So What Is a Heat Pump Dryer and Why Should You Use One?

If you’re looking for an energy-efficient clothes dryer, a heat pump dryer is one of the smartest choices on the market. Unlike traditional vented dryers that blast hot air and push it outside (wasting energy in the process), heat pump dryers recycle this hot air to dry clothes, making them significantly more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Best of all though is the way heat pump dryers care for your clothes, offering tailored cycles that are optimised for different types of fabrics, like delicates, sports gear and even wool. And because they use the heat more efficiently and run at lower temperatures, heat pump dryers save you money when compared to using other types of clothes dryers.

How Does a Heat Pump Dryer Work?

• Draws in air and heats it using a heat pump (instead of traditional elements).

• Warm air is circulated through your clothes to remove moisture.

• This moisture is condensed into water, which is either collected in a tank or drained.

• The warm air is reused again and again, reducing energy waste and running costs.

This closed-loop system uses far less electricity and because it runs at lower temperatures than conventional dryers, is also gentler on clothes - helping prevent shrinkage or fading over time. Another big plus is that because this type of dryer doesn’t need external venting, it can be placed almost anywhere in the home.

How does this technology help care for your clothes?

Your wardrobe or clothing is worthy of care. You’ve probably got items that you’ve spent a lot of money on and need to look after, or have some favourites that you wear often and want to maintain in tip-top condition. That’s where Fisher & Paykel’s range of Heat Pump Dryers can help, offering expert fabric care with the following innovations:

• Tailored cycles for different fabric types

• Science-based precision care for delicate items

• Specialised steam cycles that refresh and remove wrinkles

What is a best-in-class example of a Heat Pump Dryer?

There are a number of excellent models available, but when you are making the decision to purchase, make sure the Fisher & Paykel 9kg Series 9 Heat Pump Dryer (DH9060FS1) is on your hit list. Part of Fisher & Paykel’s advanced Steam Care appliance collection this model features:

• 10-star energy rating – this makes it one of the most efficient dryers on the market.

• Steam Care cycles – gently removes wrinkles and odours without detergent, ideal for a quick refresh, especially if it’s a garment don’t want to put through the washing machine. Think cocktail frock, silk blouse, jacket.

• TangleProtect – minimises tangling for even drying. – perfect for sheets.

• 25 specialised drying cycles – from Activewear to Wool and Hygiene cycles, these intuitive cycles cater will look after everything in your wardrobe.

• Speed, Quiet & Eco modes – optimised drying options for modern lifestyles. If you need something quickly or the appliance is in an open-plan environment, so you need quiet, or you are looking to maximise energy efficiency even further.

• Woolmark certification — it’s safe for delicate woollens which is a huge win in winter.

• Custom drying rack for shoes and for flat-drying delicates.

What are other considerations when choosing a Heat Pump Dryer?

You will need to consider which type will fit in with your needs:

• Water Tank vs. Plumbed Drainage

  The benefit of heat pump dryers is that they don’t need to be plumbed in which means you can locate them anywhere. The condensed water is collected in a tank or reservoir which generally needs to be emptied after each wash. For this reason some people may find it easier if the water tank is located near the top of the dryer as opposed to the bottom – so check this out before you buy.

  All Fisher & Paykel heat pump dryers come equipped with a drainage hose, so these models can be set-up to drain automatically. But this does mean you’ll need to connect it to a suitable drainage point, similar to a washing machine. If you’re very busy and likely to forget to empty the water tank, this may be a good option, however many dryers have smart technology that will send alerts when the tank is full.

• Dryer Capacity

  To determine the right capacity for your heat pump dryer, think about the size of your household, how often you wash and what sort of clothes you typically dry. As a rule of thumb, 7-8kg are suitable for individuals, couples or small families and 9-10kg+ are great for families or larger households ( particularly if you need to dry larger items like bedding).

  It's also recommended when choosing a clothes dryer that you match or slightly exceed the capacity of your washing machine so you can dry a full laundry load in one cycle. This is where pairing your washing machine and your heat pump dryer can offer real benefits.

• Smart Features

  Look for features like Wi-Fi connectivity, auto-sensing technology, or specialty cycles for delicates, sportswear, or towels. This will help you get the most flexibility out of your heat pump dryer – ensuring that your clothes don’t get over-dried and get the best possible care.

What are the benefits of buying laundry appliances from the same brand?

There are a number of leading brands that offer paired laundry solutions and Fisher & Paykel are a prime example of this. They have developed a seamless laundry system, with all appliances designed to work together. When a the Series 9 Heat pump Dryer is paired with a Steam Care Front Load Washing Machine and Fabric Care Cabinet, each appliance creates the perfect balance of fabric care through:

• Complementary cycles for optimal care across fibre types

• Seamless design aesthetic for your dream laundry

• Matched capacities for efficient load transfer

• Intuitive controls

• Smart Appliance with Wi-Fi-enabled connectivity

(Product Widget to show examples of paired products)

Why Choose a Heat Pump Dryer?

Whether you're looking to extend the life of your wardrobe, reduce energy bills, or streamline your laundry routine, this is the upgrade your home deserves.

Heat pump dryers are a smart investment – while they generally cost more upfront, they offer some unique benefits such as:

• Energy savings without compromise – superior energy efficiency lowers power bills while gentle and effective cycles provide optimal results.

• Perfect for premium wardrobes – low temperatures and precise care for high-end garments.

• Ideal for busy households – custom cycles and modes make laundry easier, quieter, and faster.

So if you need help choosing the right model, visit your local 100% Home appliance store and speak to our friendly team – they know and trust the Fisher & Paykel brand and will match you with the perfect heat pump dryer for your lifestyle.