Heat pump tumble dryers

[Steve]

Our cheapy vented tumble dryer is on the blink (again) and I'm sick of fixing it plus it chews through energy at a rapid rate.

I've been looking at more energy efficient models, specifically the condenser with heat pump units. The choice seems to be between an AEG, a John Lewis model (which is based on the AEG model), a Bosch, a Siemens and a Miele.

Were the Miele not so expensive, I'd automatically go for that as I'm very impressed by the quality of the Miele washing machine we have. But the price difference is such that the other machines are around 40% cheaper.

What's people opinion of AEG and Bosch dryers? I'm somewhat put off AEG because they're part of the Zanussi/Dlectrolux group and my experience with their products in recents years hasn't been great. Similarily, the quality of Bosch kit doesn't seem to be as high as it used to be. Siemens I have no experience with.

Thanks,

Steve.

[Bob Minchin]

I have no experience with these types of driers but can contribute the fact that Siemens and Bosch machines are normally made in the same factory from similar/same components. The only differences being cosmetic trim and software fill to give different options. So whilst features and effectiveness may differ, the reliability is likely to be similar. I've had good service from a Siemens washing machine must be at least 10 years old, Our Bosch freezer and Siemens fridge/freezer are from a similar era and very reliable so no experience with the quality of newer Siemens/Bosch products. Bob

[Steve]

Hi Bob,

Thanks for the info. A bit more googling revealed the Siemens/Bosch link up, so I've learnt summat new today. I'd forgotten I'd also got a bosch fridge and freezer, both of which have been faultless for 10 or more years. So I can't knock the quality on that front.

I'm tending towards the Siemens unit. They have 100 pound trade in and a 5 year warranty deal at the moment. Still more than I'd hope to pay for a tumble dryer but it's got some good reviews, is the cheapest to run and it should speak the same language as the miele washing machine.

Steve.