The dryer raises room temperature by 2-5 degrees in the area approximately four feet around the machine. The dryer needs space to access room air.
Ventless models can fit under a counter or even in a closet, provided there is proper airflow and an electric socket. If you do use your dryer in a closet, you will need to open the doors while you're drying to maintain air circulation.
Behind: Allow about 6 inches behind the machines for venting space, hoses, cords and floor trim. Sides: Leave about an inch of space between and on each side of your washer and dryer to minimize noise.
While measuring, make sure to allow for at least six inches of space between the back wall and the appliance for hoses and ventilation, as well as one inch of clearance between the washer and dryer for side-by-side units.
Ventless Dryer Benefits
Efficiency: These dryers use less energy than a typical vented dryer by recycling the heated air rather than creating it. Ease of installation: The only requirements for a ventless dryer setup are the power receptacle, which needs either three or four prongs and adequate airflow around the unit.
Leave at least six inches of space between the back of the unit and the wall for wiring, hoses, and valves. If you're opting for a ventless dryer, you may not require the space behind the dryer, but you should still allow for rear space on the washing machine.
Ventless Dryer Cons:
First, they do cost more than vented dryers. They have small drums and cannot do larger loads. They will take two to three times longer to dry clothes. You will need to have a way to drain the water.
Installation clearances: The location must be large enough to allow the dryer door to open fully. Most installations require a minimum 5½" (140 mm) clearance behind the dryer for the exhaust vent with elbow. See “Venting Requirements.”
If you plan on installing an unusually big machine, this is definitely something you'll need to tell your builder or designer about. Standard spaces for front loading washing machines / dryers: Width: 800mm (average machine is 600-700mm wide) Depth: 800mm (average machine is 600-700mm deep)
Offset vents allow the dryer to be installed closer to the wall than a typical basement installation, using a 90-degree, 4-inch duct elbow on the dryer's discharge vent. (Some models allow a 3-inch clearance from the dryer to the wall.)
In general, you need at least 4” of extra room behind the dryer to account for the venting. Note that this is 4” in addition to whatever depth measurement is provided for the dryer.
Measure the space where you want the tumble dryer to live. Add 3cm onto the depth of the appliance you are considering for pipes needed for connection. This is important if you're choosing a vented model. You may need to leave extra room.
As a general rule, allow for at least 6 inches of depth behind the machines to accommodate these essential components. Additionally, ensure that you have a minimum of 3-4 feet of clearance in front of the appliances to allow for easy loading and unloading.
The systems in these models are designed to operate safely. Here's why: Heat management. Ventless dryers typically use lower temperatures than vented dryers, which reduces the risk of fire.
Where does the moisture go in a ventless dryer? Since ventless dryers are designed without the ducts that expel hot, moist air from the machine, the appliance condenses moisture from the air in the drum and either collects it in a removable drawer or expels it out of the dryer drum via a drain hose.
The minimum recommended distance is one inch: Additional spacing of 1" (25 mm) on all sides of the dryer is recommended to reduce noise transfer.
Clearance Space: Make sure there is enough clearance around the dryer to provide ample airflow, ventilation and easy access for maintenance and repairs. Water Drain (if applicable): Some condenser dryers require a water drain connection to remove the condensed water during the drying process.
A well-designed laundry room typically measures around 9 feet by 11 feet, providing ample space for appliances, storage, and work areas.
Place dryer at least 18 inches above the floor for a garage installation. Failure to do so can result in death, explosion or fire.
Dryer exhaust must not be connected into any gas vent, chimney, wall, ceiling, attic, crawlspace, or a concealed space of a building. Only rigid or flexible metal vent shall be used for exhausting. Only a 4" (102 mm) heavy metal exhaust vent and clamps ■ may be used.
A standard compact washer and dryer is typically the smallest size, each with a width of 24 inches, height of 33 to 36 inches and depth of 24 to 26 inches. For side-by-side placement, you'll need a space that's approximately 48 inches wide, 34 inches tall and 25 inches deep.
Since this is ventless, there's no real lint trap. Lint catches in the rubber valve around the front door opening, and a minuscule amount may catch in the drain filter located at the bottom right of the machine.
Condenser dryers are significantly more energy-efficient than standard vented models, since the same air is being reused. They're also easier on your clothes; since ventless dryers run significantly cooler than vented models, your clothes won't become overdried.
Ensure the window is open enough for hot air to escape, but remember, this isn't a safe long-term solution and can still pose fire and moisture risks. Indoor Venting Option: If you can't vent outside, you can use an indoor vent kit.