TUMBLE DR YER TC 180

Contents

For the user

Safety information Description of the appliance Using your appliance
- Before you use the dryer for the rst time - Capacity - Examples of laundry item weights

For the installer

3 4-Technical specications Unpacking the machine
- Damages - Accessories - Identication of materials

Installation 7 8-9

- Positioning - Worktop installation - Wall mounting - Power supply
Programme chart Maintenance and cleaning
- The lters - The condenser - Emptying the water tank

Hints & Tips

- Sorting - Spinning (water extraction) - Getting the load size right - Fluff - Shrinkage - Items which should not be tumble dried
Something Not Working? Service
- Service and Spare Parts - Customer Care Department

Guarantee Conditions

Guide to use the instruction book
The following symbols will be found in the text to guide you throughout the instructions:
Safety instructions Step by step instructions Hints and tips Environmental information

Safety information

Before installing and rst using the tumble dryer, read this instruction booklet carefully, including its hints and warnings. To avoid unnecessary mistakes and accidents, it is important to ensure that all people using the dryer are thoroughly familiar with its operation and safety features. Save these instructions and make sure they remain with the tumble dryer if it is moved or sold, so that everyone using it through its life can be properly informed on appliance use and safety.
Installation and servicing
s All installation and service work done on the product
s Do not overload the dryer (see Using your appliance). s Never start the dryer unless the uff lter is clean and
must be carried out by a qualied technician. Work performed by persons with inadequate knowledge may adversely affect the satisfactory functioning of the product and may cause personal injury or damage. Before any work is carried out on the tumble dryer, it must be isolated from the electrical supply. To do this the power plug must be removed from the wall socket.
s The machine is heavy, so take care when moving it. s This appliance must be installed in a clean, dry envi-
correctly in place, or if the uff lter is damaged (this could cause overheating or damage your laundry).
s Get into the habit of cleaning the condenser at regular
intervals. Keeping the condenser as clean as possible makes the dryer more efcient and means shorter drying times.
s Do not allow uff to accumulate around the dryer. s As some bulky items such as duvets and eiderdowns
ronment. Cabinet damage, which is not covered by guarantee, could result if this recommendation is not followed.
s The power cable must be plugged into an earthed
should be dried in large commercial machines because of their bulk, check with the manufacturer of the item if it is suitable for drying in a domestic machine, even if the dry weight of the item is within the limit advised.
s Laundry which has been in contact with chemicals such
socket, which must be easily accessible. Permanent installation must only be carried out by an authorized electrician.
s Make sure that the power cable is not nipped or other-
as dry cleaning uid and similar, should not be dried in the machine, since volatile chemicals can be a re risk.
s The following items/materials should not be dried in
wise damaged when moving the machine in connection with installation or cleaning etc.

s The ventilation opening at the bottom of the door should
not be obstructed if the dryer is on a carpeted oor.
s The adjustable feet must not be removed, these
ensure that the underside of the dryer is ventilated.
s Servicing and repairs must be carried out by a trained
service technician. Only use genuine spare parts available from your local Service Force Centre. Never try to repair the machine yourself.
the machine either: Pillows, cushions, down-lled items etc. (these cause a build-up of heat and can make the dryer overheat) Wool, on account of its tendency to mat Especially sensitive textiles, such as synthetic curtains, silk etc. Garments made of foam rubber or rubber-like materials must not be dried in the machine.
s Make sure that the machine is disconnected from the
power supply during cleaning and maintenance work.
s Always switch off and unplug the appliance after use.

Child Safety

s The tumble dryer should be used by adults only. Do not
When removing the electrical plug, grip the plug, not the lead.
let children play with the controls or other parts of it.
s Keep all packaging well away from children. s Before loading the machine, check that there are no

Conservation

- packaging:
All materials used in packaging this appliance are environmentally-friendly. The various plastics used are identied and can be recycled.
foreign objects or pets inside the drum.

During Use

s This dryer is intended only for normal domestic drying of

- old appliances:

At the end of the appliance's useful life, disconnect the electrical plug from the power supply, then cut the electrical cable at the point where it enters the appliance. Disable any door locks and ensure that children will not be able to play with it.
laundry and only in accordance with these instructions. Using it for other purposes could lead to physical injury or damage to property and invalidate the guarantee.
s Care must be taken when removing or replacing the
condensor as it can be awkward and heavy.
Description of the appliance

1. 2. 3.

