Condenser Dryers

A Condenser Dryer generates quite a bit of heat inside the drum to finish relatively quickly. Moisture is extracted from wet clothes, condensed into water and collected in the internal container to emptying after each cycle. You can alternatively use a supplied or separate drain hose to have the water drained which is recommended by some brands to avoid emptying mid cycle on big loads.

Although they don’t need venting to the outside like a Vented Dryer does as they generate a lot of hot air and moisture, they can still expel some hot air so you’ll need ventilation inside the Laundry. Standalone condensers have a capacity around 8kg from top brands like ASKO and Miele and they can also be found in Washer Dryer Combos from brands like Fisher & Paykel.

Many have sensors that automatically stop the cycle once moisture is no longer detected inside to prevent overheating, as well as reverse tumbling for less bunching during a cycle.

A condenser dryer removes moisture from clothes without needing external ventilation, making it ideal for apartments and homes without venting options. It works by circulating warm air inside the drum to evaporate moisture from the fabrics. This moist air then passes through a heat exchanger, where it cools, causing the water vapour to condense into liquid. The collected water is either stored in a removable tank or drained away automatically.

Since condenser dryers do not expel hot, humid air, they help maintain indoor air quality and are energy-efficient, especially when combined with sensor technology that adjusts drying times. Some models also feature reverse tumbling to reduce wrinkles and even heat distribution. While they may take slightly longer to dry clothes compared to vented dryers, they offer flexibility in placement and gentler drying on fabrics. For a better comparison on which ones to buy, a Dryer Guide will help you compare the best options.

Condenser and Heat Pump Dryers cannot be wall mounted as only Vented Dryers can due to lack of back ventilation, they can either sit Freestanding or Stacked above a Front Load Washing Machine using a stacking kit (sold separately). Stacking is a great way to save space in the Laundry, provided any existing cabinetry doesn’t get in the way.

That is why Condenser Dryers are ideally suited to accompany a matching Front Load Washer, whether stacked or sitting side by side under a bench, bringing seamlessness to the Laundry. Find a Washing Machine to match any Condenser Dryer from brands like LG and Fisher & Paykel.

It’s best to have a Condenser Dryer living in the Laundry for Washing & Drying convenience, but if it's needed elsewhere, make sure that room is well ventilated and only run small loads so you don’t need to rely on a drain. Just make sure to empty out the condenser container after loads finish.

Condenser Dryers cost more to run compared to Heat Pump Dryers. Comparing Condenser versus Vented Dryers, both are around on par with the majority of models on a 2 Star Energy Rating, however there is greater drum capacity in a Condenser (8kg) than Vented (around 4.5 to 6.5kg), so when viewed that way they can be more cost effective.

If you’re not using your Dryer that often, then go for the one that suits your laundry set up and your living arrangements. For example for renters Condenser Dryers are great as there's no need to organise venting. Always use the max spin speed on your Washer where possible to cut down on Drying time.

Remember to compare Dryers of the same capacity to gauge what the energy efficiency is like, and estimate what the average annual running cost will be by referring to the Australian Government’s Energy Rating website.

No, condenser dryers don’t require external ventilation, making them a versatile choice for apartments, townhouses, and homes without a vented laundry setup. Unlike vented dryers, which expel hot, damp air outside, a condenser dryer extracts moisture from clothes and collects it in a removable water tank or drains it through a hose. This helps prevent humidity buildup and makes installation simple, as there’s no need for a venting system. Check more of the Best Dryer Deals that will save you money and still enjoy maximum convenience.

However, condenser dryers still release some warm air into the room, so it’s best to use them in a well-ventilated area to prevent excessive heat or condensation. If your laundry space is small or lacks airflow, opening a door or window during operation can help maintain a comfortable temperature.

For an even more energy-efficient and low-humidity option, consider a Heat Pump Dryers. These models recycle warm air, making them gentler on clothes while significantly reducing electricity usage. Heat pump dryers are ideal for homes where managing heat output and energy costs is a priority.

