Best heat pump tumble dryers

A heat pump tumble dryer is one of the most energy-efficient models on the market. Instead of constantly creating new heat, it recycles warm air to reduce energy use while it dries your clothes.

If you run your dryer often, then a heat pump model is well worth buying. They usually cost a tad more upfront, but since they're cheaper to run than most vented and condenser models, you'll save more on bills in the long run.

Yes, heat pump models are generally cheaper to run than vented or condenser models because they recycle warm air instead of constantly creating new heat. That means you'll save a few pennies when it comes to covering your utility bills.

Usually, yes. Since heat pump tumble dryers use lower temperatures to improve energy efficiency, cycles take a bit longer than on other models. But there are still plenty that come with Quick Dry settings to get a small load sorted sooner.

No. Heat pump tumble dryers recycle warm air rather than sending it outside, so they don't need an external vent like other models.

Not usually. Most heat pump models collect water in a container that you just slide out and empty after each cycle. But some let you connect a drain hose connection if you'd rather not faff with emptying it yourself.

The main difference is that heat pump models recycle the warm air they use, instead of constantly creating new heat like a condenser model. That means heat pump dryers take a bit longer, but condenser dryers are more expensive to run.

Not usually. Most heat pump models collect water in a container that you just slide out and empty after each cycle. But some let you connect a drain hose connection if you'd rather not faff with emptying it yourself.

The main difference is that heat pump models recycle the warm air they use, instead of constantly creating new heat like a condenser model. That means heat pump dryers take a bit longer, but condenser dryers are more expensive to run.

Yes. Since they dry using warm air instead of hot to keep energy costs down, they're gentler on clothes than other models. They can help reduce shrinking, fading, and wear-and-tear on delicate fabrics.

The right capacity for you really depends on how many items you’ll likely dry at once:

• 4kg to 7kg – Fits up to 10 items
• 8kg to 9kg – Fits up to 14 items
• 10kg+ - Fits 18+ items

The best heat pump tumble dryer for you will depend on your budget, household size, and which features you're after. Some of the most popular tech that people look for is sensor drying, anti-crease settings, and smart connectivity.