Things to Consider When Buying a Dryer

Whether you're replacing an aging dryer to reap energy-saving benefits or buying your very first clothes dryer, there are a few things to consider in terms of dryer type, style and installation requirements. These dryer buying tips can help you decide what type and size of dryer is best for your needs. Have you considered saving space and buying compact laundry appliances? And this may be the perfect time to upgrade your washer as there could be purchase savings when buying a set of laundry appliances.

If you're shopping for a dryer there are a few things to consider like what the must-have features are, and what convenience options you may also want to have. Be prepared before you head out, know what you want and your shopping time will be greatly reduced.

Gas or Electric Dryer

Gas dryers do save on electricity costs, but require an installed gas line to the home and special installation. If gas is available, the outlay for a gas model may be a good option if your dryer usage is high. An electric model costs less, also requires installation and varies in energy costs depending on use. Both require proper venting to the outside. Always follow manufacturer's installation recommendations.

Capacity: Full Size or Compact Dryer Models

There are two capacity styles, 25" to 29" wide full, regular or oversize size dryers with around 7 cu.ft. drums, and 24" compact models with around 3 cu.ft. of drying capacity. Two things influence which style is best for you, space to install the dryer, and your drying needs. For a large family with sufficient laundry room space - choose an oversize dryer to dry large loads quickly. For a couple in a small home, a compact set may be sufficient.

Performance Considerations

Performance deals with how well and how quickly the dryer will dry your clothes. Efficiency is great performance at low operating cost. Choose a high performance and efficient model by selecting a dryer with moisture or dryness sensors, wrinkle-free options for less ironing, temperature options, and the lowest possible Energy Guide Rating.

Must-Have Features for Dryers

Moisture or dryness sensors that adjust the drying time required, or allows you to custom select Regular, More or Less Dry, have similar benefits, reducing drying time and energy use. Temperature controls can allow for High Quick Dry for some fabrics, and Low or Fluff for delicates. A perma press or press care setting provides a cool-down period at the end of the cycle, this reduces wrinkles, saving you ironing time. A drum light is a must for people with low vision, and is not always a standard feature.

Convenience Features That Are Nice to Have

Lint filter position - on the top or inside the door? Choose by preference for easy maintenance. Quiet Package, how important is it to you. This will depend on where the dryer will be located? Extra options and cycles like Preset, Speed Dry, More, Less, are nice to have. A dryer rack is handy if you lay out items to dry like sweaters or sneakers. Porcelain or Stainless Steel drum - no difference in performance, but stainless eliminates risk of rusting and looks very stylish.

Price Considerations and Accessibility

Dryers range from $300 to over $1000, and one with only the must-have features will generally cost around $400 to $600. High tech stylish models with glass doors, stainless steel drums, enhanced control panel and additional cycles will be in the highest range. If cost is a consideration - choose features based on what matters to you, then add more features from there to fit your budget. This is one area where accessibility doesn't cost you more, it is better to purchase less-expensive models with knobs and buttons instead of high-tech models with flat pannels or touch screen controls.

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