I need a new dryer! tell me which one to buy please..

[gearjammer]

Don't need much for features [I'm frugal/cheap]...

I like QUIET...as I run it mostly as I go to bed... I found the old bomb, when loaded to the max, often didn't dry stuff 100% in one cycle...didn't like that much.

I have a Sears nearby...suggestions? Thanks much.

 

[toggleswitch]

Why do i see fireworks forth-coming?

~when loaded to the max, often didn't dry stuff 100% in one cycle.

1- automatic (sensor) cycles sometimes do this with small loads [not the case here, apparenlty] and with heavy items.
2- auto-dry (mechanical) time-tmeperature cycles) will do this if with bulky thick items like coats, blankets and rugs
3- Is the dryer TOO full?
4- if this is a new occurence, is the vent hose clean and unobstructed? is the vent hood by the houe operable and opening fully?

Have you tried a timed cycle or more time?

Also if the dryer is in an unheated or cold location it may not dry sufficiently.

Just remember- ask 10 people you will get 12 opinions.
Good luck!

 

[andrewinorlando]

Steve is right on target there. I've got a Kenmore Elite gas dryer...it's fast, it's pretty quiet, and never leaves anything damp, even in the largest loads (as long as you set it right). Also handles a giant load easily, and has an ultra low temperature for those items that you don't want to shrink. Amazingly, it's one of the best dryers for turning out wrinkle free clothes. Not much wrinkles in this machine.

 

[maytagbear]

Also, PROPER VENTING

Is CRUCIAL.

White plastic venting should be, in my opinion OUTLAWED. It is a real potential fire hazard. Yes, it is easy to use. Easy as some of us here.

It can (and does) sag, reducing airflow, and increasing drying time, and drying costs. It can melt.

It can (and has!) caught fire. The next time you chat up a firefighter, ask him (or her).

I even think it voids warranties. (If it doesn't, it jolly well should.)

I don't have it in front of me right now, but I do know that the Installation directions for my Maytag LDG9806AAE had a big international circle NO for plastic venting.

There is a third way, and it is not the foil covered plastic vent, which is just as bad, though cute and shiny (like others here.)

The third way is semi-flexible metal. Much easier to use than sheet metal, but as safe as sheet metal. When my landlord put in my hookups, he used semi-flexible metal.

Say nasty things to me, write me evil emails, but I am sincere and serious about plastic vent hose being a Very Bad Idea. Even for an electric dryer.

Remember, lint is HIGHLY flammable.

The house, and LIFE you may save might be your own.

Lawrence/Maytagbear

 

[lightedcontrols]

....and now to answer your question...

See if you can find a Maytag Dependable care dryer. NOT the new Whirlpool, but the last of the Maytags. Go to a Maytag dealer. We still have a few left here in Roanoke, Va. Mark

 

[whirlcool]

I've always liked our Whirlpool dryer. Had it since 93' with not a problem or repair at all. It's the one with the large lint filter in the top. It runs quietly and really dries the clothing nicely without overdrying it.

 

[bajaespuma]

GE dryers are still made by GE using a 55+ year old design. For the price, they're solid, fast and dependable. If it were me, I'd buy a gas version with Electronic control (yes, they work and very well I might add) and the "Anti-Bacterial" option. Just because gas is faster and cheaper.

I would also follow ALL venting advice given above. If you don't care about burning your house down, you may care about CO poisoning (from gas dryers) and the extra fuel you'll burn while you do it.

 

[gearjammer]

Mine is a 8 year old whirlpool...whatever the drum rides on has a flat spot...th thump..th thump.. and when you load it you can here an eletrical feedback humm every few seconds...like they are throwing the switch on the local eletric chair...I'm guessing it's a heating element coming on/off??

I've checked the venting [both on top and in back] and I keep both clean] The timed dry scale is set at max wchich is '70' I've never checked But I imagine that is 70 Min....

I don't want gas...I had a may tag vintage 1988 and had problems...

 

[MikeS]

I Second Maytagbear's Emotion

I didn't realize the problem of plastic vent ducts until I covered a house fire in the early 1990's. The fire department captain told me the blaze was caused by lint caught in the plastic, blocking the vent and causing a fire. Fortunately, no one was hurt. But that fire encouraged me to check the dryer I had at the time. Sure enough, it was plastic. Out it went; it was replaced with metal. When I bought my condo in 1999, the appliance dealer that sold me my Roper washer and dryer (wonderful firm; no longer in business) would only use flexible or rigid metal for installation. I make sure the duct is clean as possible. No problems--with the vent or my Ropers. A tribute to both. Thanks, Maytagbear.
BTW, I'm partial to Whirlpool-made dryers. Fast, efficient and dependable. If you can find a Roper and can live without the frills, it will save you money and serve you well.

 

[toggleswitch]

GE dryers have a safelty switch that will shut off the motor and the heater should tbe belt pop. I am unaware of other brands having this feature.

of course, all machines shut off the heat when the mnotor is not turning.

 

[MrX]

Vents

We even opted for metal ducting for a european 230V electric miele dryer. Much prefer the idea and it's not even that expensive compared to plastic ducting.

 

[hydralique]

Two years ago our old dryer died in a major way when the drum fractured. Since it was so obviously beyond repair, we got one of the Home Depot Admiral dryers to replace it. It was cheaper than Sears since Sears wouldn't deliver anything free with a price of under $400, while Home Depot threw in delivery on the $330 Admiral.

So far we have absolutely no complaints. It dries pretty quickly and the moisture sensing cycle works well too, plus it has a good drum light. I know there have been lots of complaints about the matching washer family (the dreaded Amanatag), but I'd buy the dryer again in an instant.