Condenser dryers are more energy-efficient than vented dryers, but they still consume more electricity than Heat Pump Dryers. Unlike vented models, which continuously expel hot air, condenser dryers retain heat for more efficient drying, but they still require higher temperatures to operate, increasing energy consumption over time.

Many modern condenser dryers come with sensor drying technology, which automatically adjusts cycle length based on moisture levels. This prevents over drying, protects fabrics, and reduces unnecessary power use. Some models also feature eco-friendly drying modes, which use lower temperatures to minimise energy consumption while still delivering effective drying performance.

If you need to cut down on electricity costs, a Heat Pump Dryer is the most energy-efficient choice. These models recycle warm air instead of releasing it, reducing energy use by up to 50% compared to traditional condenser dryers. While they take slightly longer to dry clothes, they are gentler on fabrics and help lower household energy bills in the long run.

To compare energy efficiency across different models, visit the Australian Government’s Energy Rating website. Checking star ratings can help you choose a dryer that balances performance, energy use, and long-term savings.

The main difference between condenser dryers and heat pump dryers lies in how they process heat and remove moisture. While both are ventless options, they operate differently in terms of energy efficiency, drying speed, and fabric care.

• Condenser Dryer – Extracts moisture from clothes and collects it in a water tank or drains it away. These dryers operate at higher temperatures, drying clothes faster but using more electricity. They’re a great choice if you need quick drying and don’t have external ventilation.

• Heat Pump Dryer – Recycles warm air using low-temperature drying technology, making it far more energy-efficient. This method is gentler on fabrics, helping to prevent shrinkage and extending the lifespan of your clothes. While heat pump dryers take longer to dry, they use significantly less power, reducing running costs over time.

If you need faster drying times and minimal humidity in your home, a Condenser Clothes Dryer is a reliable option. However, if energy savings and fabric care are your priority, a Heat Pump Dryer is the better option.

Heat Pump Dryers are great for regular use as they use little power, relying on a unique set of technologies like refrigerant to create and evenly distribute warm air, saving over time to offset the higher initial cost. They also reheat and recycle the same air back into the drum. If you're drying infrequently, a Condenser Dryer may suit the purpose better as they're typically about half the cost of a Heat Pump Drier.

While Condenser Dryers push out some hot air, Heat Pump Dryers (also known as Heat Pump Condenser Dryers) omit none and don’t require any ventilation whatsoever, so they can be placed anywhere including a cupboard. They also condense water into a condenser container for emptying and can be set up to be drained too, depending on where you place the Dryer.

Heat Pump Dryers usually take longer to dry but they’re gentler on clothes. However, many Condenser Dryers come with an included drying rack for extra care, while brands like ASKO's Condenser Dryer has the same ‘Soft Drum’ as in their Heat Pump Dryers to help cushion the load.

When choosing a condenser clothes dryer, it’s important to consider the features that best suit your needs. Here are some of the leading brands known for their performance, efficiency, and innovation:

• Westinghouse – A reliable and affordable option, Westinghouse condenser dryers are built for everyday use, offering easy-to-use settings and solid performance.

• Electrolux – Known for advanced drying technology, Electrolux models often include sensor drying to protect fabrics and reverse tumbling to reduce wrinkles.

• Bosch – Designed for efficiency and durability, Bosch condensing dryers come with self-cleaning condensers and anti-vibration technology for quiet operation.

• LG – With heat exchanger technology and dual inverter motors, LG dryers provide faster drying times with lower energy consumption.

• Fisher & Paykel – A premium choice for those who want gentle fabric care, Fisher & Paykel condenser dryers offer precise moisture control and custom drying options for delicates.

To find the right size for your home, explore Small Dryers for compact spaces, Medium Dryers for standard household loads, or Large Dryers for bigger families.