Although washer/dryer combination units have been popular in Europe for many years, these marvels of modern technology, which wash and dry clothes in a single unit, have only recently been introduced to the American market. Most people don't even know that this option exists, and that means it can be hard to know what you're looking for.
Types of Washer/Dryer Combinations
It couldn't be simpler: This single machine lets you throw a dirty load of laundry in and pull out a clean, dry load a couple of hours later. Combo units start at about $600 and end well over $2,000 – prices that can be significantly lower than purchasing comparable two-unit systems. Because they have internal water heaters, you only need a cold water hookup. Washer/dryer combinations come in two basic options, both of which have to do with how they dry clothes:
Vented. Like a typical dryer, vented washer dryer combos blow hot damp air directly outside. Choose this option if you can; it dries clothes much faster.
Non-vented. Also called condensation washer/dryers, these units dry clothes by channeling the hot, moist air from the dryer into an outer chamber, where moisture is condensed and flushed out through the drain hose. Non-vented systems can take much longer to dry clothes, but they are a good option for those who have limited venting options.
Key Features
Here's what to look for in a washer/dryer combination.
Size and capacity.Washer/dryer combination units tend to be smaller than traditional laundry sets, simply because they are designed to take up as little space as possible. Standard models come in two sizes: 24 inches or 27 inches, which translates to loads of anywhere between 11 to 22 pounds of clothing, depending on model and manufacturer. Keep in mind, however, that these numbers can be deceptive; the dryer can only dry about half a full wash load.
Voltage. Don't have a 220-volt plug in? No worries. Select washer/dryer combos can run on your standard 110-volt connection. Be aware, however, that lower voltage affects cycle times, particularly how long it takes to dry items using a non-vented model.
Portability.Many washer/dryer combos come with portability options, making them ideal for quarters without the space for a dedicated laundry area. Mounted on casters, you simply wheel the unit over to a sink or other water source and attach a special faucet adaptor. If this is the option you need, you'll want to opt for a non-vented mode.
Washer settings.Washer/dryer combos come with typical front load washing machine washer settings that range from sheer basics to fancy features like extra rinse cycles or specialized settings for different fabric types. As with washing machines, you'll want to evaluate your must-have features, because they come with hefty price tags. For more information on front-loading machines and their benefits and features, check out our washing machine guide.
How to Choose
First of all, determine whether a washer/dryer combination is the right choice. Although it's easy to be seduced by the technology – a two in one machine – you may be better off with a traditional washer and dryer set. If you need to cram washing paraphernalia in a utility closet or cramped space, consider a stackable front-loading washer and dryer set. Alternatively, you might want to check out laundry centers, which feature a top loading washing machine and dryer in a single vertical unit.
If, on the other hand, you need to get creative with laundry equipment, combos give you a lot of options. Don't have a dedicated washing area? A portable unit will save you from schlepping loads to the Laundromat. Need to put it in the kitchen? At about the same size as a dishwasher, you can get in-house laundry without hogging up a lot of space. Don't have an outside vent? The non-venting system is perfect. Once you evaluate your needs, your choices should become clear.
