Are heat pump dryers worth it?

Author: Mr. Darien Pfannerstill DDS  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 27, 2025

A high-efficiency heat pump dryer is a great way to reduce energy costs while maintaining the convenience and performance of a conventional dryer. Compared to a conventional electric model, an ENERGY STAR certified heat pump dryer could save you more than $500 in electricity costs over the life of the product.

What are the disadvantages of a heat pump dryer?

There are also some drawbacks to heat pump dryers. They are more expensive than traditional dryers, which can be an obstacle for some consumers. However, it is necessary to consider future maintenance costs such as the amount to be rebated and the cost of installing an exhaust vent.

Are heat pump dryers really worth it?

Lower Running Costs: Though the initial investment may be higher, the long-term savings on your energy bills can make it a cost-effective choice in the long run. Better for Fabrics: Because they operate at lower temperatures, heat pump dryers are gentler on your clothes, reducing wear and tear.

Is it worth changing to a heat pump tumble dryer?

They're more energy efficient and cheaper to run, kinder to the environment, and provide better protection for your clothes. You can place them anywhere you like in your home with no issues.

Do heat pump tumble dryers need venting?

Heat pump tumble dryers don't need an exhaust pipe, meaning they can be installed anywhere in the home. From under kitchen cabinets to a garage or utility, there's no need for a cumbersome exhaust pipe that needs to be fitted into a wall vent or hung out of a window.

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Does a heat pump dryer require a vent?

FROM SMALL SPACES TO LARGE LOADS

And since these models don't require a vent, they can be installed in any room with electricity and a water source — making them a great choice for tiny homes, accessory dwelling units (e.g., apartment over the garage), and additions.

Why do heat pump dryers leave clothes damp?

This is normal and not a malfunction in any way. On these appliances, it may seem that the appliance is not heating for an extended period of time at the start of a drying cycle. This is because all the heat pump's energy is used to heat and evaporate water/moisture in the clothing.

What is the life expectancy of a heat pump dryer?

Heat pump dryer: energy-efficient from A+++

This example is based on a dryer that lasts up to 10 years on average, depending on its usage.

Should I buy a vented or heat pump dryer?

If a fast drying speed is the key factor for you, a vented model might be your preference. If space, budget and lifestyle allow, however, and you're happy with the slightly longer drying times that come with reduced energy usage and running costs, a heat pump clothes dryer is probably the best choice.

Do you have to empty water from a heat pump tumble dryer?

Before the water is pumped to the water tank, it is collected in a large container. Upon general use, the water must be emptied after every cycle.

Why are heat pump dryers so slow?

While conventional tumble dryers release hot air used to dry clothes, heat pump technology conserves and reuses it. It will take longer to dry clothing as the maximum temperature reached is 50°C. In comparison, the maximum temperature reached in a condenser dryer is 70-75 °C.

Do heat pump dryers qualify for tax credits?

No, washers and dryers do not qualify for an energy tax credit, but ENERGY STAR-certified electric heat pump clothes dryers may be eligible for rebates under the High-Efficiency Electric Home Rebate Program in the future. Check the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit for more details.

Where does the water go in a heat pump dryer?

A heat pump tumble dryer absorbs the water from your laundry by passing hot air through the drum. This air then goes through an evaporator which removes the water and stores it in the tumble dryers' reservoir.

What are the problems with heat pump dryers?

Longer drying time: A heat pump dryer takes from 15 to 30 minutes longer to dry a load. Needs more maintenance: All that lint has to go somewhere. Most of it is captured by filters that need cleaning. But some collects on the condenser and evaporator coils, which also need to be cleaned periodically.

What is the main disadvantage of a heat pump?

Heat Pumps Rely on Electricity.

Since the primary power source of a heat pump is electricity, power outages can interrupt operation. Of course, many traditional HVAC systems share this limitation; investing in an auxiliary power source can limit your risks.

Why are vented dryers being phased out?

Air-vented dryers draw air from the room in which they are installed, heat it and lead it through the humid clothing in the drum to evaporate the moisture. The humid air is then expelled to the external environment. Air-vented dryers thus require an exhaust to the outside, making them less practical.

Should I switch to heat pump dryer?

Compared to a conventional electric model, an ENERGY STAR certified heat pump dryer could save you more than $500 in electricity costs over the life of the product. Before you replace your dryer with another conventional model, consider an ENERGY STAR certified heat pump dryer instead!

What is the best type of dryer to buy?

If you can't avoid using your dryer all year round, opt for one with a high energy efficiency score or a heat pump condenser dryer. They cost more to buy but are cheaper to run so they can save you money in the long run. The more you use your dryer, the better an option this becomes.

How much longer do heat pump dryers take?

People often don't realise that heat pump dryers can take up to 50% longer than a conventional dryer. This is due to using lower temperatures to dry your clothes, but it's worth the wait, as it protects the condition of your clothes, keeping them looking like new!

Can you leave a heat pump dryer unattended?

No. To avoid a fire hazard you should always ensure that you don't leave your dryer running when you're not at home.

What is the most reliable heat pump brand?

6 Qualities of the Best Heat Pump You Should Know
  • 1- Daikin. ...
  • 2- Mitsubishi Electric. ...
  • 3- Bosch. ...
  • 4- Carrier. ...
  • 5- Trane. ...
  • 6- Lennox. ...
  • 7- Goodman. ...
  • 8- Rheem. Rheem heat pumps are known for their high-quality construction and energy-saving features.

What are the limitations of a heat pump dryer?

❎ Cons. Longer Drying Time: Clothes take longer to dry because of the lower heat and gentler process. Smaller Capacity: Many models have a smaller drum, which might not work for large households. Higher Price Tag: These models are more expensive than traditional dryers.

Why does my heat pump dryer take so long to dry clothes?

Because heatpump dryers dry at a lower temperature they can take longer to complete the drying cycle than a condenser model without heatpump technology. The best way to check the drying time is on the energy label.

How often do you have to empty a heat pump tumble dryer?

We recommend emptying every time you use it. Do heat pump dryers take longer to dry? Yes they do but they will save you money as they use much less energy than condenser dryers.

What's better, a heat pump or a condenser dryer?

When compared to a heat pump dryer, a condenser dryer can be costly and is less energy efficient. Using a closed-loop heat exchange system, heat pump tumble dryers dry clothes at a lower temperature, keeping energy usage low and providing better protection for your laundry.

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