In the bustling pace of modern living, Clothes dryers have evolved into indispensable tools, efficiently drying our laundry and significantly lightening our domestic load, especially in regions where the rainy season holds sway. As home appliances continually advance, new dryers with a host of innovative features are emerging, aiming to simplify and expedite the drying process.
However, such variety can sometimes lead to confusion when choosing the perfect dryer. To assist in your decision, we curated a list of the top 6 clothes dryers in New Zealand. Each selection balances essential factors like energy efficiency, capacity, quality, performance, and unique features, aiming to guide you toward a purchase that truly elevates your laundry experience.
Our Top Picks
For our top picks, here are the best clothes dryers available to New Zealanders:
- Samsung 10kg Smart Heat Pump Dryer: Best energy efficient and convenient controls
- Fisher & Paykel 9kg Heat Pump Condensing Dryer: 23 pre-programmed cycles for versatile fabric care
- Kogan 6kg Vented Tumble Dryer: Intelligent humidity sensor and budget-friendly
- Eurotech 7kg Vented Dryer: Compact with adjustable dryness setting
- Haier 4kg Sensor Vented Dryer: Practical drying solution for individuals
- Westing House 4.5kg Vented Clothes Dryer: Wall-mounted with auto cool-down to prevent creasing
Now, let's take a closer look at the features and capabilities of these options to help you identify the perfect fit for your laundry needs.
Top 6 Clothes Dryers in New Zealand: In-Depth Reviews
After conducting extensive research and evaluation of over 15 clothes dryers in New Zealand, here are in-depth reviews of the top 6 options. Our thorough analysis provides you with valuable insights to make an informed decision.
1. Samsung 10kg Smart Heat Pump Dryer
The Samsung 10kg Smart Heat Pump Dryer combines advanced features and exceptional efficiency to revolutionise your laundry routine. With its Heat Pump Technology, this dryer achieves an impressive 9-star energy rating. It also uses 'refrigerant' technology to heat the air instead of relying solely on electricity and recycles warm air, significantly reducing energy consumption.
One standout feature of this dryer is its AI Dry technology, which uses nine intelligent sensors to optimise and control the temperature and humidity levels, ensuring fast and precise drying. With loads completed in less than one hour, you can enjoy quick and efficient drying without compromising on quality. The Hygiene Care+ cycle takes the appliance's functionality to the next level by utilizing the power of steam to eliminate common bacteria, mites, and allergens from your clothes and other items.
Maintaining Samsung's Smart Heat Pump Dryer is a breeze thanks to its innovative filter design. Its durability is similarly unmatched, thanks to its 20-year warranty Digital Inverter Technology, which uses strong magnets for quiet and powerful performance. And with a generous drying capacity of 10.0 kg, the dryer can handle large loads and bulky items with ease. It also features WiFi capabilities, allowing you to connect and control it remotely, and it is compatible with the SmartThings App for added convenience and control options.
Pros
- Large capacity
- 9-star energy efficiency rating
- AI control support
- Hybrid drying experience
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Somewhat expensive
- Only available in caviar black colour
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2. Fisher & Paykel 9kg Heat Pump Condensing Dryer
The Fisher & Paykel 9kg Heat Pump Condensing Dryer offers a range of features to enhance your laundry experience. With its 18 dry cycles, including 5 extra care cycles, you have ample options to suit different fabric types and drying requirements. While the absence of Wi-Fi connectivity distinguishes it from the Samsung 10kg Smart Heat Pump Dryer, it makes up for it with its intuitive controls and LCD display, providing a user-friendly interface to select and customise your drying cycles.
The Fisher & Paykel dryer also includes Heat Pump technology, which dries clothes at lower temperatures for gentle fabric care. With moisture condensed during the drying process, there is no need for external venting, allowing you to place the dryer anywhere in your home, similar to what Samsung offers. The Fisher & Paykel dryer also has Auto-sensing technology that detects moisture levels inside the drum and shuts off at the perfect time to prevent over-drying, protecting your clothes and reducing energy wastage.
With an impressive 8-star energy rating and features like the clean condenser filter reminder, end-of-cycle signal, and easy-access lint filter, this dryer prioritises convenience, ease of use, and efficient and eco-friendly operation.
Pros
- 8-star energy efficiency rating
- Large capacity
- 18 drying cycles
- Extra 5 care cycles
- Auto-sensing technology
Cons
- Somewhat expensive
- Only available in physical stores
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3. Kogan 6kg Vented Tumble Dryer
With its 6kg clothes capacity and easy control touch panel, the Kogan 6kg Vented Tumble Dryer offers convenience and simplicity in operation. While it may not have the extensive features and advanced technologies of the Samsung Smart Heat Pump Dryer or the Fisher & Paykel Heat Pump Condensing Dryer, it serves as a more budget-friendly option for those with basic drying needs.
