Not all electric dryers are created equal. Some dryers have changed and evolved through time to cater to consumer needs. Apart from drying efficiency, there are still a lot of features to look for when choosing an electric dryer for your needs. This guide will help you choose an ideal clothes dryer to suit your needs.
Electric Dryer Cost and Consumption
Electric dryers are generally cheaper compared to gas dryers. They usually need a 240-volt outlet in order to function effectively. According to statistics, drying clothes using an electrical-operated dryer costs around 30 to 40 cents per load. An average American household usually have two to five loads each week. Based on these figures, average electric consumption would be around 35 cents to $1.75 per week for clothes drying.
Moisture Sensor
The purpose of a moisture sensor is to help you save on time and energy consumption when drying clothes. It can also help preserve your clothes since over drying can damage fabrics and can shrink clothes. To determine if a specific unit has one, check the product manual or the product website. Sometimes, the product’s label or controls do not indicate features such as thermostat or moisture sensor.
Capacity is not that Important
There are different types of electric dryers according to capacity. Most manufacturers describe them as large, extra-large, super or super plus. If your typical wash load mostly consists of clothing items, almost any type of dryer will do. Full sized dryers usually have a capacity of 6 to 7 ½ cubic feet. This is enough to dry a regular wash load of clothes. However, if your load regularly consists of heavy items such as beddings, comforters and thick blankets, it would be best to use full sized dryers with super plus capacity.
Controls do not Directly Affect the Drying Performance
Mechanical dials can be found mostly in low priced dryers, whereas high-end dryers usually have digital or electronic controls. However, it does not matter whichever you choose, as controls do not directly affect the efficiency of an electric dryer. In addition, drying racks can make the unit more efficient when it comes to drying non-clothing items such as tennis shoes and ball caps. Most consumers find that they keep the shape of delicate clothing items such as padded and under wired bras as well.
Consider the Unit’s Features and Added Options
Most dryers have the following general features – manual timer or automatic drying cycles, temperature ranges and specific fabric options such as permanent press. More high-end dryers have additional features such as delicate drying. If there is no budget for a more sophisticated model with a delicate drying cycle feature, try replacing with permanent press option and shorten the drying time. Stainless steel drums do not dry clothes faster than any other types of drum dryer. Also, consider a more quiet dryer especially if it would be placed near bedrooms or the kitchen area.
Size of the Unit versus the Washroom Floor Area
In terms of size, dryers usually have three available – full sized, space saving or compact and a two-in-one washer-dryer. Full sized units measure between 27 and 29 inches in width. Space-saving dryers measure 24 inches or lesser. Two-in-one washer dryer units have limited space for both dryer and washer area. Front load dryers can be stacked and can save a lot of space compared to top load dryers.
No matter what options you choose, always keep in mind the safety in operating an electric dryer. Proper maintenance and thorough cleaning play an important role in keeping an efficient dryer. Pay particular attention to lint trapped inside the filter as it accounts to as much as 7,000 cases of fire in households reported annually.
