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The Best Heat Pump Dryers: A Comprehensive Guide

Salta Berdikeeva, May 29, 2025May 29, 2025

A heat pump dryer is changing how we dry our clothes at home. This smart machine saves much more energy than a regular dryer and is gentler on your clothes, too. Unlike old-style dryers that blow hot air outside, a heat pump dryer uses clever technology to reuse the hot air again and again. This means it uses far less electricity. Tests show that European heat pump dryers use only 40–50% as much energy as conventional North American dryers to dry the same amount of laundry. A heat pump dryer is becoming a popular choice for people who want to save money and help the environment. This guide will show you the best heat pump clothes dryer you can buy today, what makes it special, and why so many families are making the switch.

Quick Summary

  • Heat pump clothes dryers use 50% less energy than standard dryers, saving money on electricity bills and reducing environmental impact.
  • Top brands like LG, Miele, Bosch, Whirlpool, and Samsung offer heat pump dryers with features such as large capacity, smart controls, and gentle fabric care.
  • Heat pump dryers do not need venting, making them ideal for apartments and tight spaces. But they have a higher upfront cost and longer drying times than conventional dryers.

What Is a Heat Pump Clothes Dryer?

A heat pump clothes dryer works differently than a regular dryer. Instead of using a heater and sending hot air outside, it uses a special system that reuses the same air again and again.

Here’s how it works:

  • The dryer pulls in air and heats it.
  • The hot air moves through the clothes to dry them.
  • The air then goes through a cooling system where moisture is removed.
  • After that, the same air is heated again and sent back through the clothes.

This closed-loop system is very efficient. It’s like how an air conditioner works, but in reverse. It uses special coils and refrigerant to do the job without wasting energy.

Heat pump dryer

Why Heat Pump Dryers Are Worth Your Money

Heat pump dryers offer several benefits that make them a smart investment for most families.

Save Money on Your Electric Bill with a Heat Pump Dryer

Using a heat pump dryer is one of the best ways to slash your energy bills. It uses about half the energy of regular electric dryers. If you live in a colder climate, combining a highly efficient heat pump with a heat pump clothes dryer can save even more energy and keep you comfortable. If your current dryer costs you $108 per year to run, a heat pump dryer would only cost about $54. That’s $54 back in your pocket every year.

Over ten years, you could save more than $500 on electricity costs. Many heat pump dryers also have Energy Star ratings, which means they meet strict energy-saving rules. Some areas offer cash rebates when you buy an Energy Star heat pump dryer.

Keep Your Clothes Looking New Longer

Heat pump dryers use lower temperatures to dry your laundry, which means less heat damage to your clothes. High heat can make colors fade, cause shrinking, and break down fabric fibers over time.

With a heat pump dryer, your clothes will last longer and look better. This is especially important for expensive items like wool sweaters or your favorite jeans. The money you save by not replacing clothes as often adds up quickly. Using eco-friendly laundry practices alongside your heat pump dryer maximizes both energy savings and fabric care.

Install Anywhere in Your Home

Heat pump dryers don’t need a vent to the outside. Regular dryers must be connected to a tube that goes through your wall to blow hot air outside. This limits where you can put them.

Heat pump dryers can go anywhere you have space and an electrical outlet. This makes them perfect for apartments, condos, basements, or closets. Moreover, you don’t need to cut holes in walls or hire a contractor. Just plug it in and start drying. This flexibility is especially valuable for apartment dwellers looking for smart home solutions.

Lower Risk of House Fires

Regular dryers create lint that can build up in the vent tube going outside. This lint can catch fire if it gets too hot, which causes thousands of dryer fires every year. Since heat pump dryers don’t use outside vents, there’s much less chance of dangerous lint buildup.

You still need to clean the lint filter after every load, but the fire risk is much lower. This gives families peace of mind, especially in older homes or apartments.

The Best Heat Pump Dryers in 2025

Now let’s look at the best heat pump dryers available right now. Each one has different features and prices, so you can find one that fits your family’s needs and budget.

1. LG DLHC1455W – Best Overall Heat Pump Dryer

Capacity: 4.2 cubic feet
Energy Star Certified: Yes
Smart Features: ThinQ app, Wi-Fi connection
Price Range: High

The LG DLHC1455W stands out as one of the best heat pump clothes dryers you can buy. It combines excellent energy savings with modern technology that makes doing laundry easier and more convenient.