Kogan's dryer includes an intelligent humidity sensor, which gauges the moisture in garments and automatically turns off when the clothes are dry. This not only saves energy but also prevents over-drying, which can potentially damage your clothes. The Kogan dryer also allows you to set the desired drying time, ranging from 20 to 200 minutes. It may not offer a wide variety of preset programs like the other models, but it still provides handy preset options to help you select the best cycle for your load.
Compared to the other models, the Kogan dryer lacks the advanced sensing and control mechanisms found in the higher-end models, which may result in less precise drying and energy efficiency. With its 2.5-star energy rating, the dryer is not as energy-efficient as the Samsung or Fisher & Paykel models either. Still, you get anti-crease mode that minimises the need for ironing, an IPX4 water-resistant rating that adds a level of durability and protection against water splashes, and a budget-friendly dryer for your needs.
Pros
- Compact design
- Integrated control panel feature
- Intelligent humidity sensor
- Easy to operate
- Anti-crease mode feature
- Energy-saving
- Affordable
Cons
- No front venting
- No reverse tumbling option
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4. Eurotech 7kg Vented Dryer
The Eurotech 7kg Vented Dryer is an excellent choice for small families or individuals in need of a compact and straightforward drying solution. With its simple design and compact size, this dryer seamlessly integrates into most laundry rooms. The dryer features easy-to-manage touch controls that allow you to set the desired dryness settings for your clothes. This feature ensures that your garments are dried to the appropriate level, reducing the risk of over-drying or damaging delicate fabrics.
The option to wall-mount the dryer provides flexibility in terms of space utilisation. Its transparent door with a 180-degree opening enhances convenience by providing visibility into the drum to monitor the drying process. Additionally, it includes the auto-stop drying feature, which ensures that the dryer automatically stops when the desired dryness level is reached, saving energy and preventing over-drying.
Eurotech's dryer offers an anti-crease option, like the Kogan Vented Tumble Dryer, which helps reduce the time and effort spent on ironing. The inclusion of a child lock and error alarm adds an extra layer of safety and convenience. And in terms of programs and settings, the dryer has four programs: Mix, Cotton, Synthetic, and 1-Hour, and three settings (Extra, Standard, and Less) for flexibility in terms of drying intensity, allowing you to choose the level that suits your garments.
Pros
- Freestanding or Wall mounted
- Auto-stop drying
- 4 Program-cycles and 3 dryer settings
- Anti-crease option
- Affordable
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- 2-star energy efficiency rating
- Only available in white
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5. Haier 4kg Sensor Vented Dryer
The Haier 4kg Sensor Vented Dryer is a practical option for individuals. With its sensor drying feature and reverse tumble action, this dryer ensures efficient and gentle drying while reducing clothes tangling. The sensor drying feature of the Haier dryer is a notable attribute, as it prevents over-drying and under-drying of your clothes. This technology helps maintain the quality and longevity of your garments while optimising energy efficiency.
With front and rear venting options, the Haier dryer offers flexibility in installation. The ability to easily connect a flexible hose allows you to direct moisture out of your home, enhancing ventilation and reducing humidity. This feature sets it apart from the Kogan 6kg Vented Tumble Dryer, which lacks rear venting options. Haier's Sensor dryer also offers nine drying options, allowing you to tailor the drying process to suit your load. Plus, it includes the handy Anti-Crease function, which minimises the need for ironing, saving time and effort.
The energy rating of 2 stars indicates that the Haier dryer may not be as energy-efficient as higher-rated models such as the Samsung 10kg Smart Heat Pump Dryer. But while it may not offer the extensive features and energy efficiency of higher-end models, it provides convenience with its sensor drying, reverse tumble action, and flexible venting options.
Pros
- Compact and practical design
- Sensor drying prevents over-drying and under-drying
- Reverse tumble action reduces clothes tangling
- Flexible front and rear venting options
- Nine drying options with Anti-Crease function
Cons
- Low energy efficiency (2-star rating)
- Limited program options compared to other models
- Basic control interface with electronic dials
- Small 4kg load capacity
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6. Westinghouse 4.5kg Vented Clothes Dryer
The Westinghouse 4.5kg Vented Clothes Dryer, with its anti-tangle reverse tumbling action, ensures even drying results. Its front lint filter provides convenience and easy maintenance, and the added rotary dial control makes it straightforward to operate, offering simplicity in selecting drying settings. The dryer also offers the option to install it on the wall, saving valuable floor space in your laundry area.
