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LIFE TECH FEATURE

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Conventional dryers are expensive to run and can leave your clothes looking like they’ve re-entered the Earth’s atmosphere, so it’s no surprise that heat pump technology has become the dryer tech of choice for many Australian homes. Utilising a different technology, the moisture from the clothes is collected in a condenser. Water is then evacuated using a removable tank or directly to the waste if it’s plumbed in. The warm air is never heated to the point that it will damage clothing. Heat pump dryers are by far the most economical dryer you can buy – the trade-off is they take a little longer to dry clothes. THE HEAT IS ON

Like refrigeration, la Technological impro ancient art of wash Clean Living undry has come a l ong way. vements have mad ing and drying cloth e the es an almost enjoyable ex perience. Words Paul Jones

A longside ironing, doing the laundry is undoubtedly up there with one of the least enjoyable tasks around the home. Overflowing laundry baskets are a feature in most homes, and trying to find the time mid week, so you don’t spend all day on Sunday loading and unloading machines, is a challenge. Throw kids into the mix, and it’s a full-time job! If it’s been a while since you replaced anything in the laundry, you’ll be surprised at just how much of it has changed for the better. Smart connections Yep, you guessed it. Just like refrigeration, the latest laundry devices connect across the home network. All you need to do is install the relevant app. It’s probably a question you’re asking yourself – why do a washer and a dryer need to connect to the home network? Have you ever loaded a washing machine and ran out the door, forgetting to put it on? No problem. Just call up the app and start it with a stab of the finger. Some machines even support voice control through Alexa and Google Assistant, so providing the machine is loaded, you can start or pause an action with your voice. Modern washers can also determine the type of washing loaded and select the appropriate

cycle to suit. Auto dosing is another new feature worth talking about. Now you can take the guesswork out of adding the right amount of detergent and softener – the machine does it all for you, working out exactly how much to apply to each load. It’s good for the pocket and the environment. Another neat feature of washers is the steam cycle.

types and moisture levels, and then apportion the right amount of heat to complete the dry. And if you’ve vowed never to use a tumble dryer again after it shrunk your favourite top, fear not. Sensors will measure humidity and

temperature to prevent the clothes from being overheated. Pair Up If you’re looking for a

Depending on the brand – and not all brands have it – a steam cycle can help to eliminate bacteria and the bugs that can cause allergies. Additionally, some systems are designed to use

washer and dryer, it’s worth considering a duo designed to work together. The connected couple work in unison, so the washer will communicate with the dryer what type of load it’s cleaning, and the dryer will adjust its settings accordingly. All you need to do is load the washer, then the dryer, and let the AI do the rest! With bigger capacities, better, more varied programs, and excellent energy and water management, now could be the perfect time for that laundry upgrade.

steam to break up stubborn dirt and stains and to alleviate the amount of ironing required post-wash. On the drying side,

connectivity means you can also start the dryer remotely. The app will also let you track energy consumption so you can keep an eye on your power bills. Some smart dryers have in-built sensors that weigh the load, identify fabric

48 SEPTEMBER 2022

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