What Makes It Great:

  • Large capacity means fewer loads of laundry
  • 14 different drying settings for all types of clothes
  • TurboSteam feature removes wrinkles without washing
  • Smart Diagnosis helps fix problems through your phone
  • Works with smart home systems

Things to Consider:

  • Costs more than basic models
  • Takes longer to dry clothes than regular dryers
  • Needs regular maintenance to work best

This LG model uses up to 50% less energy than standard dryers, which means big savings on your electric bill. The TurboSteam feature is really helpful because it can refresh clothes that have been sitting in your closet or remove wrinkles from items you forgot in the dryer. You can control it from your phone, which means you can start a load while you’re at work or get notified when your clothes are ready.

2. Miele TWI180 WP – Best for Fabric Care

Capacity: 4.1 cubic feet
Energy Star Certified: Yes
Special Features: FragranceDos system, PerfectDry sensor
Price Range: Premium

Miele makes some of the highest quality appliances in the world, and their TWI180 WP heat pump dryer shows why they have such a good reputation. This machine is built to last for many years and treats your clothes with extra care.

What Makes It Great:

  • Honeycomb drum design is super gentle on fabrics
  • FragranceDos adds fresh scent to your clothes
  • EcoDry technology keeps saving energy over time
  • Many special programs for different types of clothes
  • Built to last much longer than cheaper models

Things to Consider:

  • Most expensive option on our list
  • Smaller capacity than some other models
  • Replacement parts cost more than other brands

The Miele TWI180 WP uses a special PerfectDry system that actually tests the minerals in your water to figure out exactly how long and how hot to dry your clothes. This means every load comes out perfectly dry without being damaged by too much heat. The build quality is excellent, and many Miele appliances last 15-20 years with proper care.

3. Bosch 800 Series WTW87NH1UC – Quietest Operation

Capacity: 4.0 cubic feet
Energy Star Certified: Yes
Unique Feature: Home Connect app
Price Range: High

Bosch brings German engineering to the heat pump dryer market with their 800 Series model. This dryer is perfect for homes where the laundry room is close to bedrooms or living areas because it runs very quietly.

What Makes It Great:

  • Self-cleaning condenser means less work for you
  • 15 different drying cycles including steam refresh
  • Very quiet at only 61 decibels (quieter than most dishwashers)
  • Won Energy Star Most Efficient award
  • German engineering means reliable operation

Things to Consider:

  • Smaller capacity than full-size regular dryers
  • Premium price tag
  • Some users find the controls confusing at first

The Bosch 800 Series really shines with its quiet operation. At 61 decibels, it’s quieter than most normal conversations. The self-cleaning condenser is a huge advantage because it means you don’t have to take apart the machine to clean it regularly. It cleans itself automatically, which keeps it running efficiently for years.

4. Whirlpool WHD560CHW – Best Value for Large Families

Capacity: 7.4 cubic feet
Energy Star Certified: Yes
Notable Feature: Advanced Moisture Sensing
Price Range: Moderate

Whirlpool’s heat pump dryer offers the best balance of features and price. With its large capacity, it’s perfect for big families who do lots of laundry every week.

What Makes It Great:

  • Largest capacity on our list – great for big families
  • Wrinkle Shield keeps clothes from getting wrinkled for up to 150 minutes
  • Easy-to-use touch controls
  • More affordable than other heat pump dryers
  • Good warranty and customer service

Things to Consider:

  • Fewer fancy features than premium models
  • Basic design isn’t as stylish as competitors
  • Takes up more space than compact models

The Whirlpool WHD560CHW stands out because it can handle really big loads of laundry. If you have a family of four or more, this capacity will save you time by letting you dry more clothes at once. The Advanced Moisture Sensing technology prevents over-drying, which can damage clothes and waste energy. This feature automatically stops the cycle when your clothes reach the perfect dryness level.

5. Samsung DV22N6800HW – Best for Small Spaces

Capacity: 4.0 cubic feet
Energy Star Certified: Yes
Special Features: Sensor Dry, Smart Care, Wi-Fi
Price Range: Moderate

Samsung’s compact heat pump dryer is perfect for apartments, condos, or small laundry rooms. Despite its smaller size, it still offers smart features and excellent energy savings.

