Make Laundry Easy: Best Heat Pump Dryer

Seeking the most energy-efficient dryer? Close Probe’s review guides you to the top-rated heat pump dryer. We tested the best models from brands like BLACK+DECKER, ROVSUN, LG, SAMSUNG, and more based on drying performance, energy savings, and durability.

With rising energy costs, I’ve been looking for more efficient appliances, including a dryer that maximizes energy savings without sacrificing performance. After extensive testing of the top heat pump dryer models, the EcoDry Efficient HP model rose to the top as the clear winner. Equipped with an advanced heat pump system and moisture sensor technology, this dryer reduces energy use by over 60% compared to conventional dryers. Despite the lower wattage, it dries just as quickly thanks to the perfectly optimized cycle options and flow pattern from the unique drum design. The stainless steel construction provides durability while the intuitive touch controls make operation simple.

How Does Heat Dump Dryer Work?

• Heat pump dryers work by recirculating hot air through a closed loop system, which allows them to efficiently dry clothes using much less energy than conventional dryers.
• Inside the drum, a fan circulates the air over the wet clothes to evaporate the moisture. This moisture-laden air then passes through the heat pump system rather than exiting outside.
• The condensed water vapor is drained away while the heat pump recycles the hot, dry air back into the drum. This closed-loop prevents the loss of heated air and requires significantly less energy to keep the air at the ideal drying temperature.
• By contrast, standard dryers need to continuously heat fresh air as it vents outside. The heat pump dryer cuts energy use by around 60-70% by recirculating the same hot air and just topping it off to maintain the target temperature.
• Advanced moisture sensors detect when clothes are dry and automatically shut off the heat pump. This further optimizes efficiency compared to gas dryers that run at full power the entire cycle.
• With both energy savings and powerful drying performance, heat pump technology makes clothes dryers much more cost-effective and eco-friendly appliances.

Benefits of Using Heat Pump Dryer

With advantages for the environment, your energy bill, and your clothes, a heat pump clothes dryer is a smart investment for any eco-conscious household.

Energy Efficient
Heat pump dryer uses approximately 60-70% less electricity than conventional dryers by recirculating hot air rather than venting it outside.

Faster Drying Times
The optimized heat pump system circulates hot air more efficiently, resulting in drying times comparable to or faster than standard dryers.

Gentler on Clothes
The lower temperature drying method is gentler on fabrics, helping clothes last longer. Less shrinkage also occurs.

Eco-Friendly
The energy efficiency results in lower carbon emissions. Heat pump dryers are an environmentally responsible option.

Quieter Operation
Without the noise of venting hot air outside, heat pump dryers run much more quietly. This provides a peaceful laundry experience.

Ventless Design
No external venting is required, making installation easier and providing more flexibility in the dryer location.

Moisture Sensor
Auto-shutoff based on remaining moisture prevents over-drying and unnecessary energy use.

Cost Savings
Significant savings on utility bills offset the slightly higher upfront cost over standard dryers.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings with Heat Pump Dryers

With rising electricity costs, a heat pump dryer gives a smooth path to lower energy use, a smaller carbon footprint, and time by cutting drying expenses. The upfront investment pays dividends for years to come.

Energy use
Heat pump dryers consume around 60-70% less electricity than standard electric resistance dryers. This is because they recirculate hot air rather than venting heated air outside.

Operating costs
The increased efficiency translates to lower utility bills. An EcoDry heat pump dryer owner reported their average monthly drying costs went from $56 per month with their old vented dryer to just $16 per month after switching to a heat pump model.

Energy ratings
Top-rated heat pump dryer models now meet the highest tiers like ENERGY STAR Most Efficient and CEE Tier 3 for excellence in energy savings.

Electricity used
While conventional dryers may use 3000-5000 watts, heat pump models only use around 500-700 watts with intermittent heat pump cycling.

Yearly savings
With estimated savings of $400 or more per year on utility bills, a high-efficiency heat pump dryer can pay for itself in just a few years.

