How to Buy the Best Clothes Dryer

A clothes dryer is one of those things that most people can't live without. Even if you like to line dry things, sometimes the climate requires that you dry your clothing indoors. Because dryers use to much power, it's important to buy the best clothes dryer that you can - one that will dry your clothes quickly while not using too much electricity. Because it's a large investment, you also want to purchase a quality machine that is going to last for a long time. Read on to learn how to buy the best clothes dryer.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer
• Internet

1. 
    
   Check Your Space

   ~ Check How Much Space You Have ~
   
   The first thing that you should do is check to see how much space that you have. Clothes dryers come in different sizes, so you'll want to make sure that you choose one that will fit in the space that you have available.

2. Decide on Gas or Electric ~
   
   You may have to buy one or the other depending on what type of hook-up is available in your home. However, some homes have both types of hook-ups. In that case, the choice is completely up to you, but should be made early in the buying process.

3. 
    
   Use the Internet to Research

   ~ Do some Preliminary Research ~
   
   The internet is a great place to do some initial research. You'll be able to read reviews as well as look at different styles and features that are available. This will also give you an idea of the different price points that are available.

4. 
    
   Set a Budget

   ~ Set a Budget ~
   
   As with an major purchase, you should know what you are willing to spend. Since you've already done some initial research, you know what the best clothes dryers cost so you should have a pretty good idea of what you'll have to spend.

5. ~ Consider Size ~
   
   As you look, you'll want to carefully consider the size, or capacity, that you'll need. If you live alone or have a very small family, you may only need a small machine. However, if you have a large family and you do a lot of laundry, you'll want to get the largest dryer that you can.

6. ~ Decide What Features Are Important ~
   
   Clothes dryers come with a lot of features these days. You can even get a dryer that will steam dry your clothing. However, if you don't dress up often, you don't really need all of those added features. Decide what things are most important to you.

7. ~ Pay Close Attention to the Energy Star Rating ~
   
   Because dryers use a lot of energy, you want to find one that has a good energy star rating. The higher the rating, the less electricity or gas the unit will use. A slightly higher price tag is well worth it for a machine that doesn't use much energy.

8. ~ Compare Prices & Look for a Sale ~
   
   To buy the best clothes dryer, you want to get a good price. Check different locations to find the best possible deal. Many stores frequently have sales on appliances - try to wait for one if at all possible.

Tips & Warnings

• Read reviews and check Consumer Reports before you make a final decision.

[writer7]

on 3/31/2009 These are all excellent tips on buying a clothes dryer! 5*