Tumble dryer condenser isnt condensing!

code-a-holic

I have an external condenser for my dryer. The times i have used it i have followed the instructions. 2 inches of cold water in it. Yet the room fills with steam. Why to condensers have vents?? It lets the air out - isnt the purpose to keep in in the little box.... I have held my hand over the vents and the hot air comes striaght out. Feels like a complete waste of money at the moment, can anyone recomend a good trick?!
I only use the tumble dryer 2 times a week if i have to so would prefer not to spend more money on it.

clairehi

Is it one of the plastic boxes that you put the td hose into?

I have one, and it doesnt work perfectly but we get by. I always leave the door into the hall open so any excess steam disperses in the house rather than removing the wallpaper in the utility room.

tbh if Im in the house and its not raining, I stick the end of the hose out the utility room door in preference to using the box.

clairehi

ps I wonder whether putting ice in the water would help?

code-a-holic

I had thought about the ice....no harm in trying. When i do use it i set it to go on during economy 7 hours. The 2nd night i left windows open and it did seem to help a bit.
At least its not just me and it happens!
It will help the electric bills, putting me off using it unless really necessary!