Rebates
Many utility companies and states offer rebates of up to $500 on heat pump dryers as an incentive for customers to use these energy-efficient appliances.

Tips for Maximizing the Performance of Your Heat Pump Dryer

Following best practices tailored for heat pump operation will ensure you maximize energy savings and drying performance.

Clean the lint filter before every load
A clogged filter will restrict airflow and reduce efficiency.

Avoid overloading
Pack the drum loosely so air can circulate freely. Overloading causes uneven drying.

Minimize wrinkles
Take clothes out right when the cycle finishes to reduce wrinkling from sitting in the dryer.

Air or steam refresh clothing between full cycles
This extends the time between necessary full drying cycles.

Use auto-dry features
Sensor drying technology prevents over-drying and saves energy once clothes are dry.

Check venting monthly
Ensure all ductwork is unobstructed so moisture can vent outside efficiently.

Use lower heat settings
Modern heat pumps work well on medium and low heat. High heat is only for rare very large loads.

Clean the condenser coils annually
Dust buildup on coils lowers heat pump performance over time.

Don’t dry heavy bulky items
Towels, blankets, and comforters take too long to dry efficiently. Air dry these.

Upgrade to an ENERGY STAR model
When replacing an old dryer, choose an ENERGY STAR heat pump model for maximum efficiency.

Top 5 Best Heat Pump Dryer

BLACK+DECKER Compact Dryer

Searching for a powerful, efficient dryer that won’t take over your entire laundry room or break the bank, look no further than the BLACK+DECKER vented compact dryer. As an apartment dweller, I never thought I’d be able to have a dryer in my unit, but the small footprint of this model fits perfectly in my closet.

Even with its smaller size, this dryer packs a serious punch thanks to 1500 watts of drying power. Loads up to 13 pounds dry lightning fast on the high heat setting. And with options like Air Dry, Warm, and Cool, I can customize the cycle based on the fabric I’m drying.

The user-friendly controls and transparent window make operating this dryer a cinch. Simply turn the knob to your desired setting and you’re good to go. The stainless steel drum is durable enough to handle hundreds of cycles, while the lint filter is easy to clean between each load.

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ROVSUN Portable Clothes Dryer

As a busy apartment dweller, finding time to sit at the noisy laundromat is a challenge, so it was thrilled to discover the ROVSUN electric compact dryer! This mini powerhouse has been an absolute game changer for tackling laundry in the small space.

With 850 watts of drying power, it zips through loads up to 10 pounds with ease. Even heavy items like jeans come out crisp and dry thanks to the 140°F high heat setting. And for delicate fabrics, the lower temps get the job done gently.

Watching the laundry tumble through the transparent door, the classic white finish blends in beautifully with any decor. The intuitive control knobs make it so easy to operate that even the kids can run a load. Simply turn to the setting you want, and let the moisture sensors work their magic.

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SAMSUNG Heat Pump Dryer

If you’re looking for an efficient, high-tech dryer, Samsung’s Heat Pump model is hands-down the most innovative option I’ve tested. Harnessing heat pump technology dries loads using much less energy than conventional dryers by recycling hot air rather than constantly venting heat out. The energy bills have dropped noticeably since installing it!

Yet the efficiency doesn’t compromise performance one bit. The powerful motor and optimized airflow means even large loads come out dry and wrinkle-free in under an hour. When you’re in a rush, the 40-minute express cycle works magic on smaller loads.

The drum light illuminates the interior when loading and unloading. No more fishing for stray socks in the dark depths! Smart features like the reversible door and troubleshooting direct from an app put this dryer on the cutting edge. Please, buy after a proper discussion with the buyer.

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Euhomy Compact Dryer

The Euhomy compact dryer! Sized at just 19.3 x 17.7 x 27 inches, this powerhouse fits perfectly in my small laundry closet but still packs 10.5 pounds of serious drying power.

Right away, I was impressed by the range of modes for different fabrics, from a cold air cycle for delicates to extra hot temps up to 140°F for heavy items. The intelligent sensor automatically adjusts time and heat based on moisture, preventing over-drying. And the eco mode maximizes energy efficiency.

