n
Vented tumble dryers are not just cheaper to buy; they are also cheaper to run since they don\u2019t need to convert water vapour into liquid water. They simply vent the moist air outside (however, heat pump dryers are still more efficient than vented dryers are).<\/p>\n
Additionally, vented dryers are easier to maintain since you don\u2019t have to worry about emptying a water tank. They also carry a minimal risk of blowing damp air inside compared to condenser and heat pump dryers.<\/p>\n
B. Capacity<\/h3>\n
The capacity of a tumble dryer refers to the weight of clothes the drum can dry in one go. The ideal capacity depends on your family size.<\/p>\n
For individuals and small families, a 2-5kg tumble dryer is sufficient. For bigger families, get a tumble dryer with a capacity of at least 6kg.<\/p>\n
If you often wash bulky items like duvets and pillows, get an 8-10kg tumble dryer.<\/p>\n
C. Size<\/h3>\n
While a garage has the advantage of space, it\u2019s still important to make sure the dryer will fit into the allotted space without affecting movement or getting in the way of other tools and appliances.<\/p>\n
Check the dimensions of the dryer before you order it. Keep in mind that you\u2019ll need to locate the dryer close to a wall or window where it\u2019ll be vented outside.<\/p>\n
A full size tumble dryer with a capacity of 7kg to 10kg measures 85cm high, 60cm wide and 60cm deep.<\/p>\n
If you don\u2019t have the space to fit a full size dryer, you can buy a mini tumble dryer. Some are small enough to place on a table top.<\/p>\n
Note, however, that small tumble dryers tend to be less energy-efficient and lack many of the bells and whistles found in full size dryers.<\/p>\n
D. Programs<\/h3>\n
Built-in programs on the control panel make it easier to select the best settings for drying different types of clothes and different load amounts.<\/p>\n
Cheaper tumble dryers have basic programs that allow you to select different heat levels such as low heat and high heat.<\/p>\n
Others let you choose the type of drying you want: iron dry leaves the clothes slightly damp for easy ironing, cupboard dry ensures the clothes come out ready for storage and extra-dry is ideal for large items like pillows.<\/p>\n
Advanced tumble dryers have advanced programs based on the type of clothes you are drying and the treatment you\u2019d like.<\/p>\n
Some models can have as many as 10 programs or more for cottons, synthetics, wool, shirts, jeans and creases.<\/p>\n
E. Manual vs. Sensor Drying<\/h3>\n
With cheaper tumble dryers, it is up to you to determine how much time the load needs to dry. Some dryers will provide some guidelines based on fabric type and load amount, but there\u2019s still some guesswork involved.<\/p>\n
Though manual tumble dryers are cheaper, they have a couple of downsides.<\/p>\n
One, you can underestimate drying time. When you go to take your clothes, you find they are still damp. Two, you can overestimate drying time, which wastes more energy and can damage your clothes because of over drying.<\/p>\n
Sensor dryers are pricier but more convenient. Instead of setting a timer, the dryer uses a moisture sensor to detect when laundry is sufficiently dry.<\/p>\n
The main downside of tumble dryers with a sensor is that the sensor may not always be accurate. Sometimes you\u2019ll open the door only to find that clothes are still damp.<\/p>\n
But if you get a properly functioning dryer, the sensor can save energy and prevent over drying.<\/p>\n
F. Reverse Action<\/h3>\n
A tumble dryer with reverse action has a drum that can spin in both directions. Reverse action improves drying performance and reduces drying time, which saves energy.<\/p>\n
It also reduces creases and tangling.<\/p>\n
Read also:<\/strong> How To Choose The Best Washing Machine Under \u00a3300?<\/a><\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Other Considerations<\/h3>\n
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- Easy to use control panel: <\/strong>Make sure the display is backlit and easy to use without having to bend. The buttons should also be easy to operate. We particularly love touch buttons for their ease of use especially for disabled persons and those with health problems like arthritis.<\/li>\n
- Delay timer: <\/strong>A delay timer lets you set the dryer to start a drying cycle at a specific time such as when you are away from home or at night when electricity cost is lower.<\/li>\n
- Smart features: <\/strong>Some tumble dryers have a wireless Bluetooth, NFC or Wi-Fi connection, allowing you to monitor and control certain features from an app on your smartphone.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Best Tumble Dryers for Garage: Reviews<\/h2>\n
1. Hoover Link HLV10LG Vented Tumble Dryer, 10Kg<\/h3>\n
![](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41K61STsZAL.jpg\")
<\/a>\nCLICK TO CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON<\/a><\/p>\n
With a drum capacity of 10kg, the Hoover Link HLV10LG is the best vented tumble dryer for large families.<\/p>\n
You can dry your entire family\u2019s laundry at the same time and it\u2019s also handy for large items like comforters and blankets.<\/p>\n
One of the best features of the Hoover Link dryer is the variety of programs. There are 14 of them in total or wool, cotton, small loads, extra-large loads, pre-iron drying and so on.<\/p>\n
The Hoover Link HLV10LG uses a sensor to determine how long the dryer runs. As soon as it detects the clothes are dry, it shuts down.<\/p>\n
You can also set a manual timer if you want more control over the drying cycle. And if you want the dryer to run at a specific time, there\u2019s a delay timer on the control panel.<\/p>\n
Additional features and settings are available in the Hoover Wizard app. The dryer uses NFC technology to connect to your smartphone.<\/p>\n
The Hoover Link HLV10LG measures 85cm high x 60cm wide x 60cm deep. It has a C energy rating.<\/p>\n
What we like about it:<\/h4>\n
