When looking for a new dryer, there are a number of features you will find that will not only make your life easier, but may also save you money.
The primary difference between dryers is how they heat the air, which is either via electricity or gas. Although gas dryers may cost you slightly more, they are cheaper to operate.
Some of the features you might consider include the following:
Temperature Controls: You should be able to choose a lower heat for delicate fabrics.
Extended Tumble: Called a Press Care or Finish Guard, this setting helps prevent wrinkles in clothing when you don’t remove them right away.
Express-Dry Cycle: This cycle will dry small loads at high heat in less than half an hour.
Cool-down Cycle: Also called a permapress cycle when no heat is supplied for the last few minutes of the cycle. Cool air is blown through the clothes, so this feature conserves energy.
Touchpad Electronic Control: While this feature may be confusing at first, you can key in your favorite settings.
Top-mount Lint Filter: Most people find these easier to clean.
Lint Filter Warning Light: This reminds you to clean the filter.
Drum Size: Drum capacity can range from about 5 to 7.5 cubic feet. However, larger drums are available to handle big loads and bulky items.
Drum Light: This allows you to spot spray items that you may not otherwise see.
A Rack: This attaches to the inside of the dryer and will hold items that you don’t want tumbling around.
Drop-down Doors vs. Side-Opening: While the drop-down model may fit better against a wall, the side-opening doors make accessing the drum easier.
Front-mount Controls: You need this feature, if stacking your washer and dryer.
Compacts: These space-saving models are usually 24 inches wide, with half the drum capacity of standard models. However, they tend to perform just as well, work on half the voltage and can fit into small spaces.
Moisture Sensor: Over-drying clothes can cause wrinkles or damage to clothes. A sensor, rather than a thermostat will help you avoid this problem by automatically shutting off when necessary. This feature will also save you money on energy.
Noise Level: If your drying will be near the kitchen or bedroom, choose a model that runs quietly.
While all of these are features you may want to have with your dryer, make sure you are not charged for items you don’t really need. When purchasing a new dryer, you should also compare the energy efficiency of various models. The best way to do that is to check the EnerGuide ratings. The lower the rating, the less it will cost you to operate your new dryer.
If you need a professional to service your dryer and live in the
