Hand dryer: types, choice, rating

What is a hand dryer

Before choosing a hand dryer, you need to understand what it is, how it works and how it works. This is an electrical appliance that can be connected to any network. In most cases, the dryer is hung on the walls near the sink.

The principle of operation is to blow on the palms placed under a stream of warm air. This drying method is the most hygienic - because there is no direct contact with the device. The use of the hand dryer fully complies with current sanitary standards. That is why the devices are installed in crowded places: from schools and hospitals to airports and shops. Installing the device is quite simple; installation does not take much time and does not require specific skills.

Principle of operation

The operation of an automatic hand dryer is very simple. There are only two activation options:

a sensor that is triggered by contactless swiping along the activation line;
models with a button.

In the case of an infrared sensor, it is enough to hold your palm next to the hole from which the heated air is supplied. When the device is turned on, a stream of hot air under pressure is supplied from the hole. You can dry your palms in about 10-15 seconds.

Important! Manufacturers provide the ability to customize settings. You can choose the temperature and intensity of the blowing. Some cases have a timer that allows you to set the operating time yourself. Having reached the set time, the dryer turns off.

Most of all, the internal structure of the hand dryer resembles a regular household hair dryer. There is a classic cooler inside the case, but its dimensions may vary. The heating element passes air through itself, blowing it into the nozzle. Electronics in the dryer include an operation activator, sensor or button. The material and shape of the case can vary significantly.

Parameters of electric hand dryers

When considering the design of electric hand dryers, you need to know the main characteristics that affect the operation of the entire device. These characteristics are:

Power: The total power consumption of an electric hand dryer is the sum of the heating element power and the fan power.
Air heating temperature: too high a temperature dries out the skin of the hands, and a low temperature increases the drying time.
Air flow speed (fan performance): High air speed is justified at high heating temperatures, which significantly reduces drying time.
Noise and vibration level: fan operation is accompanied by the generation of noise and vibration, which are minimized by using sound and vibration insulation of the housing.
Control system: can be automatic with a complete absence of contact between a person and the device, or mechanical with the need to manually turn on the hand dryer.

Considering the slight complexity of the design of electric hand dryers, it is necessary to point out that their quality and reliability directly depend on the selected materials and the quality of the components. Some unscrupulous manufacturers resort to imitation of high-quality materials and use short-lived components. After a short period of use, such products begin to emit loud noise, the heating temperature drops, vibration occurs, or the unit completely fails. Therefore, when choosing an electric hand dryer, you need to give preference to well-known companies and check for quality certificates. The shape of the dryer body, although it is one of the main selection criteria, has little effect on performance characteristics. One of the important parameters of the case may be its vandal-proof design and shock resistance. The quality of the heating element and fan is much more difficult to check, so you should rely on accompanying documents and certificates. Taking into account the peculiarities of determining the quality of electric hand dryers, the best option when choosing is to involve an experienced specialist who will help you choose the right model.

Types of dryers

Hand dryers fall into three categories.

Classic. These are the most common dryer models, equipped with mechanical or infrared switching. The body is made of plastic or metal. Drying occurs due to intensive blowing with hot air. The appearance of the device differs depending on the manufacturer and purpose. These dryers are most suitable for everyday use at home. Classic models are found in public areas under video surveillance.
Express. Here, the drying of the palms is carried out through a rapid supply of air. The air itself does not heat up much. The moisture from the palms does not evaporate, but is blown away under pressure. Flowing drops are collected in a tank specially designed for this purpose, which has an outlet into the sewer. The dimensions of high-speed dryers are slightly larger than traditional ones. This is due to the size of the fan installed in them. High speed dryers also produce significantly more noise.
Anti-vandal. The name of the category speaks for itself. The anti-vandal model is designed taking into account operation in unguarded places. Such devices have a high safety margin. Dryers can often be found in common areas that are not equipped with a continuous monitoring system.

Important! According to the installation option, wall-mounted models predominate, although floor-standing ones are also occasionally found.

What material is the body made of?

Hand dryers can have a metal or plastic body. The choice must be made taking into account possible acts of vandalism. A metal case has anti-vandal properties, but not all metal cases have it.

As a rule, if a product is anti-vandal, then the manufacturer prescribes this characteristic in the product labeling. For offices, this indicator is not as important as for school restrooms or public toilets in nightclubs.

Some plastic hand dryers also have anti-vandal characteristics, but only those that were made of impact-resistant plastic.

How to choose a hand dryer

To choose the most suitable electric towel (as a regular dryer is sometimes called), focus on the following criteria.

