All other things equal, bigger dryers are faster..

[stricklybojack]

.
is my take away from experiences at the local laundromat with two otherwise identical Huebsch machines.Now you only get 4 minutes per quarter vs 5 minutes on the smaller version, but my last load of towels convinced me it's worth it.
I'm guessing the increased drum diameter allows for more falling/tumbling/dropping action especially for larger items.
can anyone verify this with the most current and relevant laundry science thermodynamics?

 

[Marky_Mark]

When you say they're otherwise identical, are you certain they are the same power?

 

Electric Euro dryers usually have a heater of around 2500 Watts and a British company (White Knight) makes Euro dryers with a gas burner of 3000 Watts.

 

American dryers (also sold in Europe) usually have elements of around 5500 Watts and the gas version can often be around 6500 Watts.  So obviously the larger American dryer will dry the same load faster than the smaller Euro dryer.  But not because of its size, but because the heater is twice as powerful.

 

[kb0nes]

Otherwise identical

Are you positive that the blower CFM and burner BTU input are the same?

There could of course be a speed advantage to a under filled drum which would be aided by a larger model.

 

[stricklybojack]

Hmm..

.
have to check on that. But more heat spread over a greater area and higher cfm through a larger space sorta equals things out maybe?[this post was last edited: 10/1/2015-18:39]

 

[launderess]

Laundromat Dryer Drum Volumes

Pretty much fall within standard ranges depending upon if they are single or double pocket and or rated load size. That is you are going to have double stacked dryers there is a limit to overall size because they have to fit within an existing space. More so because unless a new place is being built from scratch the units must fit where previous dryers were located.

Yes, heating power (most always gas or propane in the USA) does play a role in landromat dryers you also have internal thermostat settings. Many Laundromat owners have been either turning down/up their dryers and or adjusting pricing. This is in response to economic conditions but also one important fact; historically laundromats made their money on driers. However with the newer washing machines that offer better extraction drying times are shorter. This is great for customers but perhaps no so much for the owner.

The other thing is contrary to popular belief you cannot cram laundromat dryers full and expect proper results. Bed linens in particular need room to "float".