Door Latch (push the knob to the right to open) Space for programme chart

(Self-adhesive label)

Control panel with indicator lights

Lights

A. Indicates the dryer is running B. Indicates that the water tank is full

On/off timer knob

C. Turn this knob in a clockwise direction to start the
dryer and set both the drying time and the drying temperature. High heat: The timer indicates up to 120 mins for cotton/linen. Low heat: The time indicates up to 80 mins for synthetics. The last 8 - 12 minutes of each drying cycle is a cool down phase.
Warm air discharge Adjustable feet
If the dryer is not being wall mounted the feet need to be adjusted so that the dryer is level.
Air ducts - These should not be obstructed. Filters
Should be cleaned before or after each load. The uff lter is behind the coarse lter and can be removed for cleaning.

Condenser

This is built into the door and needs to be cleaned at regular intervals.

Water tank

This lls up with the water condensed by the dryer, and should be emptied before or after each load. When the tank is full, warning light (B) will come on and the dryer will stop automatically. It cannot be restarted until the tank has been emptied.
10. Drum 11. Rating plate 12. Electrical supply cable 13. Non-tip device

Using your appliance

Before using the dryer for the rst time
Dampen some clean pieces of unwanted cloth and dry them for about 15 minutes the very rst time, to make sure that there is no dust or dirt in the dryer.

Capacity (dry items)

Cotton Synthetics max. 3.4 kg max. 1.5 kg
1. Check that the dryer is connected to the

electrical supply.

Examples of laundry item weights

(dry items)

Here is a list of common laundry items and their approximate weights Sheet Pillowcase Tablecloth Table Napkin Kitchen Towel Linen Hand Towel Hand Towel Bath Towel Bathrobe Shirt Apron 700 to 1000g 100 to 200g 400 to 500g 50 to 100g 70 to 120g 100 to 150g 150 to 250g 700 to 1000g 100 to 1500g 200 to 300g 150 to 200g

2. Open the door by pushing the knob to the

right (A).

3. Check that the uff lter (B) is clean and that
the coarse lter (C) is lowered and has snapped into place.
4. Check that the water tank (D) is empty and
pushed correctly into place.
5. Put the load for drying into the machine. Make
sure that it is right inside the drum. Do not mix synthetics with natural materials.
6. According to the type of load, turn the on/off
timer knob (E) and choose a suitable drying time on either the Cotton or the Synthetics time scale.
7. Close the door and the machine starts.
It is advisable not to open the door during a programme as this could cause water to leak from the machine.
The best and most economical load is the maximum indicated for the different types of fabric.

Programme chart

Which programme should I use?
Timed drying This programme chart is designed to help you dry your laundry correctly. The programme/timer knob has two different sections, each with its own drying temperature and time scale: is used to represent cotton. Here you can set the dryer for up to 120 minutes, because cotton and thick non-synthetic fabrics need longer to dry. is used to represent synthetic fabrics and delicate items. Because these are more sensitive than cotton, they need a lower drying temperature. Here you can set the dryer for up to 80 minutes. Do not overdry your laundry. It can make it difcult to iron and harsher to the touch, as well as wasting energy. During the last 8-12 minutes of each programme, the load is cooled to reduce the risk of creasing.
COTTON Type of laundry Cottons Towelling (Terry) Sheets Towels How dry? Cupboard dry
DRYING TIME max 120 min Spun at approx. 800 rpm before drying 3,4 kg 2,0 kg 1,0 kg 3,4 kg 2,0 kg 1,0 kg 95 - 110 min 70 - 80 min 50 - 60 min 80 - 95 min 55 - 75 min 45 - 55 min

Iron dry

SYNTHETICS Type of laundry Items which need a reduced drying temperature Delicate items Heat-sensitive items (see garment care label) How dry?
DRYING TIME max 80 min Short spun before drying

Cupboard dry

1,5 kg 1,0 kg 0,7 kg 1,5 kg 1,0 kg 0,7 kg
65 - 75 min 45 - 55 min 40 - 50 min 50 - 60 min 35 - 40 min 30 - 35 min

If the laundry is spun at less than 800 rpm, the residual dampness will be higher and consequently the drying time should be increased. If the laundry is spun at 1000 rpm or higher the residual dampness will be lower and consequently the drying time can be reduced.