Power level

Of course, power is one of the most significant selection criteria. It determines how effective the dryer will be.

Based on power, models are conventionally divided into 3 categories:

low level up to 1 kW;
average up to 2 kW;
high level - indicator above 2 kW.

The powerful dryer has high efficiency: the heating element takes up to 90% of the maximum performance of the electric motor. All these parameters are displayed on the box with the device or in the technical data sheet of the product.

Important! On expensive models there is an adjustment of the blowing power level. A dryer with this feature is more convenient for everyday use.

The lower the power level, the more economical the device will be. But we must not forget that along with power, its efficiency also decreases. Most users opt for dryers of medium and high power. Models with a high airflow rate can harm the skin of your hands, so they are not suitable for everyone.

Switching method

Activation of work using a button is gradually being replaced by contactless. Professional models are equipped with infrared sensors almost without exception.

Important! The main reason for the mass refusal of buttons by manufacturers is compliance with hygiene standards. Hundreds of people can touch the button during the day, as a result, many microorganisms and pathogenic bacteria will accumulate on it.

A common problem with push-button dryers is moisture getting inside. Regular pressing of the activation mechanism leads to gradual pressing of the button and rapid failure. These dryers require more frequent maintenance. But push-button models have a significant advantage: they do not turn on independently.

Among contactless models, dryers with an infrared sensor are most often found. Just run your wet palm along the activation line, and the device automatically turns on. As a result, there is no tactile contact, the surface of the palm remains clean, and hygiene standards are met. In some models, the user lowers his hands into a special compartment where the blowing occurs (immersion dryer); in all other cases, the air is blown out of a nozzle located on the bottom of the body.

When drying the palms is complete, the user simply removes their hands and the device turns off automatically. The disadvantage of such a dryer is a fairly large number of false positives. All it takes is a fly flying along the trigger line and the sensor will give the command to start. The result is increased electricity consumption. You can try to optimize the installation location, but this will not be an absolute guarantee against false alarms.

Material of manufacture

There are 2 housing options: plastic (budget models) and metal (much more expensive). Dryers with a plastic body are inexpensive, but subject to rapid wear. The thickness of the plastic may vary depending on the specifications.

Advice! When choosing, it is recommended to pay attention to the absence of backlashes, cracks, and poorly secured parts.

Sometimes the manufacturer paints the plastic case in a metallic color. Most often this is done in order to make it look like a more expensive material. It is quite difficult to distinguish such models visually. The most durable plastic materials are polypropylene and polycarbonate.

Metal dryers are made from two types of iron. Stainless steel will last longer, but costs more. Anodized aluminum is more affordable, but less durable. Anti-vandal options are made from alloys that eliminate the possibility of denting, scratching the case or causing other damage to it.

Drying speed

This indicator is tied to the power of the dryer. High-speed models easily dry your palms in 10 seconds. Medium-power dryers will cope with the task in an average of 20 seconds. Budget options may take 30 seconds or more to completely dry.

The more powerful the fan and heating element, the more noise the device makes. However, in expensive dryers the body has some degree of sound insulation. In public places, especially where it is loud (airports, music clubs), this criterion is not so significant. However, in an office, a loud dryer can attract undue attention.

Safety

The most important attribute of any electrical appliance. Hand dryers can be equipped with a protected housing that masks the wire going to the outlet. It should also be remembered that if the device is installed in a house where small children live, the installation height of the hand dryer must be appropriate.

Important! If the housing is made of solid plastic, you should ensure that the material is not flammable. With metal models, you should pay attention to the degree of waterproofing of all electronics.

Noise level

Industrial models designed for a large flow of people are equipped with a powerful engine. Accordingly, the sound they produce is very high. Such dryers should not be installed in places designed for quiet time (cafes, restaurants, offices).

For home use, models with the lowest sound parameters are recommended. Any false alarm, especially at night, can lead to stress or fear and wake up children.

Additional functions

Some models can be equipped with additional features. Most often this is a blowing power regulator and an adjustable timer. But some manufacturers equip their models with additional antibacterial options, such as an ultraviolet lamp. The use of such a dryer not only prevents pathogenic bacteria from entering the outer layer of the epidermis, but also additionally sanitizes the treated areas. Touch control of temperature and airflow intensity are additional options found only in expensive models.

