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Tumble Dryer vs. Heated Airer: Which Is Cheaper to Run?
Drying laundry is a necessity, but the method you choose can have a significant impact on your energy bills. In the UK, where damp and cold weather often makes outdoor drying impractical, many households rely on tumble dryers or heated airers. But which option is cheaper to run?
This guide takes an in-depth look at the costs, efficiency, pros, and cons of tumble dryers and heated airers, helping you decide the most economical choice for your home.
Understanding the Running Costs
When comparing tumble dryers and heated airers, the main factor is energy consumption.
1. Tumble Dryer Running Costs
Tumble dryers are one of the most energy-hungry appliances in the home. The cost of running one depends on:
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Dryer type (vented, condenser, or heat pump)
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Energy rating (A+++ being the most efficient)
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Load size
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Cycle duration
Average Running Costs of a Tumble Dryer:
| Tumble Dryer Type | Energy Usage per Cycle | Cost per Cycle (based on 30p/kWh) | Estimated Cost per Year (3 uses per week) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vented Dryer | 4.5 kWh | £1.35 | £210.60 |
| Condenser Dryer | 3.5 kWh | £1.05 | £163.80 |
| Heat Pump Dryer | 1.5 kWh | £0.45 | £70.20 |
💡 Heat pump dryers are the most economical tumble dryer option, using about 66% less energy than standard vented models.
2. Heated Airer Running Costs
A heated airer is essentially an electric drying rack with low-power heating elements. Unlike tumble dryers, it doesn’t tumble or agitate clothes, making it much gentler on fabrics.
Average Running Costs of a Heated Airer:
| Heated Airer Type | Energy Usage per Hour | Cost per Hour (based on 30p/kWh) | Total Cost (8-hour drying time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Heated Airer | 250W (0.25 kWh) | £0.075 | £0.60 |
| Heated Airer with Cover | 300W (0.3 kWh) | £0.09 | £0.72 |
💡 Even if used for 8 hours straight, a heated airer still costs less per load than a tumble dryer.
Which Is More Cost-Effective?
Direct Cost Comparison
| Drying Method | Average Cost per Use | Annual Cost (3 uses per week) |
|---|---|---|
| Vented Tumble Dryer | £1.35 | £210.60 |
| Condenser Tumble Dryer | £1.05 | £163.80 |
| Heat Pump Tumble Dryer | £0.45 | £70.20 |
| Standard Heated Airer (8-hour use) | £0.60 | £93.60 |
| Heated Airer with Cover (8-hour use) | £0.72 | £112.32 |
👉 Heated airers are generally cheaper than tumble dryers, especially when compared to vented or condenser models. However, if you have a heat pump tumble dryer, the difference is less significant.
Other Key Factors to Consider
Cost isn’t the only consideration. Drying speed, convenience, and impact on your home environment also matter.
1. Drying Time: Tumble Dryer Wins
Tumble dryers are much faster, drying clothes in 45–90 minutes. In contrast, a heated airer can take 6–12 hours.
2. Clothes Care: Heated Airer Wins
Tumble dryers can cause shrinkage, fading, and fabric wear, while heated airers are gentler.
3. Convenience: Tumble Dryer Wins
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Tumble dryers require less effort—just load, press start, and remove dry clothes.
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Heated airers require more space and might need repositioning for better airflow.
4. Risk of Damp and Condensation: Tumble Dryer Wins (if vented properly)
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Heated airers release moisture into the room, potentially leading to damp and mould.
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Tumble dryers extract moisture, but condenser dryers can still cause humidity build-up.
💡 Tip: Using a dehumidifier alongside a heated airer can help remove excess moisture.
Making the Best Choice for Your Home
Choose a Heated Airer If:
✅ You want to minimise energy costs.
✅ You have the time to let clothes dry gradually.
✅ You need a gentler drying method for delicate fabrics.
✅ You have a well-ventilated space to prevent condensation.
Choose a Tumble Dryer If:
✅ You need clothes dried quickly.
✅ You have a large household with lots of laundry.
✅ You have a heat pump tumble dryer, making it almost as economical as a heated airer.
✅ You don’t want to deal with indoor moisture issues.
Tips for Maximising Efficiency
If You Use a Heated Airer:
✔ Use a drying cover – Traps heat, reducing drying time by up to 30%.
✔ Position near a radiator (but not touching it) – Speeds up drying in winter.
✔ Improve air circulation – Open windows or use a dehumidifier to avoid damp issues.
✔ Rotate and space clothes evenly – Ensures quicker, more even drying.
If You Use a Tumble Dryer:
✔ Choose a heat pump model – Uses up to 66% less energy than vented dryers.
✔ Use dryer balls – Reduces drying time by up to 25%.
✔ Spin clothes well before drying – A washing machine spin cycle of 1,200+ RPM removes excess water.
✔ Clean the lint filter – Improves airflow and efficiency.
Final Verdict: Which Is Cheaper to Run?
💰 Heated airers are the cheapest option overall, costing around £0.60 per use, compared to a standard tumble dryer’s £1.05–£1.35 per use.
However, if you have a heat pump tumble dryer, the running costs (around £0.45 per use) are comparable to a heated airer—with the added benefit of faster drying and no risk of indoor damp.
👉 Best for low-cost drying? A heated airer (especially with a cover).
👉 Best for fast, efficient drying? A heat pump tumble dryer.
💡 Want the best of both worlds? Combine a heated airer and dehumidifier to reduce drying time while keeping costs low.
Conclusion
If you’re on a tight budget, a heated airer is your best bet. But if you value speed and convenience, investing in a heat pump tumble dryer could be worth it in the long run.