Ventless dryers, also known as condenser dryers, are a great option for households that want the convenience of an in-home clothes dryer but don’t have the ability to vent the dryer outside. Ventless dryers work by condensing the moisture from the wet clothes into a removable reservoir rather than venting the hot, moist air outside like traditional vented dryers. This makes them ideal for apartments, condos, RVs, and other living spaces where venting isn’t possible.
Page Contents
How do ventless dryers work?
Ventless dryers work through a condensation process. Hot air is circulated through the wet clothes, helping to evaporate the moisture. This moisture-filled air then passes through a condenser, which cools the air rapidly and causes the water vapor to condense, leaving the air dry again. The condensed water is collected in a reservoir tank that must be manually emptied after each drying cycle. Because the moist air is condensed and reused rather than being vented outside, ventless dryers don’t require any type of outdoor venting.
Are there stackable ventless dryers?
Yes, there are stackable ventless dryer models available from several manufacturers. Stackable dryers allow you to have both a washer and dryer in a compact vertical configuration, saving floor space. Here are some examples of stackable ventless dryer options:
LG Stackable Ventless Dryer
LG makes a ventless condensing dryer designed to stack on top of a compatible LG washer. The dryer has a drying capacity of 7.4 cu ft and features LG’s Sensor Dry technology to optimize drying times. The dryer can be gas or electric powered. The condensed water collects in an easy to empty pull-out reservoir. This unit stacks securely on top of LG washers thanks to integrated stacking hardware.
Miele Stackable Ventless Tumble Dryer
Miele offers a stackable ventless condenser dryer with a Honeycomb drum designed for gentle fabric care. It has a 7.5 cu ft capacity and features Moisture Control technology to efficiently dry loads. This model can be stacked with a Miele washer of the same width and depth using a stacking kit. The condenser and water container are conveniently accessible from the front of the dryer.
Splendide Stackable Ventless Dryer
Splendide is a popular brand for stackable combination washer/dryer units that include a ventless condenser dryer on top. The Splendide models feature a 7.0 cu ft capacity dryer and use a humidity sensor for optimal drying. The dryer drum is made of stainless steel for durability. The washer and dryer stack securely and the controls are conveniently located on the front of the unit.
Benefits of a Stackable Ventless Dryer
Here are some of the benefits that a stackable ventless dryer can provide:
- More compact footprint – By stacking the dryer on top of the washer, you save a considerable amount of floor space.
- Better ergonomics – The controls are at a more convenient height when stacked compared to a standalone unit.
- Easier to load and unload – You don’t have to bend down as far to load or unload the washer and dryer.
- Secure stacking – Stackable units are designed to lock together securely.
- Venting not required – Stackable ventless dryers avoid the need for any type of venting kit or ductwork.
- Condensation drying – Ventless operation means no outdoor venting needed.
- Portability – Stackable units can be easily moved and installed in different locations.
Considerations for a Stackable Ventless Dryer
Here are a few things to keep in mind when considering a stackable ventless dryer:
Slower drying times
Because ventless dryers recirculate the same hot air rather than venting moist air out, drying times are typically longer compared to vented dryers. Expect drying cycles to take about twice as long.
Need to empty water reservoir
The water condensed out of the air must be collected in a reservoir or drain container that must be emptied after each use. This is an added step compared to vented models.
Risk of moisture issues
Releasing large amounts of moisture into the indoor air can potentially lead to mold, mildew, or moisture damage if the space is not properly ventilated. Running a dehumidifier helps mitigate this risk.
Reduced drying performance
Ventless dryers tend to be less efficient at drying very large or very wet loads. Performance can degrade over time as condenser coils accumulate lint buildup.
More expensive to operate
Ventless dryers typically cost more per cycle to run compared to vented models since they use more energy recirculating air continuously.
Requires more maintenance
You’ll need to periodically clean lint and debris from the condenser coils for optimal performance and drying ability.
Conclusion
Stackable ventless dryers provide a versatile drying solution for apartments, condos, and other spots where venting a dryer outside is not possible. Models from reputable brands like LG, Miele, and Splendide allow secure stacking on top of a washer for a compact footprint. While performance is not as strong as vented dryers, stackable ventless dryers eliminate the need for venting kits and ductwork. Just be prepared for longer dry times, occasionally emptying the water reservoir, and keeping up with condenser maintenance. With the right expectations, a stackable ventless dryer can be an excellent alternative for space-constrained and hard-to-vent laundry rooms.