Maintenance and cleaning

The lters
For your tumble dryer to function correctly, the lters need to be cleaned before or after every load dried. To clean them: 1. Open the door. 2. Open the coarse lter upwards (Fig. A). 3. Brush the uff off the uff lter, which is under the coarse lter (Fig. B). Sometimes you may need to remove the uff lter to clean it on both sides. Make sure that you put the uff lter back correctly after cleaning, before closing the coarse lter.
Never start the dryer unless the uff lter is clean and correctly in place, or if the uff lter is damaged (this could cause overheating).

The condenser

As in all types of tumble dryer, the air circulated through the dryer picks up uff. As a result, some uff will accumulate in the condenser, so it needs to be cleaned occasionally. To clean the condenser: 1. Open the door and open the coarse lter upwards. 2. Remove the uff lter and close the coarse lter again. 3. Grasp the recesses at the top of the condenser with your ngers and use your thumbs to press against the door (Fig. C & D). The condenser will come free, allowing you to lift it outwards/upwards. Be careful not to damage the sensitive aluminium section. 4. Turn it upside down and clean it on both sides, using a vacuum cleaner. Remove the red drain plug on the lower edge of the condenser (Fig E). Lay the condenser at and ll it with water through the filter opening. Now leave the condenser to soak in water for about 5 minutes, then shower both sides with hot water. (Fig. F). Dry the condenser carefully afterwards. Dont forget to put back the red drain plug (Fig. G). 5. Put the condenser back in the dryer. Make sure that its base is lined up in the slots in the condenser cavity inside the dryer door. Press the condenser carefully into place until you feel and hear a gentle snap. Put back the uff lter and close the coarse lter.

Emptying the water tank

A warning light on the control panel will come on when it is time to empty the water tank. If it is operating when this happens, the dryer will stop automatically until the tank is emptied. It is a good idea to get into the habit of emptying the tank either before or after each load. To empty the tank: 1. Open the door. 2. Pull out the tank (Fig. A). 3. Open the tank lid and pour the water out (Fig. B). 4. Close the lid and push the tank back into place. Press it home until you can feel that it is properly in place.

Sorting

Always sort loads for drying according to the type of fabric (check the care labels) and how much you want to dry them. Load items loosely into the drum. Do up zip fasteners and tie loose ribbons, tapes or fabric belts. Close any tapes or fasteners on duvet covers and pillow cases to prevent smaller items from getting trapped inside.
Items which should not be tumble dried
Items which are especially delicate, such as curtains of synthetic fabric, woollen garments, silk, textiles with a metal component, nylon socks/stockings. Garments made mostly from foam rubber or rubber-like materials must NOT be dried in the tumble dryer. Obviously, you must not dry garments in the machine which are unsuitable for tumble drying. These are usually labelled with this symbol. Garments which have been treated with ammable liquids (benzine, alcohol, stain removal products) should not be dried in the tumble dryer on account of the risk of re. Always follow the recommendations of the garment/item manufacturer. Tumble drying benecial
Spinning (water extraction)
Loads should be well spun. The higher the spin speed, the faster your tumble dryer will dry the load and the more energy-efcient the whole process will be. Do not tumble dry dripping wet garments.
Getting the load size right
An overloaded tumble dryer will cause creasing. Drying loads which are too small is uneconomical.
The rst time you use the tumble dryer, you will probably be surprised at the amount of uff produced. This is perfectly normal, and does not mean that your tumble dryer is wearing out your clothes. When garments are worn and washed by hand or machine, bres and uff are released, but remain on the surface of the material. If dried outdoors on a line these bres will be blown away by the wind. In a tumble dryer the uff is collected in the lter and accumulates through the drying process.

Dry at

Shrinkage
To avoid shrinking, garments should not be overdried. Always check the care labels on your fabrics.

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Something Not Working?
Before calling out an engineer, please check through the details below because some faults can be rectified easily without the need to call out an engineer. If an engineer is called to resolve a problem listed below or to repair a fault caused by incorrect installation or mis-use a charge will be made, even if the appliance is under guarantee.

The machine will not start.
s Is the door closed properly? s Is there power to the machine? s Has the fuse blown? (Start with fuse in electrical plug). s Have you set the program/timer knob properly? s Is the water tank full?
The load is not drying properly, or is taking long time to dry.
s Was the time set not long enough? s Is the load too large?
Cotton max 3,4 kg Synthetics max 1,5 kg s Is the uff lter clogged?
s Is the condenser clogged? s Was the load not spun enough in the washing machine? s Have you been using the Synthetics setting (on the timer)
(lower drying temperature)?
s Is the temperature in the room too high?

