21 Jan 2026
A smol tumble cheat sheet:
- Vented dryers are cheaper upfront, dry faster, but need to be near a wall or window.
- Condenser dryers can go almost anywhere, but may cost more and need the water tank emptied.
- The big difference? It’s all about where the moisture goes.
- Want flexibility? Go condenser. Need speed? Pick a vented.
We love a washing line moment as much as the next planet-lover… but let’s be real, tumble dryers are part of modern life. Endless rain, no outdoor space or simply no time, often mean line drying isn’t an option.
Yes, dryers use energy and yes, they cost a bit to run, but when you need one, you’ll want to choose the right type.
And first things first, there are 3 varieties for you to peruse (heat pump, condenser and vented) with the most common being vented or condenser.
what is a vented tumble dryer?
A vented tumble dryer is the classic type. It’s the one that sends moist air straight outside through a hose. That’s why it’s called “vented.”
How it works:
- it pulls in air, heats it, and blasts it through your wet laundry.
- the warm, damp air then exits the machine via a hose.
- this hose must be pointed outside (through a window or vent in the wall).
Vented dryers can be faster and cheaper to buy BUT they need a spot near an external wall or window.
what is a condenser tumble dryer?
A condenser tumble dryer doesn’t need a vent. It stores the water in a tank inside the machine. You empty this tank every so often (or plumb it in permanently).
How it works:
- it heats air and circulates it through your clothes.
- instead of venting the damp air, it cools it back down into water.
- that water collects in a tank you can slide out and empty.
Condenser dryers are ideal for homes without an external vent, or if your dryer lives in a room without a handy wall hole.
condenser vs vented: the main differences.
FEATURE | VENTED | CONDENSER |
Moisture removal | Vents air outside | Collects water in tank |
Placement | Near wall or window | Anywhere |
Energy use | Slightly more efficient | Some models more energy hungry |
Upkeep | No tank to empty just clean the filter | Empty the tank and the filter |
Drying speed | Usually faster | Slightly slower |
Purchase cost | Cheaper | More expensive |
vented tumble pros and cons.
PROS | CONS |
Cheaper to buy | Needs outside vent |
Faster drying | Must be near window or wall |
No tank to empty | More work to install |
condenser tumble pros and cons.
PROS | CONS |
Can go anywhere | Need to empty the tank |
No need for hoses or vents | More expensive |
Easy to install | Slower to dry |
so which type should you buy?
It depends on what matters most to you.
If you’re after a quick, budget-friendly dryer and have access to an outside wall, a vented version could be the one.
If you live in a flat and can’t cut holes in walls, or just want the freedom to put your dryer wherever you like? A condenser dryer is your best bet.
And if energy efficiency is also a priority, consider a heat pump condenser dryer. They dry clothes at lower temperatures so they’re kinder to the planet (and your energy bills), even if they take a little longer.
tumble dryer FAQs.
what is a vented tumble dryer?
It’s a dryer that removes moisture via a hose that vents outside. You’ll need to place it near a window or external wall.
do condenser tumble dryers need a hose?
No. They collect water in a tank inside the machine. Some models can be plumbed in, but it’s optional.
which is more energy efficient?
Generally, vented dryers use less energy per cycle. But for the ultimate efficiency, look at heat pump condenser dryers.
can I put a vented dryer anywhere?
No. You need a route for the hose to reach outside (usually a window, vent or hole).