Little-known button on tumble dryers could cut bills by £35 a year

As winter approaches, many households face rising energy bills while trying to keep laundry dry. While tumble dryers are a staple in countless homes, they are also among the most expensive appliances to run.

An energy expert at Grant Store say a simple, often overlooked feature on many modern machines could save families money and help keep clothes in better condition.

“Most modern tumble dryers have a ‘sensor dry’ function. This automatically detects when your clothes are dry and switches the machine off,” the expert said.

“It prevents over-drying, which wastes energy and damages fabrics, and it can cut drying costs by up to 20%.”

A typical vented tumble dryer can cost around £179 a year to operate. Using the sensor dry feature could save around £35 annually, bringing the total closer to £144. For more efficient heat pump dryers, which already cost about £76 a year, the savings are smaller but still meaningful at roughly £15.

“It might not sound like a huge amount, but across the winter it adds up. And because the feature is built in, it costs nothing extra to access,” the expert said.

Some dryers activate sensor drying automatically, while others require users to select it manually. Households unsure whether their machine has the function should check the user manual or search the model online.

Experts also stressed the importance of cleaning lint filters regularly. A blocked filter forces the dryer to work harder, increasing energy use and prolonging drying times. Cleaning it after each use not only reduces costs but also keeps the appliance safe and efficient.

For further savings, households can consider alternatives to tumble drying. Heated clothes airers, costing just pennies an hour to run, or dehumidifiers, which pull moisture from the air, are more energy-efficient options.

Experts warn against drying clothes on radiators, as this forces central heating to work harder and increases energy bills.

“The sensor dry button is a small change that makes a big difference. It saves money, saves energy, and extends the life of your clothes. In the current climate, those savings matter more than ever,” the expert added.