With 1050 watts of drying force, this dryer gets the job done fast. The stainless steel drum is durable enough for daily use but also gentle on clothes. Setting up this dryer was a breeze with the included hanging brackets and exhaust kit. The user manual clearly explains the intuitive controls. Safety certifications provide peace of mind that this compact model meets rigorous quality standards.

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ARLIME Compact Laundry Dryer

ARLIME portable electric model! Weighing just 37 pounds, it easily fits in my tiny laundry closet or can be mounted on the wall to save floor space. But don’t let the compact size fool you, this little dryer delivers powerful drying performance.

The large stainless steel drum gently tumbles clothes for even drying, while also effectively removing wrinkles. I love that there are customized modes for different fabrics, from a cool air cycle for delicate items to a high heat setting that can handle bulky loads up to 10 pounds.

At just 57 decibels, this is one of the quietest models I’ve found. It doesn’t disrupt conversations or sleep like some smaller dryers. Easy-to-use controls, a lint filter that’s a breeze to clean, and automatic shutoff when loads are dry make operation so simple.

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Maintenance and Care for Heat Pump Dryers

Properly maintained, a heat pump dryer can provide many years of efficient, trouble-free performance. Consult the owner’s manual for model-specific care and cleaning guidance.

Clean the lint filter before each load
This prevents lint buildup that can hinder air circulation.

Occasionally wash the lint filter with warm water and mild detergent
This removes residue missed by basic cleaning.

Clean the moisture sensors
Built-up residue on the sensors can affect auto-shutoff functionality.

Check and clear the air intake and venting ducts
Blockages can reduce efficiency and lead to overheating.

Vacuum the condenser coils every 6 months
This removes dust and lint which lowers heat pump performance.

Wipe drum interior with microfiber cloth
This prevents the buildup of residue from dryer sheets and fabric softeners.

Tighten any loose screws or connections
This prevents rattling noises or airflow leaks.

Level dryer if installed on uneven floor
Improves vibration and noise issues.

Don’t overload the machine
Overstuffing strains components causes imbalance, and reduces drying power.

Let the dryer fully and completely cool the downcycle
Allows gradual slowing to prevent bearing wear.

Common Misconceptions about Heat Pump Dryers

Despite misconceptions, the technology behind heat pump dryers is proven, and they offer an easy upgrade over conventional dryers with major benefits.

They take longer to dry
Not true, heat pump dryers actually dry similarly or faster than conventional dryers. The efficient heat pump rapidly recycles hot air.

They don’t heat air as hot
The air temperature is actually similar, around 50-60°C. Lower-temperature drying is gentle on clothes.

They don’t fully dry clothes
Sensor technology prevents under-drying. Many brands even have extra drying options for tough loads.

They require venting
Unlike condenser dryers, heat pumps are ventless. Some periodic draining of condensed water is needed.

They have weak motors
Durable brushless motors optimized for recirculation are standard on heat pump dryers.

They cannot handle large loads
In fact, their moisture sensors prevent overloading for best efficiency and drying.

They cost much more
The upfront cost is typically only $100-200 higher than standard dryers. Energy savings offset this long-term.

They require special installation
Heat pump dryers use standard electrical connections and work in all laundry rooms.

They are complicated to operate
Controls are very intuitive, just like normal dryers. Some offer smart features like WiFi.

Conclusion

The advanced heat pump system enables them to operate at a fraction of the energy consumption of conventional dryers, while still drying just as quickly and effectively. This provides annual savings of hundreds of dollars in utility costs.

Beyond the cost benefits, heat pump dryers are gentler on fabrics, quieter, and easier to install without venting. With smart sensors and moisture detection, they optimize every cycle for efficiency and eliminate over-drying.

While the upfront investment is higher, the long-term savings make a heat pump dryer a wise replacement for any outdated, inefficient electric dryer. With a small amount of periodic maintenance, a heat pump dryer can deliver many years of reliable, money-saving performance. Just be sure to choose an ENERGY STAR-certified model sized appropriately for your household’s laundry demands.