Must not exceed +35 C.

The area around the dryer is hot.
s Is the room too small? (Improve the room ventilation, open
a door or window or choose another site for the dryer). Never attempt to repair the tumble dryer yourself. Repairs carried out by unauthorised or inexperienced persons can cause injury or serious malfunctioning.
This appliance complies with the following E.E.C. directives: 73/23/EEC, dated 19.02.1973 low-voltage directive. 89/336/EEC, dated 03.05.1989 (incl. amendment 92/31/EEC) directive on electromagnetic compatibility.

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Service

Service and Spare Parts

In the event of your appliance requiring service, or if you wish to purchase spare parts, please contact your local Service Force Centre by telephoning:

08705 929929

Your telephone call will be automatically routed to the Service Force Centre covering your post code area. For the address of your local Service Force Centre and further information about Service Force, please visit the website at www.serviceforce.co.uk Before calling out an engineer, please ensure you have read the details under the heading In the event of a fault. When you contact the Service Force Centre you will need to give the following details: 1. Your name, address and post code 2. Your telephone number 3. Clear and concise details of the fault 4. The model and serial number of the appliance (found on the rating plate) 5. The purchase date Please note that a valid purchase receipt or guarantee documentation is required for in-guarantee service calls.

Customer Care Department

For general enquiries concerning your Zanussi appliance or for further information on Zanussi products, please contact our Customer Care Department by letter or telephone at the address below or visit our website at www.zanussi.co.uk Customer Care Department Zanussi 55-77 High Street Slough Berkshire SL1 1DZ Tel: * * call to this number may be recorded for training purposes.

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Standard guarantee conditions
We, Zanussi, undertake that if within 12 months of the date of the purchase this Zanussi appliance or any part thereof is proved to be defective by reason only of faulty workmanship or materials, we will, at our option repair or replace the same FREE OF CHARGE for labour, materials or carriage on condition that: The appliance has been correctly installed and used only on the electricity supply stated on the rating plate The appliance has been used for normal domestic purposes only, and in accordance with the manufacturers instructions The appliance has not been serviced, maintained repaired, taken apart or tampered with by any person not authorised by us All service work under this guarantee must be undertaken by a Zanussi Service Force Centre Any appliance or defective part replaced shall become the Companys property This guarantee is in addition to your statutory and other legal rights
Home visits are made between 8.30am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday. Visits may be available outside these hours in which case a premium will be charged.

Exclusions

This guarantee does not cover: Damage or calls resulting from transportation, improper use or neglect, the replacement of any light bulbs or removable parts of glass or plastic Costs incurred for calls to put right an appliance which is improperly installed or calls to appliances outside the United Kingdom Appliances found to be in use within a commercial environment, plus those which are the subject to rental agreements Products of Zanussi manufacture which are not marketed by Zanussi

European Guarantee

If you should move to another country within Europe then your guarantee moves with you to your new home subject to the following qualications: The guarantee starts from the date you rst purchased your product The guarantee is for the same period and to the same extent for labour and parts as exists in the new country of use for this brand or range of products This guarantee relates to you and cannot be transferred to another user Your new home is within the European Community (EC) or European Free Trade Area The product is installed and used in accordance with our instructions and is only used domestically, i.e. a normal household The product is installed taking into account regulations in your new country

Before you move please contact your nearest Customer Care centre, listed below, to give them details of your new home. They will then ensure that the local Service Organisation is aware of your move and able to look after you and your appliances. France Germany Italy Sweden UK Senlis Nurnberg Pordenone Stockholm Slough +33 (0)99 +49 (0)7378 +39 (0)4700 +46 (0)+44 (0)1753 219897

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Installation instructions
Any electrical work required to install this appliance should be carried out by a qualied electrician or competent person.

Technical specications

DIMENSIONS Height Overall Width Depth Depth 686 mm 605 mm 420 mm (with door closed) 900 mm (with door opened 90)

WEIGHT

CAPACITY
Cotton Synthetics/Delicate

3,4 kg 1,5 kg

ELECTRICAL DATA
Power supply Fuse Motor Power rating
230 V - 50 Hz 13 A 170 W 2170 W
Consumption according to the EN 61121 European standard
Energy 2,78 kWt/3,4 kg cotton The consumer information on the energy declaration is in accordance with directive EEC 92/75 and refers to the 104 minute programme.

