Number of drying programmes
The number of preset drying programmes. Such programmes are often optimized for a specific type of fabric: linen, silk, synthetics, etc. The more drying programmes, the more versatile and easier the dryer is to use. However, a specific set of modes in different models may be different, and even a large variety of programmes does not guarantee that one of them will be suitable. So before buying, it is advisable to specify not only the quantity but the list of claimed programmes.
Moisture sensor
Ability to choose the residual moisture content of the linen to be dried - from completely dry, which can be immediately put in the closet, to slightly dry, which is optimal for ironing. With
laundry moisture control, the user needs to select the desired residual moisture - the dryer will automatically control the condition of the laundry and stop drying at the right time.
Drying class
Drying class describes the overall drying efficiency that the machine provides. It is denoted by a Latin letter, where A is the best efficiency, and further in decreasing order (
drying class B is inferior to
class A, but exceeds
class C). Naturally, higher efficiency machines cost more (ceteris paribus).
Noise level
The noise level generated by the dryer during operation. Usually, the specs indicate the maximum volume of the device, in the noisiest mode — when other programmes are running, this figure may be lower. We note that the noise level also depends on the features of the installation: for example, if the machine does not stand firmly on all four legs, vibration from drum rotation can create additional noise. And the tiled walls amplify the sound by creating an echo. Nevertheless, it is best to evaluate the device precisely by the noise level stated in the specifications. And here it is worth bearing in mind that the decibel used to denote loudness is a non-linear value, and it is best to evaluate the actual loudness of the unit using comparative tables. Here is the simplest such table for the volume range in which modern dryers operate:
65 dB — a person's voice in raised tones at a distance of 1 m;
70 dB — a loud conversation of several people at the same distance;
75 dB — loud laughter at a distance of 1 m;
80 dB — motorcycle engine, medium power vacuum cleaner.
The quieter the machine is, the more comfortable it will be to use and the better it will be suitable for a specific environment (for example, if there is a small child in the house or if you plan to run drying at night). At the same time, it is worth considering not only the actual noise level but also the installation location of the device. If the dryer is planned to...be installed in the basement of a private house with thick ceilings and the bedroom is located on the second floor, you can not pay much attention to the noise level: even the loudest unit is unlikely to create inconvenience.
Door opening
The direction in which the door of the dryer opens.
Most users are right-handed, so from this point of view, the best option is
leftward opening — the free space for loading and unloading laundry is just under the right hand. However, specifically in dryers, the
rightward opening is noticeably more common. It is because such units usually complement washing machines and are most often installed side by side. And in most washers, the door opens just to the left (again, based on convenience for right-handed people). Therefore, it is most convenient to place the dryer on the right and equip it with a hatch that opens to the right — this will allow you to overload the laundry from washer to dryer with minimal effort and time. And vice versa, if the door in the washing machine opens to the right, then it is better to choose a dryer with a leftward opening and install it on the left.
Sometimes both machines are installed as a column — a dryer on top of a washing machine. In such cases, the hatches of both machines should open in one direction — this is more convenient both from the point of view of ergonomics and purely psychologically. Moreover, if the "column” adjoins the wall sideways, then the opening should also occur towards the wall; otherwise, the laundry will have to be loaded and unloaded through the space between the open hatch and the wall, which can be very inconvenient.
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Note that in some dryers both opening options are claimed. It usually means that the door has a reversible mount, and the direction of opening can be chosen at your discretion. However, this feature does not hurt to clarify before buying.Country of origin
The country in which, according to the manufacturer, the model is manufactured. Despite the fact that most of the capacities are concentrated in
China, European factories (in
Germany,
Poland,
Slovenia,
Turkey, etc.) for the production of household appliances have not gone away. And certain models can be produced there. In general, such a division into a Chinese or European factory should not particularly affect the quality of products, but the stereotype of a reliable European assembly is present in us. However, it is possible that the model may have a country of manufacture, for example, Poland, and in the store under the same article, you will meet China.