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- Large capacity.<\/li>\n
- Smart features.<\/li>\n
- Sensor drying \u2013 saves time and energy.<\/li>\n
- Versatile drying programs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n2. Hotpoint V4D01P Tumble Dryer, 4kg<\/h3>\n
![](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31XACVZBbKL.jpg\")
<\/a>\nCLICK TO CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON<\/a><\/p>\n
The Hotpoint V4D01P Tumble Dryer is a great choice for couples and small families. The 4kg capacity drum can fit about four complete outfits.<\/p>\n
This is a budget tumble dryer so it doesn\u2019t have many of the bells and whistles you\u2019ll find on pricier models.<\/p>\n
The upside of this is that the control panel is utterly simple and easy to use. There isn\u2019t even a screen; only a large knob for time selection.<\/p>\n
The Hotpoint V4D01P lacks a moisture sensor, meaning you have to set the drying timer manually. Thankfully, the control panel has a helpful guide for the time to set based on load size and type of fabric.<\/p>\n
The guide covers acrylics, synthetics and cottons. If you have wool, cashmere or silk clothes, you have to guess the safest drying time.<\/p>\n
A reverse action drum dries laundry in less time with little to no tangling and creasing.<\/p>\n
The Hotpoint V4D01P measures 69cm high, 49cm wide and 48cm deep. It\u2019s a good choice if you don\u2019t have the space for a full size tumble dryer.<\/p>\n
It has a front vent and comes with a hose. The hose is long enough to stretch out of the window when the dryer is on.<\/p>\n
The Hotpoint V4D01P tumble dryer has a Class C energy rating.<\/p>\n
What we like about it:<\/h4>\n
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- Space saver.<\/li>\n
- Perfect for couples and small families.<\/li>\n
- Reverse action shortens drying time and reduces creasing.<\/li>\n
- Easy to use control panel.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n3. Cookology Mini Tabletop Black Compact Vented Tumble Dryer, 2.5kg<\/h3>\n
![](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41wSSiiPINL.jpg\")
<\/a>\nCLICK TO CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON<\/a><\/p>\n
If you are short on floor space in the garage, you can still use a vented tumble dryer \u2013 you just need to think smaller.<\/p>\n
We recommend the Cookology table top vented tumble dryer. It is a mini dryer measuring 58.5cm high, 49.5cm wide and 41.5cm deep. A venting hose is included.<\/p>\n
Considering the compact size, it\u2019s not surprising that the Cookology dryer has a drum capacity of just 2.5kg.<\/p>\n
We recommend the Cookology mini table top dryer for individuals and couples. You don\u2019t even need to have a garage to use it. You can set it up on the kitchen countertop and vent it through the window.<\/p>\n
And if you don\u2019t have a table or counter to place it on, you can mount it on the wall. Mounting brackets are included in the package.<\/p>\n
Note that the Cookology table top dryer is heavy, despite the small size. It weighs 17kg, so you\u2019ll need help lifting it onto a surface or mounting it on the wall.<\/p>\n
As you\u2019d expect from a mini dyer, features are basic. Don\u2019t expect a dozen programs or sensor drying.<\/p>\n
The control panel consists of a single knob with which you select an operation mode and set the timer. There are four modes: hot for normal drying, warm for gentler drying, cool to prevent creasing after clothes dry and air-dry for giving clothes a refreshing feel.<\/p>\n
The Cookology table top dryer has a Class C energy rating.<\/p>\n
What we like about it:<\/h4>\n
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- Compact \u2013 perfect for small garages and spaces.<\/li>\n
- Can be placed on a table top or mounted.<\/li>\n
- Multiple drying modes.<\/li>\n
- Quieter than most tumble dryers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n4. Candy CSV9DF Freestanding Vented Tumble Dryer, 9kg<\/h3>\n
![](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31WgnN7wQEL.jpg\")
<\/a>\nCLICK TO CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON<\/a><\/p>\n
The Candy CSV9DF freestanding tumble dryer is another good choice for large families. The 9kg drum can handle an extra-large load of laundry and is also ideal for bulky items such as pillows and duvets.<\/p>\n
This is a sensor dryer, so you don\u2019t have to guess the right drying times for different types of clothes.<\/p>\n
The Candy CSV9DF has 16 programs with four of them being managed by the moisture sensor. The four sensor dry programs are ready to iron, dry hanger, dry wardrobe and extra dry.<\/p>\n
Other drying programs you can select on the control panel include anti-crease, shirts, wool finish, sports, jeans and baby among others.<\/p>\n
The Candy CSV9DF also comes with a delay start timer that you can set for 3, 6 or 9 hours.<\/p>\n
It also has smart NFC functionality, which allows you to control and monitor the washing machine from an app on your smartphone.<\/p>\n
The Candy CSV9DF tumble dryer has a class C energy rating and comes with a 10-year parts warranty (1-year warranty for labour).<\/p>\n
What we like about it:<\/h4>\n
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- Large drum capacity.<\/li>\n
- Smart NFC functionality.<\/li>\n
- Multiple programs.<\/li>\n
- Convenient and energy-saving sensor drying.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
\n5. Amica ADV7CLCW Vented Tumble Dryer, 7kg<\/h3>\n
![](\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/415ROQLUbUL.jpg\")
<\/a>\n
- Delay timer: <\/strong>A delay timer lets you set the dryer to start a drying cycle at a specific time such as when you are away from home or at night when electricity cost is lower.<\/li>\n
- Condenser tumble dryers: <\/strong>Instead of venting moist air outside, condenser dryers convert the water vapor collected from the clothes into liquid water. The water collects into a tank that you need to empty regularly.<\/li>\n