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Unpacking the machine

Damages

If the dryer has been damaged during transport, you should immediately notify the company responsible for delivering it. Check that the dryer is undamaged. If you discover any damage, faults or that anything is missing, you should notify the dealer immediately. Never leave packaging material in a place where children may play with it.

Accessories

Console for wall mounting Non-tip device consisting of: 1 wall hook 1 plastic wall plug
Identication of materials
All materials used in packaging the dryer are environmentally-friendly. The various plastics used are identied and can be recycled: PE stands for polyethylene, which is used for the bag around the dryer and the bag in which these instructions were supplied. PS stands for (moulded) polystyrene, which is used for the sections of packaging needed to cushion the dryer. The cardboard components of the packaging are made from recyclable paper and should be taken to a collection point for recycling. The dryer contains plastic and rubber components. These have identifying marks to show what they are made from, so they can be recycled or disposed of properly at the end of the dryers life. The materials are identied according to international standards.

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Installation

Positioning

You can install this dryer in a number of different ways. We will show you the most suitable of these. Whichever way you install it, here are some points to bear in mind: Always ensure that the dryer is level for optimum functioning. The temperature in the room should not exceed +35 C when the dryer is operating. If it does, open a door or window while the dryer is on. The dryer uses the air in the room for cooling. The area around the dryer should be as dust-free as possible. If you install the dryer with its door hinge side towards a wall, or next to a cupboard or wall unit which is more than 370 mm deep, you will need to leave a space on the hinge side at least 30 mm wide. This is to allow the door to open wide enough for removing the water tank. Ensure the air ducts are not obstructed.

Worktop installation

If you prefer to install your dryer on a worktop, you must anchor it at the top rear to prevent it from tipping forwards. Method: 1. Begin by placing the dryer on the worktop in the position where it is to be installed. 2. Level the dryer with the aid of its adjustable feet. 3. Mark the position for the hook on the wall. The correct place is opposite the centre of the lefthand bracket on the top rear of the dryer. Drill a hole for a 8 mm diameter plastic wall plug. 4. Screw the hook (1) into place. Once in place, the eye (aperture) of the hook needs to be 40 mm from the wall. 5. Position the dryer so that the eye is correctly aligned in the bracket. 6. Fit the pin (2) through bracket and eye and lock it in place with the split-pin (3).
The adjustable feet must not be removed, they ensure that there is adequate ventilation underneath the dryer.

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Wall mounting
Different wall materials require different types of mounting hardware. Purchase mounting hardware suited to the walls in your home. Use a minimum of 3 suitable fasteners to attach your mounting console to the wall. Before deciding on the wall mounting site, it is important to check that the electrical lead will reach the wall socket once the dryer is in place. All electrical work performed on the dryer should be done by a qualied electrician or competent person. If you are installing the dryer between wall-mounted cupboards, you should use the wall mounting console. If the adjacent cupboards are more than 370 mm deep, dont forget to leave a space at least 30 mm wide on the left of the dryer so that the door can open wide enough. There should be a clear space at least 200 mm high between the top of the dryer and the ceiling or any cupboard above the dryer, to ensure adequate ventilation at the top.

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Power supply
The dryer is supplied with a lead and electrical plug for connection to a 230 V, 13 A earthed wall socket. Before any work is carried out on the dryer, it must be isolated from the electric mains supply, for example by removing the plug from the wall socket. Permanent electrical installation must be carried out by an authorised electrician or competent person.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE EARTHED.
The manufacturer declines any liability should this safety measure not be observed. If the plug that is fitted to your appliance is not suitable for your socket outlet, it must be cut off and the appropriate plug tted. Remove the fuse from the cut off plug. The cut off plug should then be disposed of to prevent the hazard of shocks in case it should be plugged into a 13 amp socket in another part of your home.

Important

The wires in the mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code: Green and Yellow Blue Brown - Earth - Neutral - Live
13 AMP BLUE BROWN CORD CLAMP GREEN & YELLOW 13 AMP FUSE
If you t your own plug, the colours of the wires in the mains lead of your appliance may not correspond with the markings identifying the terminals in your plug, proceed as follows: Connect the Green and Yellow (earth) wire to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter E or the earth symbol or coloured green and yellow. Connect the blue (neutral) wire to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter N or coloured black. Connect the brown (live) wire to the terminal in the plug which is marked with the letter L or coloured red. The plug moulded onto the lead incorporates a fuse. For replacement, use a 13 amp BSI362 fuse. Only ASTA or BSI approved fuses should be used.