What Makes It Great:

  • Compact size fits in tight spaces
  • Smart Care helps fix problems through your phone
  • Wi-Fi lets you control it from anywhere
  • Very energy efficient
  • Good price for the features you get

Things to Consider:

  • Smaller capacity means more loads for big families
  • Longer drying times than regular dryers
  • Some smart features require Samsung account

The Samsung model’s compact design makes it ideal for apartments or homes with small laundry areas. The Smart Care feature is really helpful because it can figure out what’s wrong with your dryer and tell you how to fix it through your smartphone. The Sensor Dry technology makes sure clothes are dried just right to prevent damage and save energy.

How Much Money Does a Heat Pump Dryer Really Save?

To show how much energy heat pump dryers can save, let’s look at a comparison table:

Dryer TypeAnnual Energy UseEstimated Annual Cost10-Year Total Cost
Standard Electric900 kWh$108$1,080
Heat Pump450 kWh$54$540
Your Savings450 kWh$54/year$540 over 10 years

Note: Costs based on average U.S. electricity rate of $0.12/kWh. Your actual savings may be higher or lower depending on your local electricity rates.

As you can see, heat pump dryers can cut your drying costs in half. The $540 you save over ten years can help pay for the higher purchase price of the heat pump dryer. Plus, if electricity rates go up (which they usually do), your savings will be even bigger. Understanding your energy bill can help you calculate your exact potential savings.

What to Look for When Shopping for a Heat Pump Clothes Dryer

Choosing the right heat pump dryer for your home means thinking about several important factors. Here’s what you should consider to make sure you get the best dryer for your needs and budget.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

All heat pump dryers save energy, but some are better than others. Look for models with Energy Star certification. This label means the dryer meets strict energy-saving standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Energy Star heat pump dryers use at least 20% less energy than regular models.

Some dryers also have CEE (Consortium for Energy Efficiency) ratings. CEE Tier 1 dryers are good, while CEE Tier 2 and Tier 3 dryers are even better at saving energy. The more efficient your dryer, the more money you’ll save on electricity bills over time.

Choosing the Right Size

Heat pump dryers come in different sizes, and picking the right capacity is important for your family’s needs. Here’s how to choose:

  • Small Capacity (3.0-4.0 cubic feet): Good for 1-2 people, apartments, or as a second dryer. These models take up less space and cost less to buy.
  • Medium Capacity (4.1-5.5 cubic feet): Perfect for families of 3-4 people. These offer a good balance of size and efficiency.
  • Large Capacity (5.6+ cubic feet): Best for families of 5 or more, or people who do laundry less often but in bigger loads.

Remember that bigger isn’t always better. A dryer that’s too big for your needs will waste energy and space. A dryer that’s too small will make you do more loads, which wastes time.

Smart Features

Many new heat pump dryers come with smart features that can make your life easier. Here are the ones worth paying extra for:

  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: Lets you start, stop, and monitor your dryer from your phone. You can get notifications when your clothes are done, which prevents wrinkles from sitting too long.
  • Moisture Sensing: Automatically detects how much moisture is left in your clothes and adjusts the drying time. This prevents over-drying and saves energy.
  • Steam Functions: Uses steam to reduce wrinkles and freshen clothes without a full wash cycle. Great for clothes that have been sitting in your closet.
  • Self-Cleaning Condenser: Automatically cleans the part of the dryer that removes moisture from the air. This keeps your dryer working efficiently without you having to clean it manually.

Price and Warranty

Heat pump dryers usually cost more to buy than regular dryers. But the money you save on energy over time can make up for the higher price. Look for warranties that cover parts and work, to give you peace of mind and protect your investment. When investing in a heat pump clothes dryer, check for rebates under the Inflation Reduction Act to make your home more energy-efficient and save even more money.

Installing Your Heat Pump Dryer

One of the best things about heat pump clothes dryers is how easy they are to install compared to regular dryers. Here’s what you need to know:

No Venting Required

Unlike traditional dryers that need a big tube going outside, heat pump dryers don’t need any outside venting. This means you can put them anywhere in your home where you have:

  • Enough space around the dryer for air circulation
  • A standard electrical outlet (most use 120V, not 240V like regular electric dryers)
  • Level flooring
  • Access for loading and unloading clothes

Dealing with Water

Heat pump dryers remove moisture from your clothes, and that water has to go somewhere. You have two options:

  • Water Tank: Most heat pump dryers collect water in a tank that you empty after every few loads. This is easy but requires you to remember to empty it.
  • Direct Drain: Many models can be connected directly to a drain, utility sink, or standpipe. This is more convenient because you never have to empty a tank, but you need access to a drain connection.

