Hi Ron,
Thats it in a nutshell. When the ambient humidity is 80%+ and the temp is 30-40degC it just becomes a very expensive door stop with the condensor in. It takes the three hours even when the load is spun at 1800rpm.
With the condensor out and a 30 minute cool down, its usually done in about 1:45 on low heat.
We've got the T4888C which matches our W2888, luckily we didnt pay full price, or we'd be really peeved. We got a letter from Miele when they were running out the 5.5kg series advising that their records showed we had a W2888 and did we want to buy the matching dryer for $1499. I wanted an F&P topload and Michael wanted them to match, at that price for the match, he won.
The other reason I leave the condensor out is I'm not fond of the smell of condensor dried clothes. I find even on low heat, elastics wrinkle and it just doesnt smell fresh, or at least like normal mechanically dried clothes.
The New Miele heat pump drier in theory solves all those problems, because it operates at a lower temp, and has the built in ability to not only heat, but to cool the condensing air as well, but for nearly $4K I think the technology is a bit new to be taking ones chances.
I should note that when the Condensor is in, the temp is below 30, with low humidity, the Miele works perfectly with no moisture being released into the room.