Fisher and Paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer: Complete Product Manual & Review

Introduction

The fisher and paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer is a premium 8kg laundry solution designed for modern households seeking efficiency without the need for external venting. This innovative condenser dryer utilizes advanced technology to extract moisture from clothes, collecting it in a removable water tank or pumping it directly to a drain, making it ideal for apartments, townhouses, or homes where installing a traditional vent is difficult or impossible . Its standout feature is the Auto-Sensing system, which automatically detects the dryness level of the load and shuts off the cycle once the selected setting is reached, preventing over-drying and significantly reducing energy consumption .

Targeted at families with heavy laundry loads and allergy sufferers, the AeroXL™ offers a healthier drying environment by reducing moisture and allergens released into the room compared to front-venting dryers . The machine features a user-friendly SmartTouch™ control dial, nine drying programs including Delicate and Heavy, and a dedicated drying rack for items that cannot be tumble-dried . With a price range of approximately $899 AUD (RRP), it offers a balance of high capacity and smart technology for the mid-to-upper market segment . Available widely across Australia and New Zealand, this dryer is designed to stack seamlessly with matching Fisher & Paykel washing machines for a stylish, space-saving laundry setup .

Specifications

The fisher and paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer delivers robust performance with an 8kg capacity, capable of handling large family loads, including up to 4kg of sheeting at one time . The condensing technology ensures that no external venting is required, a key advantage over traditional vented models . Below are the detailed technical specifications and performance metrics:

Capacity: 8 kg (maximum dry weight)
Dimensions: 600mm (Width) x 850mm (Height) x 645mm–650mm (Depth)
Electrical Requirements: 220–240V, 50Hz, 10 Amps maximum
Heating Power: 1800W
Drying Programs: 9 programs (including Delicate, Heavy, Freshen, Time Dry 30/60/90 mins)
Dryness Levels: 5 levels from Damp to Extra Dry
Temperature Settings: 4 distinct settings
Features: Auto-Sensing, Reverse Tumbling, Interior Light, Wrinkle-Free Option, End of Cycle Signal
Water Management: Removable water tank (top left) or direct drain hose connection (1300mm length)
Warranty: 2 years parts and labour
Energy Rating: 2 Stars

Compared to similar 8kg condenser dryers, the AeroXL™ stands out with its Auto-Sensing technology and SmartTouch™ dial, offering more intuitive control and better energy efficiency by preventing unnecessary cycle extension . While it has a 2-star energy rating, the auto-sensing feature compensates by optimizing run times based on actual moisture levels .

Setup Guide

Setting up your fisher and paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer is straightforward due to its no-vent design, but attention to leveling and drainage is critical for optimal performance.

Step-by-Step Installation

Location Selection: Install the dryer in a well-ventilated, dust-free environment. Ensure the area is free from temperatures that could damage the unit .
Leveling the Dryer:
- Place a level on the left side of the dryer and adjust the front-left foot (wind down) until level .
- Repeat for the front-right foot to ensure equal weight distribution .
- Place the level at the center front to confirm the dryer does not rock in any direction .
- Cabinet corners must be clear of the floor and walls after leveling .
Water Drainage Options:
- Option A (Tank): Ensure the removable water tank is correctly inserted at the top left. Empty this tank after every cycle .
- Option B (Drain): Connect the 1300mm drain hose to the outlet, hooking it into a standpipe or tub. Ensure the hose is not kinked .
Filter Installation: Verify the lint filter, condenser filter, and foam filter are correctly in place before powering on .
Power Connection: Plug the cord into a 220–240V, 10-amp circuit and switch on power .
Test Cycle:
- Press POWER to activate. Select the TIME DRY cycle for 30 minutes with an empty drum .
- Ensure the door is closed securely. The dryer will auto-off if no problems are detected .
- Do not dry items until the test cycle is successfully completed .

Configuration & Connectivity

The AeroXL™ uses a SmartTouch™ dial rather than digital connectivity. To customize a cycle (e.g., DRY TEMP), press POWER, turn the dial to the desired cycle, and touch the option button for 3 seconds until lights flash and the display shows the adjustment mode .

Safety Warnings

Never dry a sheet load exceeding 4kg .
Ensure the water tank is empty if using the tank method; a full tank will stop the cycle .
Keep the bottom of the dryer free of dust to prevent overheating .