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Electrolux plc 2002

Essential Reports

Choosing a

tumble dryer

Vented and condenser dryers you can rely on Best Buy washer-dryers
Features explained and commonly asked questions

TEST ED

1 BEST 7 BUY S
INDEPENDENT EXPERT ADVICE YOU CAN TRUST

Inside

Letter from the editor
Welcome to the Which? guide to choosing a tumble dryer. If you dont have access to a clothesline, and you dont fancy a trip to the laundrette, the chances are youll need a tumble dryer. The problem is there are several flavours. Our comprehensive guide to dryers will help you choose the right type for your needs and get the best model. Whether its giving advice on setting up your TV or choosing the right washing machine, Which? gives you all the facts you need to make the decision thats best for you. We test more products more rigorously and in greater depth than anyone else, so you can be sure that youre getting the best information available. And we cut through the techno-babble to give you clear, no-nonsense advice thats easy to understand. But the most important thing about us is that we are totally independent. Nobody pays us we take no advertising or freebies, and we buy all our products at full price, just like you. Were funded by consumers, for consumers. So we can tell it like it is and give you the straight facts good or bad. Neil Fowler Editor, Which?

Contents

03 How to buy
Deciding on the right type of dryer We take a look at the programs and options 18 dryers that passed the Which? tests

15 Washer-dryers

05 Features explained
Are these the solution if you have space for only one machine? Whats what with a washer-dryer Three top-scoring washer-dryers
16 Features explained and FAQs 17 Best Buy washer-dryers 18 How we test washer-dryers
These machines are put through the mill with piles of washing and drying
06 Which? Best Buy tumble dryers 11 How we test tumble dryers
Putting the machines through their paces
12 Tumble dryer FAQs 13 Reliability
The answers to commonly asked questions Our survey rates the popular brands Scores and prices for all the machines we tested
14 Table of all dryers tested

About Which?

Which? is a non-profit-making organisation that aims to make consumers as powerful as the organisations they deal with in their daily lives. Which? campaigns to get a fairer deal for all consumers on a wide range of issues, tests more than 2,000 products a year and publishes the results of this rigorous testing and expertise in a wide range of magazines and books, and through an online subscription service and new digital store. Which? is entirely independent we take no ads or freebies and pay full price for everything we test. As a result, Which? is the number one independent source
Independent expert advice you can trust
of buying advice in the UK, with more than one million customers. or services that achieve the highest results after rigorous testing by Which?.

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Best Buys

Which? aims to help you choose the best goods and services. The nationally WHICH? BEST recognised Which? BUY Best Buy is awarded only to products
that perform extremely poorly in one or more of our key tests, or that achieve very low test scores.
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Which type of tumble drier should you choose?
Make sure you get the right tumble dryer for your home with our expert guide

Vented vs condenser

I Vented models These take the damp air produced by drying clothes and expel it from the room usually through a flexible exhaust hose hung out of an open window or connected to a permanent vent through a wall. Pros: Theyre cheaper and generally use less energy than condenser models. Cons: Youll need to install the dryer near a window or outside wall and the exhaust hose must be kept short and straight otherwise theres a risk of fire. Installing a permanent vent means drilling through your wall. I Condenser models With this type of dryer, the moist, hot air is cooled inside the machine and the resulting water is collected in a removable water reservoir. However, with a bit of know-how, most condenser dryers can also be plumbed straight into a drain. Pros: You have more freedom over where you install the dryer it neednt be near a window or wall. Cons: Theyre more expensive. If you choose a poor model, youll still have to cope with damp air and the possibility of mildew. You need to empty the reservoir regularly if it isnt plumbed in. Cons:You can inadvertently choose drying times which are too long, and over-drying clothes makes them stiff and more difficult to iron. It can take a while to learn which times work best for different sizes of load and types of fabric. I Sensor models These detect the moisture in your washing and stop the program automatically when its dry enough. Pros: Theyre very simple to operate, and drying times tend to be shorter than those of timer models. Theres less danger of your clothes ending up overdried and stiff than with timer models. Cons: Theyre more expensive than timer models. You might be limited to a few set periods if you want to choose your own drying time.
Some condenser dryers dont collect all the water
load. They are slower and inefficient to use if you want to dry a lot of washing, and theyre not as easy to load because they have small doors. And pushing clothes inside them can make the tumble dryer move about. The same basic dryer is sold under several different brands. The Creda, Hotpoint, Indesit and Crusader compacts are all the same basic model. I Built-in Integrated, or built-in, models are hidden behind a kitchen cabinet door, but there are fewer models to choose from. Again, the same basic model is available under several brand names.

