BUYING GUIDE
When is a more efficient tumble dryer worth it?
Compare drying costs, programme time and installation. Use the current energy label to weigh a higher price against your own laundry routine.
THE SHORT ANSWER
The more often you tumble-dry, the more an energy saving can matter. Compare equally suitable machines using the same label units and a realistic number of drying cycles.
1. Count the loads you actually dry
Start with a normal week and consider which items you air-dry and which need the machine. Check garment care instructions rather than assuming every washed load can be tumble-dried. Think about bulky bedding separately from everyday clothing. Choose capacity and programmes for the loads you expect to dry together. If use changes with the seasons, estimate a yearly cycle count instead of multiplying your busiest week by 52.
2. Read the current label
The EU tumble-dryer label changed to an A–G scale in July 2025 and reports weighted electricity use per 100 eco drying cycles. It also shows capacity, full-load eco duration, noise and condensation efficiency. Do not compare its letter directly with an older A+++ label or mix annual kWh with kWh per 100 cycles. Use the current product information for both models. Real consumption depends on the programme, load and moisture remaining after washing.
3. Calculate the saving before paying a premium
Illustrative example: two machines use 100 and 140 kWh per 100 cycles. At three cycles a week, the difference is 62.4 kWh annually. With an assumed €0.30/kWh tariff, that saves €18.72 per year. A €150 purchase premium takes about eight years to recover from electricity alone. At one cycle a week, the saving falls to €6.24 annually. These scenarios assume constant usage and tariff, exclude other costs and do not predict appliance lifespan.
4. Check space, drainage and maintenance
Read the installation instructions for clearances and allowed room conditions. If you want to stack appliances, confirm that the exact combination and stacking kit are approved. Check whether you will empty a water container or can use an appropriate drain connection. Compare access for the cleaning tasks specified in the manual. Add delivery, installation and required accessories to the price, and make sure programme duration fits your household before making efficiency the deciding factor.
Before you buy
Sources & further reading
This is buying guidance, not a hands-on product test. Examples are illustrative; check the exact model and current retailer information.