After a move the previous tumble dryer is no longer available. When comparing you find old product descriptions with A+++ and current offers with A to G. A direct comparison based only on the letter would be a poor basis. First the labelling must be correct, then the question of usage.
Use the current scale and unit
Since 1 July 2025 the European Commission explains the A to G scale for household tumble dryers. The current label shows the weighted energy consumption per 100 drying cycles. In addition there are, among other things, load capacity, duration of the Eco programme and information on condensation efficiency and noise class. The values refer to the Eco programme; other programmes may differ. [TROCKNER]
This means an old A+++ is not simply better than a today’s B or C. The letters come from different scales. For a specific offer please request the current energy label and the product data sheet belonging to the model. Do not transfer an old annual consumption figure into the new unit without an appropriate basis.
Describe the household as the basis for selection
Note what you actually want to dry and how often this is likely to occur. Which laundry is usually dried differently? How important is a short available time span to you, and when could a longer programme fit into everyday life? Those are your own planning assumptions, not statistical household values.
In the fictitious example a small household occasionally dries towels, while a second regularly wants to process larger amounts of laundry. Both initially consider the same large model. The first sensible follow-up question is now whether the appliance suits the respective usage. A maximum load stated on the label is not yet a recommendation to need that load in your own household.
Clarify the installation location before purchase
Describe the planned place and have requirements for installation and connection clarified based on the specific appliance. Ask about the necessary operating and maintenance access as well as about intended maintenance steps. The operating instructions and expert advice for the actual installation location are more suitable for this than a photo of a similarly furnished room.
This decision aid does not provide electrical connection approval and does not specify its own minimum temperature or ventilation size. If appliances are to be stacked, the specific combination intended for that must also be clarified. Suitability cannot be inferred from similar dimensions.
Calculate with an honest usage assumption
For a rough personal energy comparison you can consider the current value per 100 cycles together with your assumed usage. Keep the assumption visibly documented and label the result as guidance. The label value is neither a guaranteed single measurement of your programme nor a binding future electricity bill.
The final selection should bring together model, current labelling, household need and confirmed installation requirements. This EU product comparison applies to Austria and Germany. It does not claim a general obligation to replace existing appliances and does not turn the new labelling into a blanket purchase recommendation.