Troubleshooting

If your fisher and paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer encounters issues, refer to this guide for common problems and solutions. The dryer includes user warnings and fault codes to assist in diagnosis.

Common Problems & Solutions

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Dryer does not start	Power cord unplugged or power off	Ensure cord is plugged in and power is on. Check household supply with another appliance .
	Electronic lock/reset needed	Press POWER to turn off, unplug for 60 seconds, plug back in, and restart .
Dryer not heating	Set to 'Air Dry' cycle	Select a heated cycle (e.g., Normal, Heavy) .
	Water tank full	Empty the removable water tank immediately .
	Cool/End phase active	Verify 'Cool' and 'End' lights are not on; the cycle may be finishing .
Stops mid-cycle	Power failure or door open	Check power source. Ensure door is securely closed, then press button to restart .
Long drying times	Clogged filters or overloaded drum	Clean lint filter and condenser. Ensure tank is empty and load is not oversized .
	Drain hose issue	Check drain hose is clean and not kinked .
Fault codes/unfamiliar lights	System error	Turn off, wait 30 seconds, turn on. If persistent, contact an authorized repairer .

Preventive Measures

Regular Cleaning: Clean the fluff filter, condenser filter, and foam filter regularly. Wipe the drum with a damp cloth and lemon cleaner to maintain hygiene .
Dust Management: Ensure the bottom of the dryer remains dust-free to prevent heating issues .
Load Management: Avoid overloading; follow the 8kg max capacity and 4kg sheet limit .

Warranty & Support

The fisher and paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer comes with a 2-year parts and labour warranty . For issues not resolved by troubleshooting, contact an authorized Fisher & Paykel repairer. Visit the official Fisher & Paykel website for regional support contacts and warranty registration .

Pros & Cons

Here is a balanced assessment of the fisher and paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer to help you determine its value for your household.

Pros

No External Venting Required: The condenser technology allows installation in apartments or homes without vent access, a significant advantage over vented models .
Auto-Sensing Efficiency: Automatically detects moisture levels and shuts off when dry, reducing energy use and preventing fabric damage from over-drying .
High Capacity: The 8kg drum handles large family loads and up to 4kg of sheets, making it ideal for busy households .
Versatile Cycles: Includes 9 programs (Delicate, Heavy, Freshen) and a drying rack for non-tumble items, offering flexibility for all fabric types .
SmartTouch™ Control: The intuitive dial makes cycle selection and customization (e.g., temperature) easy and user-friendly .
Stackable Design: Designed to match and stack with Fisher & Paykel washing machines, maximizing laundry room storage .

Cons

Energy Rating: Rated at 2 stars, which is lower than some modern heat-pump dryers, potentially leading to higher electricity costs over time .
Water Tank Maintenance: If not connected to a drain, the water tank must be emptied after every cycle, which can be inconvenient for heavy users .
Drying Time: Condenser dryers generally take longer to dry clothes compared to vented dryers, especially with large loads .
Heat Output: As a condenser model, it releases warm air into the room, which may require a well-ventilated space to prevent humidity buildup .

Value for Money: At approximately $899, the AeroXL™ offers strong value for those needing a no-vent solution with high capacity. While heat-pump alternatives are more energy-efficient, the AeroXL™'s auto-sensing and robust build justify its price for families prioritizing convenience and capacity .

Customer Reviews

Real user feedback highlights the practical strengths and minor drawbacks of the fisher and paykel AeroXL™ Condenser Clothes Dryer.

Common Praises: Users frequently rate the dryer at 4.5 out of 5 stars, praising the 8kg capacity for handling large loads effortlessly. The Auto-Sensing feature is a top favorite, with many noting it saves time and protects clothing . The "no venting" capability is highly appreciated by apartment dwellers, who find the installation simple and effective . The included drying rack is also a popular addition for delicate items .

Common Complaints: Some users report that drying times are longer than expected, particularly for heavy fabrics, which is typical for condenser technology . A few reviews mention the need to frequently empty the water tank if a drain hose isn't used, describing it as a minor inconvenience . The 2-star energy rating is noted by energy-conscious buyers as a drawback compared to newer heat-pump models .

Purchase Recommendation: The AeroXL™ is recommended for households with high laundry volumes who lack venting options. It is an excellent choice for families who prioritize capacity and ease of use over maximum energy efficiency. For those with space for a drain hose, the tank-emptying issue is easily resolved, making it a solid, reliable purchase .

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