Other considerations

I Installation Vented driers need to be sited near a window or where you can create a permanent vent through the wall. Condenser dryers are more flexible; some can be plumbed straight into a drain, while others rely on you emptying the water reservoir regularly. Some condenser dryers dont collect all the water, so should be used in a wellventilated area to avoid creating mildew. I Capacity and creasing Most dryers have a maximum capacity of either 6 or 7kg of dry cotton washing. Although machines with 8, 9 or even 10kg capacities are now available, most people dont fill their washing machine to capacity, so wouldnt make best use of a 10kg dryer. Most machines leave clothes creased. Even clothes dried in the machines that have the best creasing scores would still need ironing.
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Other types of dryer

I Compacts Compact dryers are about 20% smaller than a full-sized tumble dryer, but can dry only half as much washing per full

Timer vs sensor

I Timer models With timer models, you decide the duration by turning the machines dial to a specific time or program label for example, the cupboard-dry program. Pros: Theyre the cheapest type. You select your own drying times, so you know how long it will take.
Table of all tumble dryers tested
Price () Score Price () Score Price () Score
TUMBLE DRYERS AEG-ELECTROLUX T56830 Lavatherm AEG-ELECTROLUX T57830 Lavatherm AEG-ELECTROLUX T59800 Lavatherm BAUMATIC BTD1 BEKO DRCS68W BEKO DRVS62W CANDY CV116 SMART CAPLE TDI100 CDA C1920 CDA CI520 CREDA TCR2 CREDA TCS3 CREDA TVR2 CREDA TVS3 CREDA TVU1 ELECTRA E2701W AUTOSENSE ELECTROLUX EDC 77570 INSPIRE ELECTROLUX EDE57160W Inspire ELECTROLUX EDI96150W Insight Iron Aid GORENJE D61112 GORENJE D62225 HOOVER HHD780X HYDRO HOTPOINT CTD00 AQUARIUS HOTPOINT CTD40 AQUARIUS HOTPOINT CTD80 ULTIMA
HOTPOINT CTD85 ULTIMA ---------------------------------------------------------------------------HOTPOINT V3D00 HOTPOINT V3D01P HOTPOINT VTD00 AQUARIUS HOTPOINT VTD20 AQUARIUS HOTPOINT VTD60 AQUARIUS + HOTPOINT VTD65 AQUARIUS + INDESIT G32V INDESIT IS60V INDESIT IS70C INDESIT ISL60V INDESIT ISL70C JOHN LEWIS JLDV08 KENWOOD KVT1W LG TDC70040E LG TDC70080E MAYTAG MDE5605AES ELENSIS MAYTAG MDE9601AEW 60 SERIES MAYTAG MDE9651AES 60 SERIES MAYTAG MDE9651AEW 60 SERIES MAYTAG MDE9701AEW 60 SERIES MIELE T4809CI HONEYCOMB CARE MIELE T7634 NOVOTRONIC MIELE T7644C NOVOTRONIC MIELE T7734 HONEYCOMB CARE MIELE T7744C HONEYCOMB CARE
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MIELE T8322 HONEYCOMB CARE MIELE T8422C HONEYCOMB CARE MIELE T8428C HONEYCOMB CARE SIEMENS WT46E387GB TRICITY BENDIX TM220 TRICITY BENDIX TM320 WHIRLPOOL AWZ3303 WHIRLPOOL AWZ7303 WHITE KNIGHT 38AW WHITE KNIGHT 42AS WHITE KNIGHT 42AW WHITE KNIGHT 43AW WHITE KNIGHT 44AS WHITE KNIGHT 44AW WHITE KNIGHT 76AS WHITE KNIGHT 76AW WHITE KNIGHT 84AS WHITE KNIGHT 84AW ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX TC180W ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDC46130

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--ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDC67550W --ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDE26100W --ZANUSSI-ELECTROLUX ZDE57140W ---

