The Kenmore Elite Steam HE5 87729 (electric)/ 97729 (gas) dryer gets a rave review from us for all it offers -- except its signature steam setting. We couldn't wait to try this steam dryer that does everything we've come to expect from the outstanding Kenmore HE5 series dryers.

The added benefit to the Elite Steam HE5 87729/97729 dryer is the inclusion of a steam setting, which is designed to refresh wrinkled items by heating them with a touch of steam. If you have some very wrinkled shirts, the steam setting will indeed refresh them a bit; but if you're looking for the steam setting to get your clothes to be completely wrinkle-free so you won't have to do any ironing, chances are you will be disappointed. The success or failure of this steam setting is really all in your perception of it and just how picky you are. Don't expect this setting to provide freshly ironed crispness to your garments; however, if you would like the flexibility to have your dryer perk up wrinkled clothes, then this dryer could be just the ticket for you.

When it comes to features, this huge, front-loading, 7.4-cubic-foot dryer offers almost all of them -- and it has a price to match. For $1300 to $1500 you get a dryer with an amazingly large capacity, cycles for everything, sensor monitoring and the ultimate in gentleness for delicates. There is also a tumbling cycle that automatically operates for 150 minutes after drying to prevent wrinkles from setting in the clothes. About the only things this dryer doesn't do is electronically communicate with its washer like a GE Harmony dryer does or offer a delay start.

The controls on this HE5 are easy to use and offer visual as well as auditory cues. Indicator lights let you know how your cycle is progressing and accurately predict when it will be completed. Six temperature settings and a drying rack make it possible to dry just about anything.

We like the installation options that the Elite Steam HE5 87729/97729 offers. You can stack it or place it on a pedestal. You can add a matching laundry-folding work surface or place a storage tower between it and your washer. It is really big, so regardless of how you intend to install it, make sure you measure your space carefully. The other thing you need to be prepared for is hooking it up to a cold water supply. Since dryers do not normally require this, some plumbing adjustments may be needed.

Look for this dryer at Sears in either white or Barolo (burgundy to most of us). Or save yourself $200 and purchase a HE5 dryer without steam if you think you won't be using this setting often. Be sure to comparison shop Kenmore's 87729/97729 with the similar Whirlpool Duet WED9600T/ WGD9600T dryer. These dryers are so much alike that we recommend you choose the brand that is most attractively priced.


Pros: Adds steam to an excellent dryer for refreshing wrinkled garments
Cons: Steam doesn't replace ironing -- just perks up garments, requires cold water hookup

Warranty
1 year