When it comes to choosing a dryer for your home, you may be wondering if you should go with the newer technology of a ventless dryer. Both the traditional vented and the newer ventless dryers have their pros and cons, but it ultimately comes down to personal preference and lifestyle.
Ventless dryers
Ventless dryers, also known as condenser dryers, use a condensing system to dry clothes instead of venting the hot, moist air outside. This means that you can install them in any room of your home without needing a vent, making them a great option for apartments or small spaces. They are also energy-efficient and can save you money on your energy bills.
However, that moisture has to go somewhere! Most models use a pan to catch the condensed water that the user has to empty every so often to avoid an overflow. Ventless dryers also tend to be more expensive upfront, with prices ranging from $800 to $1,500. They take longer to dry clothes and can be less effective at removing moisture, resulting in slightly damp clothes. This can be frustrating and may require you to run the dryer multiple times to fully dry your laundry, also negating any energy savings.
Vented dryers
Vented dryers, on the other hand, use a traditional venting system to remove the hot, moist air from the dryer and release it outside. This means that you will need to have a vent installed in your home, which can be a hassle and an added expense if you don’t already have one installed. However, vented dryers are generally faster and more effective at drying clothes, resulting in less wrinkling and moisture.
Vented dryers are also typically cheaper upfront, with prices ranging from $500 to $1,000. You’ll need to have your vents cleaned by a professional at least once a year if you have a long run or lots of bends, but vented dryers rarely have major problems if this maintenance task is done regularly. The cost of repairs can vary depending on the problem, but it can range from $100 to $300 on average.
Which one is right for you?
Overall, both ventless and vented dryers have their benefits and drawbacks. From our perspective, the additional complications and moisture storage inherent in a ventless dryer should relegate it to the “last resort” category where a vent isn’t feasible (we are a repair company, after all). In other words, if you have a space where it would be costly to install a vent, a ventless dryer may be a good choice. For nearly all applications where a vent is already present or inexpensive to install, and if you value speed and effectiveness, a vented dryer may be a better fit. As with any large purchase, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your personal needs before deciding.
Here are some useful links for learning more about vented versus ventless dryers:
- How Ventless Dryers Work, via The Spruce: https://www.thespruce.com/how-ventless-dryers-work-2145837
- Another Comparison Article from Appliances Connection: https://www.appliancesconnection.com/blog/vented-vs-ventless-dryers
