Living in an apartment doesn't mean sacrificing the convenience of a clothes dryer. While space constraints and building regulations might rule out traditional vented dryers, modern ventless technology has opened up excellent options for apartment dwellers across Australia.
From compact condenser units perfect for tight laundry cupboards to clever stacking solutions that maximise vertical space, this guide covers everything you need to know about choosing and installing a dryer in your apartment.
Why Apartments Need Ventless Dryers
Traditional vented dryers expel hot, moist air through ducting to the outdoors. In apartments, this presents several challenges:
- No external access: Many apartment laundries are internal rooms without external walls
- Body corporate restrictions: Strata rules often prohibit modifications to external walls or facades
- Lease limitations: Renters typically can't install permanent ducting
- Fire regulations: High-rise buildings may have specific requirements about dryer venting
Ventless dryers - both condenser and heat pump types - solve these problems by handling moisture internally, requiring only a power outlet and occasional tank emptying or drain connection.
Condenser Dryers: The Practical Choice
Condenser dryers are the most popular choice for Australian apartments. They offer a good balance of affordability, compact sizing, and installation flexibility.
How They Work
Instead of venting moist air outside, condenser dryers cool the warm, moisture-laden air to condense water vapour into liquid. This water collects in a removable tank (typically 3-5 litres) that you empty after one or two cycles, or can be plumbed directly into a drain.
Advantages for Apartments
- Lower upfront cost: $600-1,500, compared to $1,500-3,000 for heat pump
- Faster cycles: 45-70 minutes versus 90-150 for heat pump
- Compact options: 4-6kg models designed specifically for small spaces
- No installation modifications: Just plug in and start using
Considerations
- Higher running costs than heat pump dryers
- Generates some ambient heat into the room
- Water tank needs regular emptying unless plumbed
Tip: Drain Connection
If your laundry has a floor drain or you can reach a sink drain, consider connecting your condenser dryer's drainage hose. This eliminates the need to empty the tank and prevents any risk of overflow if you forget.
Heat Pump Dryers: The Efficient Option
Heat pump dryers are increasingly popular in apartments, despite higher upfront costs, due to their exceptional energy efficiency.
Why Efficiency Matters in Apartments
Apartment dwellers often do frequent smaller loads rather than occasional large ones, meaning the dryer runs more often. Lower running costs per cycle add up significantly over time. A heat pump dryer using 50% less electricity can save $150-200 annually compared to a condenser model.
Additional Benefits
- Lower operating temperatures: Less heat released into your apartment, important in smaller spaces
- Quieter operation: Most run at 60-65dB versus 65-70dB for condensers
- Gentler on clothes: Lower heat reduces fabric wear and shrinkage
Considerations
- Higher purchase price ($1,200-3,000)
- Longer cycle times - plan accordingly
- Additional filter maintenance for the heat exchanger
Compact and Space-Saving Options
Compact Standalone Dryers
Several manufacturers offer dryers in the 4-6kg capacity range, specifically designed for small spaces. These typically measure around 600mm wide by 850mm high by 450mm deep - roughly 20% smaller than standard models.
Compact dryers are ideal for small laundry cupboards, under-bench installations, or dedicated laundry nooks. Their smaller capacity suits individuals and couples with moderate laundry needs.
Washer-Dryer Combinations
All-in-one washer-dryer combos are the ultimate space savers, fitting washing machine and dryer functionality into a single footprint. Modern combos use condenser or heat pump technology and don't require venting.
Advantages:
- Single appliance footprint
- Can automatically transition from wash to dry
- Often more affordable than separate machines
Disadvantages:
- Can only wash or dry at once, not both simultaneously
- Drying capacity typically less than washing capacity
- If one function fails, you lose both
- Longer total cycle times
Stacking Kits
If you have a top-loading washer or front-loader with space above, stacking a dryer on top maximises your floor area. Stacking kits secure the dryer safely and are available from most manufacturers.
Important considerations for stacking:
- Ensure both appliances are compatible with stacking (check manuals)
- Use the manufacturer's genuine stacking kit for safety
- Consider access for loading/unloading the top appliance
- Verify your floor can support the combined weight
Height Consideration
Stacked appliances typically reach 180-200cm total height. Make sure the stacked dryer will be accessible for loading, unloading, and lint filter cleaning without needing a step stool.
Installation in Apartments
Electrical Requirements
Most apartment dryers run on standard 10-amp outlets. However, older apartment buildings may have limited outlets in laundry areas. Verify you have a suitable outlet before purchasing, and never use extension cords or power boards with dryers.
Ventilation Considerations
While ventless dryers don't need ducting, they do release some heat and humidity into the room. Ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed laundry spaces - even a door that can be left ajar or a small exhaust fan helps.
In very small, poorly ventilated spaces, humidity buildup can occur over time, potentially causing mould issues. Running an exhaust fan during and after drying cycles helps manage this.
Noise and Neighbours
Sound travels easily in apartment buildings. Consider:
- Choosing quieter models (look for ratings under 65dB)
- Using anti-vibration pads under the dryer
- Avoiding running the dryer during quiet hours
- Locating the dryer away from shared walls where possible
Body Corporate and Rental Considerations
Strata Rules
Check your strata by-laws before purchasing. While ventless dryers typically don't require approval (no structural modifications), some buildings have rules about appliances, particularly regarding noise, water connections, or power draw.
Renter-Friendly Options
Renters should prioritise:
- Freestanding units that don't require permanent installation
- Tank-based water collection rather than plumbed drainage
- Portable or lightweight models if moving frequently
- Energy-efficient models to manage utility bills
Managing Humidity in Small Spaces
Even ventless dryers release some moisture into the surrounding air. In apartments, where spaces are smaller and airflow limited, managing this is important.
- Run exhaust fans: During and for 30 minutes after drying cycles
- Open windows: When weather permits, improve air circulation
- Empty water tanks promptly: Don't let water sit in the machine
- Consider a dehumidifier: For apartments with persistent humidity issues
- Check the condenser: A dirty condenser is less efficient at capturing moisture
Recommended Features for Apartment Dryers
When shopping for an apartment dryer, prioritise these features:
- Sensor drying: Prevents overdrying and saves energy
- Low noise operation: Look for ratings under 65dB
- Compact dimensions: Measure your space carefully first
- Drain connection option: For hands-free water disposal
- Delay start: Run during off-peak rates or convenient times
- High energy rating: Reduces running costs for frequent use
Ready to find the perfect dryer for your apartment? Use our comparison tool to filter by capacity and dryer type, or take our dryer finder quiz for personalised recommendations based on your living situation.