The once energy-hungry clothes dryer, that often needed replacing after just a few years, has been reinvented as a clean green machine using half the energy of its predecessor and carrying a ten year warranty on its motor. Leading appliance specialist, Smeg, has launched a heat pump dryer with a capacity of 7kg and a sophisticated offering of 20 programmes catering to cottons, denim, woollens, delicates, sportswear and shirts. 
whereby the heat pump re-uses the hot air from within the dryer instead of expelling it like traditional vented electrical dryers. Any excess hot air is condensed into a collection tank that can be fully plumbed or emptied periodically. – and lack of condensation and heat emissions (which mean there is no longer any need to duct the dryer).
Smeg’s new dryer features four spin speeds – 600, 800, 1000 and 1200rpm plus dry temperatures of 5 to 35°C – plus a delay start control, anti-crease cycle and reverse drum action for even drying. Users can tailor drying programmes to suit specific types of fabrics and dry to a particular level – dry enough to fold and store or to iron for example. A further plus with a heat pump dryer is that temperatures are not as high as conventional dryers so there is less chance of shrinkage or damage to cottons and woollens.
Sensor technology within the dryer means the appliance will automatically stop when the clothes have reached the required level of dryness. For convenience, and in order to access the lowest electricity rates, there is a delay start control of 0 to 24 hours. Features of the LCD display include a filter cleaning indicator, condenser cleaning indicator and time-remaining count down. The Smeg SAHP7 has a stellar six star energy rating and an optional stacking kit for use with a front loading clothes washer (Smeg has both a 7.5kg and 8kg model).
The Smeg laundry range is available from Winnings and Appliances Online and retails for $2490. Visit www.smeg.com.au for more details.
