10 Ways To Save Money When Tumble Drying

heat pump tumble dryer

Typically, a tumble dryer is one of the most expensive appliances in the home to run. However, because it can dry clothes quickly, it is a must-have for many households, especially during winter. Follow these ten top tips to ensure you save as much money as possible with your tumble dryer.

1. Choose an energy efficient model

Most tumble dryers have a C-class efficiency rating. However, they can go as low as G which is the lowest efficiency. Where possible aim for an energy rating of A to A+++. These are the most energy efficient models, and while they may cost more to purchase, to begin with, they can save you money in the long-term.  In fact, the most energy efficient models can cost just £23 per year to run while the least efficient may cost around £140.

2. Avoid washer-dryers

Typically, washer-dryers are less energy efficient than standalone tumble dryers.  In regard to the average cost, a washer dryer will cost £75 per year to dry clothes while a normal tumble dryer will cost £67 per year. Obviously, the most efficient way to dry clothes is on a line outside. However, this isn’t always easy, especially in the winter months.

3. Choose heat pumps

Gas-vented and heat pump dryers are more energy efficient than regular condenser tumble dryers and conventional vented dryers.

4. Fill wisely

You can maximise the energy efficiency of your tumble dryer, by making sure always to fill the tumble dryer with the maximum load. It is much more inefficient to only half-fill the dryer, so try to wait until you have a full load.

5. Increase the spin

By increasing the spin cycle in your washing machine, you can significantly reduce the time it takes to tumble-dry the garments, which can save on your energy bills.

6. Correct positioning

Tumble-dryers can overheat in warm rooms, make sure only to use your tumble-dryer in a well-ventilated room to keep your tumble dryer working efficiently.

7. Clean out lint

Tumble dryers work best when they are free from lint. Make sure to clean out the filters after every use and conduct a regular deep clean of the tumble dryer too. By having a tumble dryer free from lint, the air can circulate freely shortening the time it takes for clothes to dry.

8. Make the most of sunny days

Where possible, give your tumble dryer the day off while you dry your clothes outside. This is only suitable on sunny days, so make the most of them and see the difference in your energy bills.

9. Detangle before drying

It can be tempting to put the ball of washing straight out the washing machine and into the tumble dryer. However, by separating and detangling all of the items, you allow more air to get between the items, speeding up the drying time. Large knots of clothes take a long time to dry.

10. Keep pillowcases and duvets fastened

Do you regularly find a damp t-shirt or sock lingering in a pillowcase or duvet after a wash? You can prevent this and ensure efficient drying of every item by making sure that pillowcases and duvets are sealed before putting them in the washing machine and then the dryer.