Kenmore Elite 71552 Clothes Dryer

A stainless-steel drum is likely to resist damage better than plastic and painted metal drums.

A porcelain top resists scratching better than a painted one but generally adds to a dryer's cost. Painted tops, far more common, are often quite durable with normal use.

The rack attaches inside the drum to keep items such as sneakers or sweaters from tumbling.

This feature allows you to save your favorite settings.

Generally, a water hook-up is required with this feature. In this cycle, a small amount of water is sprayed into the drum while tumbling with heat. It helps to reduce wrinkles and odors, but is intended only for a few garments at a time.

Many dryers have moisture sensors that use electrical contacts in the drum to determine when laundry has reached the desired degree of dryness, whether that's damp-dry for ironing or ready to wear. Moisture sensors are more accurate than those using thermostats, sparing your laundry unnecessary drying and reducing your energy bills.

Some models allow you to turn off the buzzer or bell or adjust the volume.

This feature keeps the drum tumbling without heat after the drying cycle has ended, to prevent wrinkles from setting in. It's useful if you can't remove the clothes right after the cycle ends. It can be turned off in some models but not others.

WiFi is based on how easy it is to connect the unit to WiFi. Also if the unit can be controlled by an App.

Some models have doors that drop down in front; others have side-opening doors (generally reversible) that may make it easier to access the inside of the drum.

You can save space by placing the dryer on top of a suitable washer. Note that a special kit is sometimes required to mount the dryer on top of the washer.

The exterior measurements of the washer with the door or lid closed, in inches (height x width x depth). Be sure to allow a few extra inches of clearance in the rear for hoses and connections.

Manufacturer's stated warranty in years of coverage. In most cases it applies only to consumer use and not commercial use.

Based on how easy it is to read and set the controls.

Top-mounted filters are generally easier to reach and clean. Filters located inside the door are less convenient. Remember to check and clean the filter before every load.

Qualified by the U.S. government's Energy Star program for low power consumption.