Energy Efficient Heat Pump Washer Dryer
With the introduction of new federal incentives and awe-inspiring lab test results, the heat pump washer dryer is set to become a household staple. These all-in one machines are faster to wash and to dry, and they do not draw conditioned indoor air to vent.
They also utilize lower temperatures, which is gentler on clothes. Read on to find out more about this amazing laundry technology.
1. Energy Savings
Heat pumps aren't only used to cool and heat homes and offices, but they're also used to dry clothes. A dryer with a heat pump that is ENERGY START-certified consumes 28% less electricity than a conventional dryer, which will save you money on your electric bill. They operate at the lower temperature to lessen wear and tear and damage on your clothes.
During the drying process heat pump washer-dryers use the same air that's recycled through the washing machine, however it passes through a condenser coil in the evaporator unit to heat up and cool the air. Then the warm air is returned to the drum to continue drying the clothes. A heat pump dryer doesn't have to expel moisture-laden air, as vented dryers do.
It's important to make your appliances as energy efficient as possible, as laundry processes consume a lot of energy. The best way to do this is to pair an efficient washer with a dryer that uses a heat pump. This will enable you to maximize efficiency, and begin saving energy costs right away.
To begin, check out our selection of energy STAR certified washers and dryers. You can filter your results based on model, energy usage, wash cycles, and spin speed. Also, be sure to check the yellow Energy Guide label to understand the amount each appliance will cost each year.
Combination washer-dryers are a great option for those households who are unable to afford two separate units or don't have the space. These units connect to a standard 120-volt outlet and don't require a venting system or special hookups for 240-volts. These units are ideal for apartments and condominiums as they can be tucked away in a cupboard or under a counter.
2. Reduces Noise
The majority of traditional dryers for clothes are heated by an electric or gas coil. This helps evaporate moisture from your clothing. The air is then vented outside your home, taking with it the conditioned air that you're paying to keep cool in the summer and warm in winter. Your house has to be working overtime to compensate for the lost conditioning air by pulling in replacement air from cracks and gaps in your walls and around doors.
The heat pump washer dryers transfer humidity from one location to another, rather than heating it and then venting it. This is a great option for homeowners with homes that are too small to allow for additional air flow. It is also possible to install dryer and washer combinations in areas where a vented dryer would not be suitable like under the stairs. This will not affect the efficiency or energy efficiency.
All-in-one units have a number of advantages However, they also have some disadvantages. They take longer to complete their cycles than traditional washers and dryers and therefore it is important to set aside enough time for each load. In addition mixing two appliances into one reduces the amount of laundry you're able do at one time, since it takes approximately an hour longer for whites and colors to dry than in separate machines.
Thankfully, many manufacturers are beginning to address these issues by offering simple solutions. LG's top-rated washing-dryer combination, for example, has the option to prop the door slightly open when it's running to prevent water pooling and drying the drum. A number of LG models, including our top pick, have a tiny drainage hole in the bottom of the laundry tub that lets water drain rather than pooling. Additionally, you can purchase compressor sound blanket wraps that are fitted snugly over your heat pump to lessen its sound.
3. Reduces wear and tear
When a heat pump dryer works it doesn't heat up the air like a traditional dryer. It only extracts the moisture from the clothes, so it's far more gentle on fabrics than a traditional model. This saves energy, as it doesn't have to waste energy to heat the air for the drying process.
The dryers that use heat require more maintenance than standalone machines, because the condensate drainage tube must be cleaned regularly to avoid obstructions. However, this isn't that much different than cleaning a regular dryer.
The most notable difference is that heat pump washer-dryer combos don't vent, meaning you can put them in a home without cutting into the wall outside to run ductwork. This is a major plus for those who live in apartments, students, and others who don't wish to change their living spaces or spend more money for the purchase of a new appliance.
Heat-pump systems dry clothes slower than traditional dryers due to the fact that they don't get nearly as hot. Many people were reluctant to utilize them due to the fact that they don't attain the same temperature. However, manufacturers have improved their technology and the LG Signature LUWM101HWA heat pump dryer that is on our list of top dryers, has a typical drying time of 37 to 70 min.
It is crucial to avoid overdoing the detergent. This can lead to excessive suds that can prolong the process and leaves a slimy film on your clothes. (Readers frequently email us about this issue). Make sure you're using the recommended amount of high-efficiency detergents, and wash the dispenser drawer on a routine basis. This will ensure the machine is running as efficiently as it can and not wasting your energy and money.
4. Reduces Lint
A heat pump dryer uses less air to dry your clothes than a vented gas dryer or electric dryer. Going At this website is due to the fact that it doesn't blow hot, humid, air into your laundry, but instead, it extracts vapor at a room temperature from the air that surrounds your clothes. This vapor is heated by your washer and then used to remove the moisture from your laundry.
Due to this efficiency that a heat pump washer dryer isn't as heavy as a traditional vented gas or electric dryer, but it still weighs in the vicinity of 88 lbs. That can make a difference if you intend to mount it on the wall or use it in a closet that may not be large enough to accommodate a vent.
Lint build-up is a concern with all dryers. However the heat pump dryer's low temperatures limit the amount of lint that can clog up the exhaust and prevent the clothes from drying to their maximum potential. This also reduces the possibility of fire in the dryer, or in its exhaust. This can occur when the flammable solvents and oils in your laundry enter the dryer's evaporator or vent.
To reduce lint build-up Be sure to clean your dryer vent at least once a year (more often if you have children or pets). A leaf blower or wire brush can help you clear out any lint build-up between ridges in the accordion hose. It's safer to do this from outside instead of inside, if you can.
To prevent drying out, be sure to use a detergent that is low in suds and follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to set your water's level. Separate your laundry according to fabric type and wash delicates such as silk with heavy cottons and linens. You won't overdye or shrink your delicates and the moisture sensor will be able detect when your laundry is dry enough to end the cycle.
5. Saves Space
Heat pump dryers consume less energy as they reuse and recycle hot air. This means that they can save money in a variety of ways, not just in terms of costs for utilities, but also by cutting down on the amount of energy needed to warm or cool your home.
This process is gentler on fabrics and helps reduce shrinkage which is a huge benefit when dealing with expensive clothes. It also eliminates the need for vents that are blocked by lint, and also reduces the energy consumed by conventional dryers to warm the air before it enters the machine. This helps reduce your heating bills.
Heat pump washer-dryer combinations are designed to fit in small spaces, such as kitchens and closets. These all-in one machines only take just some inches over the top vented washers. Additionally, they're ventless, which means you can put them anywhere with water and a 120-volt outlet.
They are also simple to use. All you have to do is select the wash and dry cycle that's best for your load and let them do their job. Then, simply take your clothes off when they're ready.
With these energy-efficient, versatile machines, it's now easier than ever to wash your clothes without costing you a fortune. Shop online or head to a gorgeous Aztec Appliance showroom today to find your new washer-dryer combo that is a perfect fit for your home. We offer the best deals and promotions, rebates and financing options for upgrading your laundry room. We're here to help you choose the perfect dryer that meets your lifestyle and needs!