What is a super-capacity dryer?- Super capacity dryers are also popularly regarded as large capacity dryers. Hence, those terms are often used interchangeably. Large capacity dryers are a perfect fit for your family’s extra large laundry loads- they save a lot of time while helping you cut down on trips to the laundromat.  Because large capacity dryers are huge, with extra large capacity, they offer more room on the inside for convenient tumble drying. Also, they can conveniently take care of your bulky items. An attempt to define a large or super capacity dryer may fail because there is nothing to perfectly describe them other than Gas and Electric dryer models generally range from around 5.0 cubic feet to around 7.0 cubic feet. Hence anything larger than these measurements can be regarded as having a large capacity. To put this into perspective, a 7.0 cu. Ft. dryer can usually fit about 9-15 full-sized bath towels per load. However, exact capacity varies by model, so check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Therefore, due to the size capacity variations of these super capacity dryers, it is essential to diligently scrutinize the specifications of certain dryers in relation to your needs. In simpler words, if you are shopping for large capacity dryers to handle your biggest loads, check for the capacity listed for each dryer to ascertain the capacity that is just suitable for your needs. Note also that the size of your super capacity dryer is not just a consideration for the loads you intend to use it for but also the space where it will fit in your laundry room; hence make sure you ascertain the overall dimension of your dryer.

 How to Buy a Dryer

It is paramount to make sure that the dryer you buy is fit for your purpose, which is why it is important to take cognizance of some factors before you visit the store for a new dryer. You may want to look for some specific must-have features of a dryer and other things like the convenience options, use cases, and the capacity that your dryer must possess, to serve you perfectly. Therefore, make sure you are very well prepared, before you venture into the task of replacing your dryer- this will save you some time and stress.

Before replacing your Dryer

Regardless of their capacity and model, dryers can last as long as 10 to 14 years; however, they must have been used fairly. If dryers can last this long, it is necessary to make sure that it is necessary to get a replacement before you actually do- they can be quite expensive. Making necessary checks before buying a top rated appliance package is therefore a necessity, not for a dryer but also for other appliances too.

As your dryer ages, you may have to get a repair more often that the time when you first bought the machine or just replacing it. If your dryer is not very old (under four to five years), and needs to be fixed, then depending on the cost to repair it, it might be more cost-effective to have it repaired. But if it is older, you might consider replacing it with a newer model, which will use less energy, saving you money in the long run.

Apart from some necessary replacements that you need to make, as a result of your aging dryer, you may also need a replacement because you just want an upgrade to your current dryer features. Technology has come to stay, and it will continually advance. An easier way to get things done may be discovered tomorrow after you purchase a gadget. You may also need a larger capacity dryer because the family is growing. This section deals extensively with the special considerations that should be made before venturing into another dryer purchase.

Gas or Electric

You want to decide whether to go for a gas or an electric dryer. A crucial factor in facilitating the use of a gas dryer is the gas installation in your house. Gas dryers may be significantly energy efficient; they may be the best for you if your goal is to cut down on your utility budget, but remember that it may also cost you some money to get the necessary installation in place. If gas is available for a dryer, the outlay for a gas dryer model may be a good option if your dryer usage is high. On the other hand, an electric dryer requires you to pay higher utility bills, especially if you use your dryer a lot. Similarly, for an electric dryer, you will have also to put some installation in place. Both types of dryers require proper venting to the outside. Always follow the dryer manufacturer’s installation recommendations.

Installation

Electric dryers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit, which almost every laundry room will have. Gas dryers, on the other hand, require a separate gas hookup, which is less common in American households. If you buy a gas dryer, you may need to factor in the cost of having a gas line professionally installed. Be aware that this can cost upward of several hundred dollars — in many cases, this can outweigh the long-term energy bill savings or at least render them negligible. And even if you already have a gas line ready to go, you still might be wise to have your new gas dryer installed by a trusted professional. The consequences of a faulty installation can include fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, or even an explosion.

Know Your Capacity Needs

Standard full-size dryers typically range from 7.3 cu. Ft. to 8.3 cu. Ft. Regardless, there are compact dryers that range from 3.4 cu. Ft. to 4.3 cu. Ft. and there are large capacity dryers with a 9.2 cu. Ft. measurement. Large capacity dryers are usually found in Kenmore, Maytag, and Whirlpool brands- these brands are also few of the best kitchen appliance brands.