Premium dryers

Electrolux EHDA/BV-1900

The product went on sale back in 2021 and immediately gained wide popularity among users. This design is distinguished by the use of a number of original features. In particular, the main working element here is a brushless motor, which operates quite quietly and consumes a minimal amount of electricity. In addition, the latest air filtration system has been installed here, which will further purify the air in the room. The dryer is equipped with a very convenient contactless infrared sensor. It is very sensitive - it is triggered when a person brings his hands to the outlet. Disabling occurs at the same moment when a person removes his brushes.

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This significantly helps to save energy - due to reduced switching on and off intervals. This equipment has the latest technology called Complex Filtration, which includes three levels of purification at once - pre-filtration, Nera filter and subsequent air sterilization with ultraviolet rays. The brushless motor can dry your hands in a short time - it only takes 8 seconds. The warranty period is a full 5 years. To make the product even more convenient to use, it has a light indication that displays key operating modes. The product is made from reliable ABS plastic, which can ensure stable operation for many years.

Advantages:

The build quality is excellent, there are no backlashes or extraneous squeaks;
Long period of operation;
Dries hands quickly.

Flaws:

High price.

Electrolux EHDA/BV-1900

Starmix XT 3000

This high-speed, highly economical and efficient hand dryer is one of the best in its class. It is capable of producing a very powerful air stream, the speed of which is 540 km/h, due to which drops of water are blown off the surface of the skin in a matter of seconds, and hands are completely dry in 10-11 seconds. The design is equipped with four infrared sensors. The water that is blown away from your hands accumulates in a special reservoir, which can be emptied if necessary. The model is equipped with electronic indicators that will promptly inform the user that the collector is full. In addition, there is an indication notifying you when the air filter needs to be replaced. To make the device run quieter, its power rating can be reduced to 740 W.

The case is made of high-quality matte plastic of increased strength, on which no dirt will be noticeable. The dryer is equipped with a filtration system based on a double Nera filter. This allows for fairly long-lasting protection against mold, germs and harmful bacteria. The dryer has a massage effect; if desired, you can use replaceable scented cartridges. Using the device is very easy and simple. If a person keeps their hands in the device for too long, the device will automatically turn off after 25 seconds. This dryer is best suited for public places where there are a huge number of people every day.

Advantages:

Efficient design;
Long service life;
The product is equipped with a massage effect;
There is an air filtration system.

Flaws:

High price.

Starmix XT 3000

Dyson Airblade dB AB14

The leader in this section of the best hand dryers is this very original design that combines excellent efficiency and functionality with low noise levels. This high-speed model is suitable for any toilet rooms, regardless of their location. The noise level of the engine and injectors has been reduced, which has increased the air flow speed to 690 km/h. The product works very quickly. The air exits through holes whose diameter is only 0.3 mm. The product uses a Dyson V4 digital motor. It was developed for quite a long time - engineers worked on it for about 7 years. Today it is the world's smallest design, with a power of 1600 W, and it is also fully integrated. This is the only model in similar devices that is capable of passing through itself up to 35 liters of air per second.

This is a very efficient motor whose digital pulse changes about 6000 times per second. There are only three rotating parts in it; there are no wearing elements, which allows you to significantly extend the service life of this device. There is a Nera filtration system, thanks to which about 99.9% of bacteria are removed from the air. The dryer is designed specifically for long-term use. This device has excellent resistance to physical or chemical influences. The materials are reliable and have increased strength. The warranty is a full 5 years.

Advantages:

Dries hands very quickly;
High quality workmanship;
Long service life;
Original appearance.

Flaws:

Expensive products.

Dyson Airblade dB AB14

Top 5 dryers

We offer a review of five hand dryers with great productivity and an optimal price-quality ratio.

Electric hand dryer Puff 8820

The rating of hand dryers opens with a model from Puff. Most often it can be found in public places with noise level requirements. The dryer operates quite quietly, consumes little electricity and at the same time has a high power of 2 kW. The maximum air flow speed is 9.5 m/s.

Important! The body made of impact-resistant ABS plastic is lightweight and compact, so the dryer can be hung even in a small bathroom. But the model is designed for a calm, moderate audience; anti-vandal reinforcement is not provided.

The classic infrared sensor serves as the activator. When assembled, the dryer weighs only 2.4 kg. Airflow is carried out from a nozzle located at the lower end of the housing. The reliability of the device is confirmed by many positive reviews. The dryer is unpretentious in operation and maintenance. Thanks to contactless activation, the device can be used in hospitals, because all sanitary requirements for the device are met.

Pros:

reliable;
inexpensive;
contactless start;
a light weight;
easy installation;
work from a household electrical network;
durable body.

Minuses:

false positives;
plastic turns yellow over time;
no anti-vandal protection.