Energy efficiency

Save pounds with our tips on energy-efficient drying. I What do energy ratings on tumble dryers tell you? Energy-class labels on tumble dryers are meant to help you choose a more energy-efficient model. The classes range from A (the highest rating) to G (the lowest). Generally speaking, tumble dryers use a lot of energy, so most models are C-rated. However, weve found that the labels dont always correspond with how much electricity a machine uses to dry a load. Also, the energy class of a tumble dryer depends on which program the manufacturer selects for the test. So, for example, the White Knight CL 847 is A-rated but only because White Knight elected to test it on a special lowenergy program, which can take up to seven hours to dry a load. We aim to make our own
energy-consumption ratings more realistic. We use four different programs, which reveals wider differences between models than the energy labels do. You can find our ratings in the product summaries. I Energy-efficient drying Even though most tumble dryers have a C-class rating, the energy they use varies by around a third. And, with a million tumble dryers sold in the UK every year, that adds up; a washing line is far more energy-efficient. If you bought one of ourA-rated Which? Best Buy tumble dryers for example the AEGElectrolux T59800 Lavatherm (se p8) you would save nearly 31 a year compared with a G-rated product. However, even if you dont opt for an A-rated dryer there are a few things you can do to use less energy. Try to fit the maximum load in your tumble dryer every time. Use a high spin speed on your washing
machine to get your washing as dry as you can. Clean the lint filter every time you use the machine. A blocked filter prevents the hot air from circulating freely, so clothes take longer to dry. Make sure the room the dryer is in is well ventilated. This stops the tumble dryer from overheating. If it overheats, it takes longer to finish drying a load. With sensor models, dry clothes for ironing together with other clothes. Start the load with an iron-dry setting, remove the clothes for ironing, and then put the rest on a cupboard-dry program. I Are there any energy-saving dryers? Tumble dryers use a relatively large amount of energy. White Knight introduced the firstArated dryer to the UK in 2003, now called the 84AW. AEG-Electrolux followed in 2005 with the T59800 and John Lewis in 2006 with the JLTDC01.
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Washer-dryers

Space-saving compromise
Is a washer-dryer the all-singing, all-dancing solution for a small kitchen? Read on
If youre pushed for space, you may be tempted by a washer-dryer rather than a separate washing machine and tumbledryer. Sometimes this may be cheaper, too: for example, our John Lewis Best Buy is 58 less than its cheapest ownbrand washing machine and tumbledryer. You also have a greater choice of models these days, and larger drum sizes are now available. Despite this, a dual-purpose machine will mean compromises. Some wash clothes well, but for drying theyre usually slower, less efficient and take a smaller load than a decent tumble-dryer. This may not matter to you only just over one in four people in our survey regularly uses their machine for drying. Our Best Buys (p17) have lots of useful features. The AEG-Electrolux and John Lewis machines cost 500 less than the Miele and score only slightly less. The Tricity Bendix WDR1241 (p18) is worth considering as a budget buy, even though its not a Best Buy. Bosch and Zanussi-Electrolux were updating their range as we tested, so their models dont feature here.

HOW TO BUY

What you should look for
WASHING PROGRAMS Programs at different temperatures for cottons, man-made fibres and delicates are standard for washer-dryers. Some machines have options such as soak, stain removal, extra rinse, rapid, intensive and half load
DELAYED START Some models let you program them to start washing between one and 24 hours later. This means you can do the washing overnight to take advantage of cheap electricity. If you use delayed start at night, fit a smoke alarm nearby

Questions to consider

I WHAT TYPE? Like washing machines, freestanding washerdryers are easy to fit under a worktop. Built-in (integrated) models hide behind a kitchen cabinet door, but there are fewer models to choose from. I FINDING THE MODEL Retailers such as John Lewis and Currys will order a model for you. Independent electrical stores can bend over backwards to track down any model, and many manufacturers keep lists of dealers. Online stores can offer big savings, but check delivery charges and customer reviews before buying. I DELIVERY AND DISPOSAL Delivery usually costs between 15 na 20. Under the WEEE directive (see p4) householders are not banned from disposing of WEEE in their bin, but doing so can be harmful to the environment. I INSTALLATION Some retailers include this as part of delivery. Independent shops often offer this as an incentive. Place machines on an even surface to prevent noise and vibration. Use the adjustable feet to ensure the machine is level.
VARIABLE SPIN SPEEDS These help protect woollens and other delicate items. Its useful if the default spin speed for your machine is higher than 1,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). This is usually indicated by having the numbers 12, 13, 14 or 16 in the products model name (12 representing 1,200rpm, for example)
DRYING Machines usually dry about half as much as they can wash, so you need to remove half the load for drying. Clothes are easier to iron when they contain about 12 per cent moisture. This isnt something that you can assess yourself, so automatic programs and suggested iron-dry times can be useful. All our Best Buys have iron-dry programs

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