10 Best Energy-Efficient Dryers + How To Choose One

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When it comes to home appliances, your trusty dryer is the real electricity heavyweight. With the average American household juggling five laundry loads every week, that energy usage can quickly add up on your electric bill. That's where energy-efficient dryers can help minimize your monthly costs.

Energy-efficient dryers typically use heat pumps to recycle and reuse hot air. The result? Less energy consumed, lower utility costs, and a big win for the planet with a more eco-friendly laundry routine.

If you're looking for a new dryer, we've compiled a list of the top 10 most energy-efficient dryers from ENERGY STAR, as well as a few tips to help you choose the best one for your laundry needs. 

1. Blomberg - DHP24404W

Blomberg’s dryer ranks at the top of this list, boasting an estimated annual energy consumption of 217 kWh. With a compact design, a 4.5-cubic-foot drum capacity, and a speedy cycle time of approximately 67 minutes, this dryer is a perfect fit for smaller households. Beyond its energy efficiency, the Blomberg dryer offers additional features such as a sanitization cycle, filter cleaning indicator, steam cycle, and more.

• Average Price: $1,009
• Combined Energy Factor: 11
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 217

2. Beko - HPD24414W 

The Beko dryer is another top-tier option, with an estimated annual energy consumption of 217 kWh. Ideal for compact spaces, this dryer features the cutting-edge ProSmart™ Inverter Motor, ensuring not only noise reduction but high-end performance. If you live in a studio apartment, for example, running this dryer won't compromise your peace and quiet.

• Average Price: $1,749
• Combined Energy Factor: 11
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 217

3. Midea - MLE27N5AWWC 

The Midea ventless heat pump dryer, with its 4.4-cubic-foot capacity, stands out for its energy efficiency, clocking in at an estimated annual energy consumption of 236 kWh. Its compact 24-inch width makes it ideal for smaller spaces like condos, where venting may not be allowed. Boasting 16 cycles tailored for various load types—jeans, wool sweaters, mixed loads, and more—this versatile dryer can meet all of your laundry needs.

• Average Price: $850
• Combined Energy Factor: 10.14
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 236

4. Insignia - NS-FDRE44W1 

The Insignia ventless dryer has a compact 4.5-cubic-foot drum capacity and an estimated energy consumption of 236 kWh per year. This condensing ventless dryer features a moisture-collecting container that requires emptying after each use. Ideal for smaller spaces and those looking to save on their energy bill, this option stands out as the most affordable on our list.

• Average Price: $750
• Combined Energy Factor: 10.14
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 236

5. Miele - PDR908 HP

This energy-efficient Miele dryer, boasting a 4.6-cubic-foot drum capacity, showcases an estimated annual energy usage of 245 kWh. As a heat pump ventless dryer, it excels in both energy efficiency and performance, finishing each load in around 53 minutes.

• Average Price: $4,805
• Combined Energy Factor: 9.75
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 245

6. Asko - T411HS.W.U

The Asko heat pump ventless dryer has a 4.9-cubic-foot drum capacity and operates with an annual energy consumption of around 263 kWh. Featuring a brushless motor, this dryer offers a quiet run time. It includes 16 drying programs catering to different clothing types and extras such as an anti-crease function, filter cleaning indicator, and more.

• Average Price: $2,199
• Combined Energy Factor: 9.1
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 263

7. LG - WKHC252H*A 

A member of the 2023 WashTower series, this LG dryer is stackable with its 5 cubic feet compatible washer. With an annual energy consumption of around 266 kWh, it combines efficiency with a spacious 7.8-cubic-foot drum capacity, making it perfect for larger families or those handling multiple weekly loads of laundry.

• Average Price: $2,295 
• Combined Energy Factor: 9
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 266

8. LG - DLHC5502*

This LG smart ventless dryer presents a spacious 7.8-cubic-foot capacity alongside 23 programs and 11 options, allowing for optimal laundry customization. Equipped with dual inverter heat pump technology, LCD digital dial control, 6 Motion technology, and AI sensor dry, this dryer combines advanced features to enhance drying efficiency and convenience.

• Average Price: $1,295
• Combined Energy Factor: 9
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 266

9. Samsung - DV53BB89**H*

With an estimated annual energy consumption of 281 kWh, this energy-efficient Samsung dryer offers a spacious 7.8-cubic-foot capacity. As a ventless hybrid heat pump dryer featuring AI optimal dry, it ensures efficient and customized drying. Boasting 21 total drying cycles along with features like a sanitization cycle and 360 Air Flow, this dryer provides a lot of options for a top-notch laundry experience.