Hand dryer Ballu BAHD-2000DM Chrome

The rating of the best hand dryers continues with the model from the Ballu brand. The domestic manufacturer of climate control equipment offers an updated version of the popular line. The device has several patented improvements. The changed angle of airflow on the palms has now become even more comfortable; it is 30 degrees. The new model of the infrared sensor has many false alarms, and it is also active all the time. The built-in sensor is located in such a way that the response to a palm brought to it occurs almost instantly, without delay. The durable plastic case prevents color changes due to “fading” of the paint applied to it.

A special template is supplied with the dryer for easy installation. Almost any user who has never encountered such devices before can install Ballu BAHD-2000DM. The device is designed in such a way that it no longer requires grounding. Electrical protection class has been increased to second. The highest air flow speed is 15 m/s. Moreover, the device weighs only 2.1 kg. You can buy a dryer for an average of 4,590 rubles.

Pros:

updated sensor that eliminates false alarms;
high-quality plastic housing;
airflow angle, adding comfort when drying;
powerful air flow;
modern design;
increased electrical protection class;
vertical installation;
Activation of airflow without delay.

Minuses:

high price;
small plastic thickness;
high noise level.

Hand dryer NEOCLIMA NHD-2.0

In 3rd place in the ranking of the best models is a mini hand dryer from. This is a compact model with a modern design. Perfect for bathrooms in offices or small cafes. The case is made of durable plastic and is resistant to scratches and chips. The device turns on and off automatically, just move your palms slightly to the side. Drying occurs in just 10-15 seconds. At the same time, the small-sized dryer consumes little electricity and is very easy to install. The class of protection against dust and moisture is IP 23. The maximum level of noise emitted is 64 dB; with good sound insulation of the bathroom, the noise is practically inaudible. The device is powered from a regular network. The weight of the device is only 2.5 kg. The cost of the device is only 2770 rubles.

Pros:

high-tech design;
easy installation;
convenient airflow;
quick drying;
trusted manufacturer;
high-quality plastic;
affordable price.

Minuses:

quite noisy;
no air temperature adjustment;
no anti-vandal protection.

BXG Jet 7000 High-speed immersion hand dryer

In second place is the submersible model BXG Jet 7000. This is a functional device that has a blowing speed of as much as 95 m/s. The body is made of ABS plastic, a very high quality material that does not burn or conduct electricity. Protection against water and dust at IPX4 level. The maximum level of electricity consumption is only 1.9 kW. The drying speed of both palms is only 7 seconds. At maximum load the noise level is 78 dB.

The unusual submersible form factor makes the device interesting and in demand. At the top end of the case there is a digital screen and operation indicators. Several infrared sensors allow you to accurately determine the position of your palm relative to the blowing nozzle. Activation of the device occurs almost instantly, while false alarms are excluded. The device costs a lot of money - about 26,000 rubles.

Pros:

high power;
efficiency;
excellent protection from dust and moisture;
reliability;
excellent assembly;
durable;
does not require additional maintenance.

Minuses:

expensive;
makes a lot of noise;
expensive repairs in case of breakdown.

Hand dryer Dyson Airblade V HU02 Nickel

The first line is occupied by a real “monster” of airflow, a model from Dyson. The blowing speed is a record 190 m/s with a power of only 1000 W. Thanks to this efficiency, the maximum time until the palms are completely dry is 12 seconds. There is a timer on the case, after which the device turns off automatically, even if your hands are in the field of action of the sensors.

The new technology does not blow away, but “cuts” liquid from the surface of the skin. Moreover, the blowing occurs as hygienically as possible. In one second, up to 30 liters of air are pumped from the hole! The maximum noise level is 79 dB. The device will cost the user a tidy sum - as much as 70,030 rubles.

Pros:

edge design;
blowing speed 690 km/h;
innovative blowing technology;
there is a timer;
control using sensors;
reliable;
famous brand.

Minuses:

high price;
there are no operation indicators;
expensive service.

Inexpensive price category

BXG-180a

This is a Chinese product housed in a high-quality stainless steel case. The device looks quite attractive, but it has decent overall dimensions of 240x205x255 mm and weighs 5 kg. The power of the equipment is 1.8 kW - quite decent for a household device. The average time required to completely dry your hands is 10-12 seconds, as stated by the manufacturer, but in fact it is much longer. It all depends on how damp a person's hands are. As users note, you can dry them in about 20 seconds. The air flow speed is also quite high - the instructions say 90 meters per second. The volume of air flow is quite decent: about 200 cubic meters pass through the device per hour. the heating element heats the air to a temperature of about 45-50 degrees. The noise level is decent.