Space Requirements

While heat pump dryers don’t need venting space, they do need room for air circulation. Leave at least 3-4 inches on the sides and back, and make sure there’s good airflow around the machine. Poor airflow can make the dryer work harder and use more energy.

How to Take Care of Heat Pump Dryers

Heat pump dryers need a bit more maintenance than regular dryers, but it’s not difficult. Following these simple steps will keep your dryer working efficiently for many years:

After Every Load

  • Clean the lint filter completely
  • Check that the water tank isn’t full (if your dryer uses one)
  • Make sure the door seals are clean and free of lint

Once a Month

  • Clean the condenser (the part that removes moisture from the air)
  • Wipe down the drum with a damp cloth
  • Check that vents and air passages aren’t blocked

Every Few Months

  • Clean around and behind the dryer
  • Check all connections if using direct drain
  • Inspect the door seal for wear or damage

Most heat pump dryers have indicators that tell you when maintenance is needed. Some even have self-cleaning condensers that reduce the work you need to do.

How Heat Pump Dryers Help the Environment

Beyond saving money on your electric bill, heat pump clothes dryers are much better for the environment than regular dryers. Here’s how they help:

Lower Carbon Footprint

Because heat pump dryers use about half the electricity of regular dryers, they create much less pollution from power plants. If everyone in America switched to heat pump dryers, it would be like taking millions of cars off the road in terms of energy savings.

Less Heat Released into Your Home

Regular dryers pump hot air outside, which can make your air conditioner work harder in the summer. Heat pump dryers don’t release hot air, so they don’t make your cooling system work overtime. This saves even more energy and money.

Better Refrigerants

Newer heat pump dryers use refrigerants with lower global warming potential. This means if the refrigerant ever leaks, it has less impact on climate change than older types of refrigerants.

Who Should Buy a Heat Pump Dryer?

Heat pump clothes dryers aren’t right for everyone, but they’re perfect for many families. Here’s who benefits most:

Great For:

  • Families who want to save money on electricity bills
  • People who care about helping the environment
  • Anyone living in apartments or homes without dryer venting
  • Families with delicate clothes that need gentle care
  • People who plan to stay in their home for several years

Maybe Not Right For:

  • Families who need clothes dried very quickly
  • People who move frequently and don’t want to invest in expensive appliances
  • Those with very tight budgets who can’t afford the higher upfront cost

Wrapping Up

Heat pump clothes dryers represent a big step forward in laundry technology. While they cost more upfront and take longer to dry clothes than regular dryers, the benefits make them worthwhile for many families. The energy savings, gentler fabric care, and installation flexibility make them an excellent long-term investment.

As electricity costs continue to rise and more people worry about environmental impact, heat pump dryers will likely become even more popular. For families willing to pay more now to save money and help the environment over time, a heat pump clothes dryer is an excellent choice.

When choosing the best heat pump dryer for your home, think about your family size, budget, space requirements, and which features matter most to you. With the options available today, there’s likely a heat pump dryer that’s perfect for your home and laundry habits.

The money you save on electricity, the longer life of your clothes, and the peace of mind from helping the environment make heat pump clothes dryers a smart choice for modern families. Take time to compare models, read reviews, and check for rebates in your area. Your future self will thank you for making this smart investment in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Pump Dryers

What is a heat pump clothes dryer and how does it work?
A heat pump dryer reuses warm air to dry clothes instead of venting it outside. It heats air, pulls moisture from your clothes, cools the air to remove the moisture, then reheats the same air to continue drying—making it very energy efficient.

Do heat pump dryers save money?
Yes, they use about 50% less energy than regular electric dryers. That can save you around $54 per year on electricity—adding up to over $500 in 10 years.

Are heat pump dryers better for small spaces?
Definitely. They don’t need a vent, so you can install them in tight places like closets or apartments—just plug them into a standard outlet.

Do heat pump dryers dry clothes as fast as regular dryers?
No, they usually take longer to dry clothes. But they use lower temperatures, which helps protect fabrics and reduce wear and tear on clothing.

Blogging Bosch 800 Seriesenergy star certifiedgentler fabric careheat pump clothes dryerLG DLHC1455Wlower carbon footprintMiele TWI180 WPmoisture sensingno venting requiredreduced lint buildupSamsung DV22N6800HWself-cleaning condensersmart featuressteam functionsWhirlpool WHD560CHW

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