Siemens heat pump tumble dryers are freestanding 9 kg models from the iQ500 and iQ700 series. They suit households that tumble dry often and want to keep running costs down. A heat pump dryer warms and reuses the same air in a closed loop instead of heating fresh air for every cycle. That way it uses much less electricity than a conventional condenser or vented dryer. These dryers cost more to buy and cycles take longer, but the savings build up with regular use. No outside vent is needed either.

Every model has the same drum size, so the real differences are series, features and finish. The iQ500 dryers offer 13 or 14 drying programmes. The iQ700 models have 16 and are slightly quieter, at 59 dB compared with 60 to 61 dB. All but one are Wi-Fi connected and work with Siemens' Home Connect app, so you can start or check a cycle from your phone and get a notification when it finishes. Both series come in white or silver inox.

To narrow it down, start with where the dryer will go and how you like to use it. If it will sit near a living space, or you want the widest choice of fabric programmes, the iQ700 is worth the step up. If app control doesn't matter to you, the non-connected iQ500 keeps things simple. Since every model here is freestanding, you'll see the same choice under Siemens freestanding heat pump tumble dryers. To browse the brand's wider line-up, visit all Siemens products.