To discover the dryer size that fits your purpose, it is necessary first to understand your needs; For one to two people only washing light garments and no heavy bedding, a compact unit is probably sufficient. On the other hand, some people would prefer a full-size dryer, capable of drying heavier and larger loads. As a matter of fact, hardly will one get a dryer, just for light beddings and other light materials. To know what capacity is best for you, the rule that states that the size of a dryer must be twice that of a washer may be helpful. If your washer has a 3.5 cu. Ft. capacity, for instance, then look for a dryer with 7.0 cu. ft. This 1:2 ratio is the sweet spot, giving a full load of wet laundry enough room to dry efficiently without wasting energy.

It is very crucial to avert your mind to the fact that things are not always the way they seem, especially when it comes to dryer manufacturer’s descriptions of their dryers. They will use terminologies like; king-size, ultra-capacity, and extra-large, to describe the size of a dryer but these representations are not always factual or accurate. Hence, it is important to adhere strictly to numbers and measurements.

Be Proactive

The need to plan cannot be emphasised- when buying your dryer, do not just plan with regards to the size of  your current washer, but also, endeavour to picture the washer you may use in the future and try to get a dryer, larger in size. Also, while contemplating the future in your plans, you need to ask yourself, are you planning on starting a family anytime soon? If so, you’d be wise to plan on a bigger laundry load, too.

Types of dryers on the market ?

1. Gas Dryers

All dryers use heated air and a tumbling motion in order to get your clothes dry. The difference comes with how the air within the drum is ultimately heated. Gas dryers rely on natural gas or propane to heat up the air to dry your clothes, and a regular house outlet to power the unit. These types of dryers tend to cost more upfront, but since they don’t require as much electricity, their running costs tend to be cheaper over time.

Note that you’ll need a gas hookup in order to install a gas dryer in your home, as well as a vent that can circulate the air to the outside, so they’re not ideal if you lack space, don’t have a gas hookup or a venting system.

2. Electric Dryers

Electric dryers heat your clothes up, using electricity. It is considered to be cost effective because it is cheaper than it counterpart- gas dryer but this opinion is not completely true, considering that electricity cost is also another thing to contend with- most electric dryers are not so, energy-efficient, especially when you use them pretty often or when your dry bulky and tough loads in the dryer. However, a good side to electric dryers is that they are quite easy to install, though you will need a four-pronged, 240-volt electrical outlet and you may need venting as well, in your appliance repair kit.

3. Top-Load Dryers

Quite frankly, most dryers tend to load from the front but there are also some top loaders out there. There are aesthetically match top-loading dryers, to provide a more cohsive look in your kitchen. These types of dryers have their control panel toward the back of the machine like a top-loading washer would, and are usually placed side-by-side. Budget-friendly models can usually be found in this style.

4. Front-Load  Dryers

If you have a front-load washer, it is possible that you buy a front-load dryer to match up. Typically, front-load dryers are stackable, and most times, they a window on the door to match the corresponding front-load washer. Their control panel is also situated on the front, not far from the window. They come with high-settings and finishes. Hence, they are more expensive than most models.

5. Ventless Dryers

If your space is confined and tight, a ventless dryer might just be the right choice for you. A ventless dryer is also an option, when you do not really have a problem with a small-sized or a vented dryer. As the name of this dryer suggests, it does not require venting to the outside of the dryer.

FAQs

What types of Large Capacity are Available?

Super capacity dryers come in variants, including gas and electric heat sources. Hence, it is important for you to evaluate the features of these dryer types, in order to make an informed decision on your choice of dryer. If you need a dryer that offers fast, versatile installation, consider a large capacity electric dryer. If your home is equipped with gas dryer hookups and you’re looking to save on electricity costs, a large capacity gas dryer may be the right choice for you. Learn more about gas vs electric dryers to help you choose. You can also find both gas and electric Energy Star certified dryers in larger capacities to help save on energy costs in addition to the time you may save by washing more items at once in a large-capacity dryer.

What are some features of a large capacity dryer?

Your drying performance when dealing with heavy and tough loads can be significantly influenced by the pre-programmed cycles, settings and features of your dryer. It is advised that you look for dryers with a moisture sensing feature. The moisture sensing system will constantly monitor the moisture and air temperature inside your dryer. When the air temperature in a dryer is regulated, this can help evenly and completely dry large and bulky loads. Many dryer models feature 1, 2, or 3 moisture sensors but a few on the market today feature a fourth sensor to ensure accurate drying on tough loads.

What is the most reliable brand of dryer?

It is difficult to say for sure that a particular dryer brand is the best because the choice of a brand is majorly a factor of individual preferences; dryer brands have several varying features and sometimes similar ones. Hence a prospective buyer should look at several options, to be sure of the particular brand that suits their purpose. Regardless, brands like Maytag, Whirpool, LG and Samsung are very good dryer brands available on the market.