Which Tumble Dryer?

[DIY_Guy]

Hi,

Im looking to purchase a new Tumble Dryer ad wanted peoples opinions on which one to go for including make and model. I can either install a vented or condensor model. Looking for at least one with a 5kg capacity.

Budget of about 250

Thanks in advance

 

[JohnD]

Be aware that Vented driers are more efficient, cheaper to buy and run, more reliable and do not expel residual moisture into the house, like Condensor Driers.

The only unbiased source I know, that tests a wide range of domestic appliances, is the Consumer's Association. Walk to your local library and ask to look at their binder of "Which"

Looking at their member's-only website, I see recemt Best Buys at about £250 are:

Whirlpool AWZ3303 £178.00

Zanussi-Electrolux ZDE57140W £234.00

Whirlpool AWZ 8578 £275.00

John Lewis is a good place to buy as they have price match, good customer service, and good guarantees.

 

[foxhole]

I would buy the simplest machine, no bells or whistles, tend to be cheaper and reliable as less to go wrong.

 

[DIY_Guy]

Hi,

Thanks for the responses.

I was looking at one of the hotpoint models but was told to go for a Bosch one. Not sure I can get a bosch for less then 300

 

[timtheenchanter]

condensors seem to take forever to dry clothes, go for an externally vented, as said wont mist up your housse, or make it too hot.

 

[JohnD]

Cheapest Which Best Buy Bosch is
Bosch WTV74104UK £298.19

Bosch Domestic appliances are usually found to be the best, second only to Miele which is the upmarket brand of the same group.

 

[DIY_Guy]

Is is worth purchasing a second hand Bosch dryer, say the WTA 2000 model? I know someone who has just bought a new dryer and was going to throw there old one out which is a Bosch WTA 2000 but doesnt have any heat. Could be an easy fix or isnt it worth fixing

 

[cmother1]

Who can tell? If you offer to take it to the dump for him then buy a cheap multi-meter you might find it's a cheap repair job, though in my experience nothing is cheap on Bosch appliances (eg. four quid for a plastic wheel on a dishwasher basket!).

We have had a vesy basic Creda Reversair for 18 years and the only thing that's ever gone on it is the drive belt (£11). I'm with foxhole who said go for the simplest machine. Most of the time all you are paying for on expensive appliances is extra facilities that you never use. (Take a look at the number of programmes on your washing machine if you don't believe me..)

 

[DIY_Guy]

Hi,

Totally agree with simplicity and programmes not being used. Is there a way you can tell when a thermostat isnt working anymore? I have a cheap multimeter. Whats the first thing I could check?

Thanks in advance

 

[DIY_Guy]

Anyone...

 

[cmother1]

Isolate stat. At room temperature you should have continuity. Ditto for the element(s)

 

[DIY_Guy]

Hi,

Sorry for my ignorance but im not entirely sure what you mean.

Should I remove the stats first and then test or do they need to be in the appliance before testing.

 

[cmother1]

You can leave them in the appliance. All I meant was remove the electrical connections to them before testing (ie isolate). Better make a note of the connections before you do it.

 

[namsag]

For cheaper running costs have you thought of a gas tumble drier far better than solely electric

 

[DIY_Guy]

Hi,

haven't given much thought to a gas version.

Which one would you recommend?

Fixed the Bosch WTA 2000, Thermostat on backplate replaced and now all sorted