• Average Price: $1,977
• Combined Energy Factor: 8.5
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 281

10. LG - WKHC202H*A

LG makes its third appearance on our top 10 list with this dryer part of its 2022 WashTower series. This dryer is estimated to use 299 kWh of energy annually, with a test cycle time of approximately 72 minutes. The stackable design, featuring a 7.2-cubic-foot drum capacity for the dryer and 4.5 cubic feet for the washer, makes it a perfect fit for laundry closets and small rooms or tucked into corners of your home.

• Average Price: $1,999
• Combined Energy Factor: 8
• Estimated Annual Energy Use (kWh/yr): 299

How To Choose an Energy-Efficient Dryer  

So, which energy-efficient dryer is right for you? Check out the tips below to guide you in making the perfect choice.

Size and Capacity 

When choosing an energy-efficient dryer, it's important to consider your unique needs. For example, if your household handles multiple weekly laundry loads, it would be wise to choose a dryer with a drum that’s at least 7 cubic feet. While it may be a higher upfront cost, the increased capacity translates to fewer cycles, boosting efficiency and reducing long-term energy consumption.

Choosing a dryer that matches your laundry demands not only maximizes energy efficiency but also safeguards against avoidable wear and tear, ensuring optimal performance and a longer lifespan.

Configuration 

When it comes to functionality and space utilization, configuration plays an important role. For example, stackable dryers are ideal if you're working with a compact area, as they utilize vertical space. 

On the other hand, side-by-side dryers offer convenience in terms of accessibility and maintenance. Choose a configuration that aligns with your preferences and the layout of your laundry area.

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Combined Energy Factor (CEF) 

The CEF is an energy performance metric created by ENERGY STAR, showing how much power your dryer uses for a full cycle, including standby power. Simply put, the higher the CEF, the more energy efficient your dryer is. 

When evaluating dryers for their efficiency, look at CEF rating to ensure your choice aligns with your commitment to saving energy. For reference, all dryers that earned a spot on the 2024 ENERGY STAR Most Efficient list boast a rating over 5.

Heat Pump Dryer 

When it comes to clothes dryers, a heat pump dryer will typically be more energy efficient than a standard gas dryer. Here are a few things to consider if you’re looking at a heat pump model:

• Initial cost vs. ongoing savings: Heat pump dryers may have slightly higher upfront costs but offer long-term savings by reducing energy consumption over time.
• Venting: Heat pump dryers don’t require a vent, so they can fit just about anywhere in your home. 
• Water drainage: A heat pump dryer will use technology to evaporate moisture from clothes, so you won’t have to worry about draining water after each load. 
• Global Warming Potential (GWP) refrigerant: Heat pumps use a refrigerant to evaporate moisture while maintaining heat. Choose heat pump models with low-GWP refrigerants, like R290.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Still on the fence about whether an energy-efficient dryer is right for you? Here are some common questions and the answers to help.

What Type of Dryer Is Most Energy Efficient? 

The most energy-efficient type of dryer is a heat pump dryer, which can save up to 50% of energy compared to conventional dryers. Unlike traditional dryers that rely on electricity or gas for heating, heat pump dryers use advanced technology to recirculate and reuse hot air. This helps reduce energy consumption over time.

Is It Worth Buying an Energy-Efficient Dryer? 

Yes, investing in an energy-efficient dryer is often worth it. While they may have a higher upfront cost, the investment pays off through ongoing savings on your electricity bill, especially if you frequently use your dryer.

What Is the Cheapest Type of Dryer To Run? 

The cheapest type of dryer to run is a heat pump dryer. Again, although the upfront cost may be higher, its running costs are lower due to its ability to recirculate and reuse hot air, resulting in reduced energy consumption.

Is a Heat Pump Dryer Better Than a Condenser Dryer? 

When it comes to energy efficiency, a heat pump dryer is better than a condenser dryer. Opting for a heat pump is more energy efficient and cost effective, whereas a condenser dryer excels at quick drying due to its higher heat generation.

Save on Your Electricity Bill With Arbor 

Energy-efficient dryers are a great way to help you save money on your utility bills. To maximize your savings, Arbor can help you discover the most competitive electricity rates and provide insights into available rebates and tax credits in your area. Just enter your ZIP code and explore how you can start saving money today.

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