Your Cart
£0.00
How to Install a Tumble Dryer
Have you just bought a new freestanding tumble dryer or thinking about buying one? There are several things to consider.
Firstly you’re going to have to decide where you want to position it. Once you have the dryer you’ll need to get it into your home and into place. You’ll then need to install it.
Thankfully, installing a new tumble dryer doesn’t have to be as daunting as it first sounds. Here we’ll walk you through how to install a condenser tumble dryer, and then how to install a vented tumble dryer.
Please note tumble dryers are heavy products and difficult to manoeuvre. We recommend getting some help with the installation.
How to Install a Condenser Dryer
A great benefit of condenser dryers is that you can install them almost anywhere. This is because, unlike vented dryers, they don’t need a hose attachment to vent moisture outside. This means that all you need to do is fit the tumble dryer close enough to a power supply for you to plug the dryer in.
- You’ll also need to make sure that the space is big enough for the dryer and leaves a small gap around the edge for ventilation.
- Once the tumble dryer is in place and plugged it, switch it on to make sure everything is working as it should. If the machine isn’t working correctly, check the plug to make sure it’s inserted properly.
- If the dryer isn’t working properly, or switching on at all, contact your manufacturer or retailer for assistance.
- If you’re placing a tumble dryer next to other appliances, be mindful that condenser dryers use warm air. If you’re placing a condenser tumble dryer next to a fridge or freezer it will cause them to work harder.
How to Install a Vented Tumble Dryer
Replacing an existing tumble dryer? This should be much more straightforward than if you’re installing one for the first time. If your home has an existing ventilation hole or your tumble dryer is located next to, or underneath a window, this should be a simple procedure. Simply attach the hose and place the tumble dryer in position.
Installing a vented tumble dryer for the first time is far trickier. We recommend consulting a professional and skilled tradesman before drilling any holes into the wall. Not confident in installing the vent hole yourself? Book a professional. Their services will give you peace of mind that the job will be done correctly.
If you want to go ahead and install a vented tumble dryer yourself, you can find the instructions and what equipment you’ll need below.
What you’ll need:
As mentioned previously, we do recommend hiring a professional if you aren’t 100% sure of what to do.
How to do it:
- Hold the end of the vent against the wall (where it will vent) and draw around it.
- Drill several one inch wide holes around the outside of the circle line, using the masonry drill bit.
- Connect the holes with a drill.
- Place the vent grille onto the wall and trace around the holes.
- Drill some mounting holes into the wall.
- Fill the holes using the silicone caulk and put wall anchors inside before it sets.
- Push the flexible vent tube through the hole and screw the plate to the wall.
- Make sure everything is tightened and then connect the other end of the hose to the dryer.
- Put the dryer into place, plug it in, and test to see if it’s working. Make sure the drum is free of dust and debris before doing this.
How to Replace a Tumble Dryer Hose
Replacing the hose of a vented tumble dryer sounds like an easy task, but did you know they come in different sizes?
There are three common sizes: 3”, 4” and 5”. To find out what size hose you need simply measure the diameter of the end of the hose. Once you’ve got your new hose, fix it into place and make sure the other end of the hose is correctly fitted into the vent hole, or can reach a window without an obstacle.
Our Installation Services
If you’re buying a new tumble dryer, take a look at our installation services. We can provide installation services on both freestanding and integrated tumble dryers. Depending which option you need, our team, or our trusted installation partners will fit your new appliance upon delivery. For more information, take a look at our Installation page or call our sales team on 0115 965 1937.
Tumble Dryer Installation FAQ’s
Can I install a dryer myself?
This depends on which type of tumble dryer you’re installing and how confident you are with DIY. If you are replacing a like for like condenser dryer, the answer is probably yes. This type of dryer does not need to vent outside so you’ll simply need to connect to your power supply and potentially a drain hose. Vented tumble dryers are more complex to install and we would recommend hiring the help of a professional for this task.
Does a condenser dryer need plumbing in?
No, condenser tumble dryers do not need plumbing in. Condenser dryers collect condensation in a water tank which you can empty manually. However some models have the option to drain directly instead. These models can be connected to your drain pipe if you prefer.
Can you install a tumble dryer anywhere in your house?
Again, this depends on the type of dryer you choose. A vented tumble dryer needs to be fitted next to an external wall so you can vent the air outside via a hose. You can install a condenser dryer almost anywhere within your home however you’ll need a power supply and adequate ventilation around a condenser dryer. Tumble dryers are heavy appliances so you’ll need to make sure the flooring is strong and level. You should never install a tumble dryer on carpeted floors as this can be a fire hazard.
Can you install a tumble dryer in your garage?
Like many other appliances, tumble dryers perform best at room temperature, or above 5°C at minimum. Garages can become much colder in the winter months, which is typically when you’re going to use your tumble dryer the most. Most manufacturers wouldn’t advise using a tumble dryer in your garage, especially a heat pump dryer.
