Some dryers can take up a surprising amount of space, especially when you take venting and positioning requirements into consideration. But the Whirlpool LDR3822PQ offers a great solution, even if it does sacrifice some drum capacity in the process. This electric model has a depth of under 21 inches, can be stacked and, with a ventless kit, you don’t need to worry about positioning it for appropriate venting either.
If large laundry loads are common for you, or you regularly wash bulky items, then the 3.4 cubic foot capacity drum might not be enough. For larger drum options, take a look at the other options on our round up of the best dryers. Compared to some options on that list, the Whirlpool LDR3822PQ is a simple option with fewer features, but for anyone who needs to squeeze a dryer into a tight spot, it offers good drying performance without taking up much space.
Whirlpool LDR3822PQ: Pricing and value
The Whirlpool LDR3822PQ is cost effective, priced at around $700. This makes it considerably cheaper than the ventless Whirlpool WHD560CHW, but only about $100 cheaper than the LG DLE7300VE, which offers a much wider range of features, including smart home connectivity. However, they aren’t small machines and the options for good compact models are far more limited. For a compact, 120V dryer, the Whirlpool LDR3822PQ still offers great value for money. It’s not the fastest dryer, but still well worth considering.
Unlike the LG DLE7300VE and the Whirlpool WHD560CHW, the Whirlpool LDR3822PQ isn’t Energy Star certified so it’s not as energy efficient which is disappointing.
Whirlpool LDR3822PQ: Features
The Whirlpool LDR3822PQ walks a fine line between drum capacity and overall size. It’s a small machine that is designed to fit in a wide range of spaces. To this end, it is stackable, comes with wheel attachments, and has a relatively shallow depth to allow it to squeeze into spaces other dryers simply can’t. It is a vented model, so it’s important to keep this in mind when choosing the best spot to place it, or you can choose to buy a kit that allows you to convert it into a ventless model.
This dryer utilizes Whirlpool’s AccuDry™ sensor drying system, which consists of multiple sensors that measure moisture and temperature levels, adjusting the cycle time accordingly to prevent your laundry from overdrying. An Air Dry cycle also helps prevent heat damage to delicate fabrics. It can air and refresh loads without adding any heat. In terms of regular cycles, this dryer has three drying cycles, as well as two drying temperatures. This is a little limited when compared to other larger dryers, especially the LG DLE7300VE.
As a vented model, the Whirlpool LDR3822PQ can be more difficult to install than a ventless dryer, but the accompanying guide is comprehensive. You will need a heavy metal vent, as opposed to a plastic or metal foil vent. You will also need a grounded electrical outlet located within 2 feet of either side of the dryer and a 120V, 60 Hz., AC only, 15 or 20 A circuit.
The Whirlpool LDR3822PQ comes with a one-year parts and labor warranty, which is standard for dryers.
Whirlpool LDR3822PQ: User reviews
Users love the Whirlpool LDR3822PQ, scoring it an average of 4.5 out of 5 on the Lowe’s website. Some noted that while drying time is a little on the slow side, which they expected from a 120V dryer, they were actually surprised that it did dry quicker than they anticipated it would. One commented: “For a 120V dryer, it dries clothes much quicker than I expected, as compared to the older one replaced. It's easy to operate, has very good capacity and performs as advertised”. The odd user was disappointed with the time it took to dry heavy loads and some had balance issues: “I don’t know yet if balancing can be fixed, but definitely needs it. Doesn’t always seem to spin out well, I guess 4 pairs of jeans is too much for it. [It’s] definitely for small loads”.
Overall, users were really happy with this dryer, especially considering its compact size. One user said: “This dryer is perfect for a small living area or a 5th wheel, as in our case. This dryer heats up nicely and dries clothes very nicely. Of course, like all compacts, it may take a little longer and you may only be able to dry fewer pieces at a time, but it works like a champ”.
Should you buy the Whirlpool LDR3822PQ?
If space is at a premium in your home, this is a great dryer for you. It’s one of the top compact options on the market that may be less powerful than larger dryers, but considering this, the drying times are still good. It is a little light on features and drying cycle options, so if compactness isn’t a priority you could get a lot more dryer for your money but opting for a dryer like the LG DLE7300VE, which comes with WiFi connectivity and a much wider range of drying cycles.
The Whirlpool LDR3822PQ is a vented model, and while it can be converted to be ventless, for ease you can opt for a ventless model outright. However, ventless models are usually much more expensive. The Whirlpool WHD560CHW, for example, is more than double the price, but it does also offer more than double the drum capacity too.