While the energy efficiency rating of 1.5 stars may not be as high as other models, it still provides a basic level of efficiency. And the option for front or rear venting, with or without the venting kit, adds flexibility to suit your laundry needs. This, however, distinguishes it from the Haier 4kg Sensor Vented Dryer and Kogan 6kg Vented Tumble Dryer, which have specific venting options.
Westinghouse's dryer comes with a child safety lock door for added safety and peace of mind. It also features a reverse tumbling action that reduces clothes tangling and promotes more even drying and an auto cool down feature which minimises creasing. The dryer may lack the capacity and advanced features of larger and more advanced models, but it offers practicality with its reverse tumbling action, flexible venting options, and convenient functionality.
Pros
- Reverse Tumbling Action
- Compact Design
- 2-Year Warranty
- Affordable Price
- Space Saving/Wall Mounted
Cons
- Low Energy Efficiency (1.5 Rating)
- Smaller Capacity
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Why Buy a Clothes Dryer?
Clothes dryers are an integral part of our daily lives, providing a multitude of benefits beyond simply giving us dry and fluffy clothing. They serve as a frontline defence against moisture-borne bacteria, harnessing heat to eliminate potential health hazards.
These appliances also offer the practical advantage of drying a substantial volume of clothes and fabrics daily, irrespective of the weather. This can be a real game-changer in rainy seasons when sunshine is in short supply. With a dryer, all you need to do is pop your laundry inside, wait for the cycle to finish, and then neatly fold your freshly dried items.
But before purchasing a dryer, it's important to consider your specific requirements, the environment of your home, and the variety of fabrics you need to dry, to ensure you find the perfect match.
Types of Clothes Dryers
To help you make an informed decision about the best clothes dryer for your home, it's crucial to understand the different types of dryers available on the market and their unique features and functionalities.
Vented Dryers
Often found in apartments or smaller homes, vented clothes dryers feature a small hole or vent to expel moisture and air. This design makes them suitable for spaces without a dedicated laundry room, as they can be wall-mounted.
The operation is quite straightforward: the dryer draws in air from the surroundings, heats it up, and circulates it through the clothes. This air, now laden with moisture from the clothes, is then expelled through the vent.
Reasons to buy:
- Cost-effective alternative to condenser and heat pump dryers
- Compact and suitable for small spaces, wall-mountable
Reasons to avoid:
- Tends to be noisy
- Releases moist air, lint, and particles indoors
- Requires adequate outdoor ventilation
While vented dryers have their advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and compact design, the release of moist air and the requirement for proper outdoor ventilation are aspects to consider, particularly in settings where indoor air quality and moisture control are important factors.
Condenser Dryers
As their name suggests, these types of dryers use a condenser in order to remove moisture from clothes. These dryers use heat exchangers to remove water from the air. To make it short, hot air is passed through the condenser and cools as it comes into contact with the clothes. The water is then collected in a container which can be either reused or thrown away.
Reasons to buy:
- Energy-efficient
- No ventilation required
- Faster drying cycle
Reasons to avoid:
- Higher cost compared to vented dryers
Heat Pump Dryers
Among the various types of clothes dryers, Heat Pump Dryers are an innovative solution that employs a small heat pump to effectively dry your clothes. This mechanism uses a heat pump to extract moisture from the air after hot air has circulated through the garments.
Thanks to this "closed loop" approach, virtually no hot air or moisture leaks into the environment, making this type of dryer significantly more energy-efficient than vented or condenser models. This makes them an excellent choice for confined spaces, such as apartments, where outdoor venting isn't feasible. Additionally, as a heat pump dryer removes moisture from the air more rapidly than traditional dryers, your clothes dry much quicker.
Reasons to buy:
- Gentle drying extends clothes' lifespan
- No ventilation required
- Energy-efficient
Reasons to avoid:
- Bulkier than vented and condenser dryers
- More expensive than other dryers
Guidelines for Using a Clothes Dryer
By adhering to these recommendations, you can achieve optimal drying results, extend the lifespan of your garments, and minimise potential risks.
- Familiarise yourself with the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe and optimal usage. Additionally, sort and load clothes appropriately based on fabric type, weight, and drying requirements.
- Regularly clean the lint filter before or after each use to maintain airflow and check for proper venting to allow hot, moist air to escape. This contributes to improved drying performance and safety.
- Select the appropriate heat setting for different fabric types to prevent damage, shrinkage, or excessive drying. Similarly, avoid overdrying by setting the dryer to the recommended drying time or using moisture sensors, if available.
- Keep the dryer clean by wiping the interior, drum, and exterior surfaces. Schedule professional maintenance when needed to address mechanical issues. Always remember to never leave the dryer running unattended to minimise fire risks.
- Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors near the laundry area for prompt detection of potential hazards. We recommend following additional safety precautions, such as keeping flammable materials away from the dryer and avoiding drying unsuitable items.
How to Choose the Best Clothes Dryer
If you are planning to buy a clothes dryer, here are the things and features you can consider before purchasing one.
Size
The larger the capacity, the bigger the dryer. However, you must also determine the space capacity of your laundry area before you buy a larger or smaller dryer. Avoid going through the heartache of purchasing what you believe to be the ideal dryer just to find out it doesn't fit once you get it home.
Even though the measurements of the appliance you're considering are listed on the tag or website, it is still a good idea to measure it just in case. Additionally, bear in mind that it's a good idea to allow some space between your dryer and the wall or other appliances for safety reasons.
Ducting
Vented dryers produce a lot of warm, humid air; therefore, choosing a dryer that can be ducted outside is best. Dripping walls and mouldy ceilings are avoided through ducting towards the outdoors. However, ducting kits are optional extras for different dryer models; kits are provided with some dryers but not all.
Wall-mounted or Stackable
If your house has a smaller space for the laundry area, then you'll save space if your dryer can be wall-mounted or stacked on top of a front-loading washing machine. The only dryers often mounted on a wall are vented dryers. However, stackable models are intended to be placed on top of a front-loading washer of the same manufacturer. As best advice, before you purchase a clothes dryer, find out if it can be stacked or wall-mounted.
Drying Racks
Drying racks are used to dry shoes and other non-fabric things so they don't tumble while drying. Racks come in both internal and external varieties and are typically an extra item. Only non-ducted clothes dryers with an exhaust grille in the front door are eligible for external racks.
Child Lock Controls
If you have young children who like to explore, consider a model with safety features like child locks. This usually requires a specific combination of buttons to be pressed before the dryer can be opened or started, preventing accidental usage. It's generally recommended for families with children to avoid machines that automatically start.
Variety of Features
Typically, the higher the price of your dryer, the more features it will offer. Basic models offer essential programs like quick cycles and specialised settings for light and heavy garments. More premium models offer a wider array. Although these might seem like unnecessary additions, they are designed for efficiency. Running slightly damp clothing on a quick cycle rather than a full one will conserve energy and, in turn, save you money.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about clothes dryers in New Zealand.
How does a clothes dryer affect clothes?
A clothes dryer can be both a boon and a bane to your clothes. On the positive side, it provides quick drying and can help in sanitising your clothes, especially in damp weather conditions. The warmth can also give a softer feel to certain fabrics.
However, on the downside, frequent use of a dryer can cause wear and tear, colour fading, and shrinkage in some types of clothing. Understanding the care instructions for your garments can help balance the benefits of a dryer with maintaining the longevity of your clothes.
Do clothes dryers need maintenance?
Yes, clothes dryers do require maintenance to ensure efficient operation and longevity. This involves regular cleaning of the lint filter, checking and cleaning the venting system, and inspecting the drum and exterior for any potential issues. Proper maintenance not only improves dryer performance but can also prevent possible fire hazards and save on energy costs.
How often do I need to clean the dryer vent?
Most dryers and vent systems require to be cleaned every one to three years to ensure optimum performance and the highest level of safety. However, the frequency with which your dryer vents must be cleaned is also determined by the volume of clothing dried weekly and the vent system's overall length.
How long should a clothes dryer last?
The lifespan of a clothes dryer largely depends on its make, model, usage habits, and maintenance routine. However, on average, a typical clothes dryer is expected to last about 10 to 15 years. Regular maintenance and responsible usage can potentially extend this lifespan. Nonetheless, as with all appliances, performance may decrease over time, and newer models with advanced features might offer better energy efficiency and drying capabilities.
What is the best temperature for a dryer?
The optimal temperature for your clothes dryer largely depends on the type of fabric you are drying. For most clothing, a medium heat setting is generally suitable and can effectively dry your clothes without causing undue wear and tear.
Delicate fabrics, like silk or lace, should be dried on a low heat setting to prevent damage, while heavier items like towels or thick bedding can usually withstand a high heat setting. However, it's always best to check the care labels on your garments for specific drying instructions.
Wrapping Up
Clothes dryers have become an indispensable partner for many New Zealand households, especially when grappling with our notorious wet winters or the rush of our busy Kiwi lifestyle.
However, selecting the perfect dryer isn't a decision to be rushed. It requires considering your specific laundry needs, the layout of your home, and the range of features offered by each model.
Remember, the best dryer isn't just a machine that gets the job done but one that seamlessly integrates with your New Zealand home and lifestyle, simplifying your routine rather than adding to your workload.