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This model is equipped with a proximity sensor. The case is equipped with decorative elements, which allows it to fit organically into any interior. The model turns off automatically about a second after the person removes his hands. The sensitivity of the sensor is very high; if necessary, it can be adjusted depending on the conditions of use. The standard warranty period is 1 year. The products can be used both in domestic conditions and in cafes, restaurants, hotels and so on. The dryer has an IPX1 degree of protection and can withstand even fairly strong impacts.

Advantages:

High power rating;
Reliable and sensitive proximity sensor;
Metal body;
Attractive appearance;
Long service life.

Flaws:

It weighs quite a lot.

BXG-180a

PUFF-8814

This unit is excellent for use in areas where there are not too many people. This model is housed in a high-quality plastic case. It has several stiffening ribs and a fairly attractive appearance, thanks to which it can become an excellent addition to any interior, made in both a classic and the most modern format. The device is very convenient to use, and it has a very long service life. The body has increased strength, the wall thickness is increased. The overall dimensions are not very large, so it is suitable even for compact spaces. The product is simple and convenient to use and has a long service life.

This design will serve for a very long time at home, since it will be used there much less often than in public places. The sound insulation is good, so the sound made by the dryer is not too loud. The product does not require any special care. The maximum air temperature is 80 degrees, it leaves the unit at a speed of up to 6.1 meters per second - approximately 15-20 seconds will be enough to thoroughly dry your hands. The cost of the product is quite reasonable. For wall mounting, the kit includes special fasteners.

Advantages:

Small overall dimensions;
High quality manufacturing and assembly;
Long period of operation;
Reliability and safety of use.

Flaws:

Despite the high air temperature, you still have to spend a decent amount of time drying your skin.

PUFF-8814

Neoclima NHD 2.0

This model is characterized by fairly high performance qualities, which makes it perfect for public places; it can be installed in schools and kindergartens. The body of this device is made of impact-resistant plastic. The dryer turns on automatically - just raise your hands. There are two operating modes: blowing cold air and heated air. Distinctive qualities are the reduced power consumption of this device and its durability in relation to strong physical stress. The materials from which this product is made are of high quality; they have previously passed a large number of different tests.

The equipment is very easy to use, and the installation process takes minimal time. The flow rate is quite high, which allows you to dry your hands quite quickly: it takes about 10-15 seconds. The design looks quite attractive and will organically fit into any interior, both a public place and a home bathroom or toilet. Users speak well of this product; unfortunately, it is quite noisy during operation.

Advantages:

Acceptable cost of the device;
Heats well and produces a strong air flow;
Duration of operation.

Flaws:

Except for noise, none detected.

Neoclima NHD 2.0

G-teq 8820pw

It has a traditional appearance for this product - it is quite stylish, simple and well recognizable. This design is perfect for placement in public toilets in cafes, restaurants, hotels, clubs, even in private houses and apartments. The rated power of this equipment is 2 kW. The overall dimensions are decent, so the dryer will require a lot of free space on the wall; they are 230x240x240 mm. The case is made of high-quality plastic that is resistant to sudden changes in temperature, humidity and other physical influences. It is worth noting that it is not only shock-resistant, but also has excellent noise-absorbing characteristics. With a low noise level, it is characterized by decent power and ease of use. The product is safe and reliable.

It is made and assembled with very high quality, thanks to which the product fully meets all sanitary and hygienic standards. The product is supplied with a power cord and a Euro plug; its length is more than a meter. The activation system is automated and uses infrared sensors. The engine is quite powerful, so your hands dry much faster. The autonomy of the product is high, so it can be placed in places where maintenance personnel do not appear very often.

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Advantages:

Long service life;
High-quality assembly;
Reasonable cost;
High power level.

Flaws:

Not detected.

G-teq 8820pw

Recommendations for installing the dryer

Like any device that requires installation, a hand dryer requires some skill. For trouble-free operation, just follow a few simple rules.

Please read the included installation instructions before hanging up your hand dryer. If you have any questions, it is better to look for video instructions on the Internet, or seek help from a professional.
The electric towel is attached using plastic dowels included in the package.
The installation location must be taken into account. In small rooms where only external finishing is planned, you can consider a built-in model. Installing a built-in dryer is somewhat more complicated, but it takes up less space.
An electrical outlet is required to connect the dryer. It is much safer to hide the outlet to avoid accidents or short circuits.
If you plan to use the device in unguarded places, it is better to choose vandal-proof models.