For over a decade, the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) has been working to advance the adoption of energy-efficient residential heat pump clothes dryers. Recently, NEEA shifted its focus to commercial tumble dryers after research revealed that improving the efficiency of commercial laundry could significantly expand the reach of energy-efficient laundry products to a broader range of consumers in the Northwest.
This study was conducted in collaboration with an international hotel company and manufacturer that is bringing these products to the U.S. market. For the study, NEEA explored the energy efficiency potential of heat pump commercial tumble dryers via lab investigations to assess performance, cost-effectiveness evaluations for hotel expenditures, and estimates of regional and national energy savings.
Study findings revealed key insights into commercial tumble dryer efficiency and identified opportunities for further research tailored to the hotel industry's needs as well as the broader market. Additionally, findings will support manufacturers in refining commercial dryer product designs to better serve the U.S. market. Finally, NEEA plans to continue its collaboration with the commercial tumble dryer manufacturer to support design adjustments that can enhance the performance of current models.
