The Pros and Cons of a Washer and Dryer Combo

Washer dryer combos are a popular option for homeowners who want to cut down on space and time. Available at Abt, these compact dryers are easy to use and gentle on your clothing and fabrics.

They're ideal for apartments, condos and smaller homes. But are they as good as standalone washers and dryer sets?

Compact

If you frequent the laundromat or reside in a condo, apartment, or small house, you may have thought of having your own washer and dryer. However, laundry appliances take up a lot of floor space and are expensive to buy and install. Compact dryer and washer combos let you do your own laundry on a smaller space.

A washer/dryer combination combines a front-load washer and vented drying unit into one unit. They use the same amount of power and water as standard washers/dryers however they are smaller. Washer/dryer combinations come in a variety of designs, such as stacked and standalone units, however, they all have a front-load washer layouts instead of a top-load washer layout.

When you're looking for a small laundry dryer and washer make sure you choose models with a high maximum spin speed that will extract more water than the average washer. This speeds up drying time, allowing you to get your laundry done quicker. A faster spin speed can also cause more noise and vibration. Many of our top-rated models come with a maximum spin speed of 1,100 or higher rpm.

Find an energy-efficient, Green Choice model that scores high in CR's laundry tests for efficiency in electricity and water use. You'll save money on your utility bills and also help protect the environment.

Stackable washer/dryer combinations are ideal to save floor space, especially in cramped laundry areas. These machines are usually made of sturdy materials that can withstand a large loads. Some models offer special features like automatic detergent dispensers or Wi-Fi capability to operate from a remote. These options can increase the price, but they may be worth it if you plan to use the washer/dryer a lot.

For a more efficient drying experience, look for a dryer that has a high ENERGY STAR rating. This will lower your energy costs and carbon footprint. Some dryers come with a low temperature setting to keep delicate fabrics safe and soft. Certain dryers have butterflies to reduce wrinkles and creases while still allowing air to circulate.

Energy-efficient

Combinations of washer and dryer can reduce space by combining the washer and dryer into one appliance. This is a great choice for those who don't have enough space in their home or apartment to accommodate two separate appliances. They consume less energy, too.

In addition, a dryer/washer combo uses less detergent and water than a regular top-loading washer. It uses less energy than dryers and is therefore more eco-friendly. Many ENERGY STAR models feature an intelligent technology that automatically optimizes the washing cycle to save time and money. It also has dispensers for fabric softener and detergent to ensure that these products are used in precisely quantities, thereby reducing energy consumption. The dryer's spin cycle helps to save energy by sucking any excess water from your clothes, which means that it will take less time for them to dry. Certain dryers and washers have a quick cycle that can finish your laundry within 24 minutes.

Another advantage of a washer/dryer combination is that it doesn't need a vent. This means that you can put it in any place with a hot and cold water hookup as well an electrical outlet. This is especially beneficial for small spaces such as apartments, condos and mudrooms. They tend to be more expensive than standalone dryers and washers.

However, this is offset by the fact that you're paying for two appliances in one unit. Most combos have a smaller drying capacity than standalone dryers. This is because they are designed to be a compact space appliance and don't have the additional capacity that standalone dryers washer with greater capacity have.

Another disadvantage of dryer/washer combos is that they usually have a lower fill-weight than standalone washers. This can affect the amount you can wash in a load. It may also result in longer drying times. However, these machines have a high maximum spin speed that makes them a great choice for small loads. The front-loading design of these combos is gentler on your clothes and helps prevent wear.

Multi-faceted

Washer dryer combos are multi-functional laundry appliances that have the same features as standalone tumble dryers and washers. You'll have to pick the one that is best suited to your needs based on capacity, size and other features. Here are a few pros and cons to help choose the right type of machine:

The most versatile washer/dryer combination units provide a variety of drying options that suit different types of fabrics. They can also save your preferred settings for washing and drying and reactivate it with a push of a switch. This makes them a convenient option for those with limited space or time. Some all-in one machines have a sanitary mode that reduces the chance of acquiring germs or bacteria contaminating your clothing.

Sensors are utilized in washer and dryer units to monitor water levels, suds, temperature and dryness of the garment. This allows them to optimize the drying and washing process. These sensors can alter the draining system cycle settings, cycle settings, and spin speed according to the conditions. They also can help reduce energy consumption by adjusting the cycle to the most efficient setting for the current load.

Most washers and dryers that have all-in-one functions will wash and drain your clothes automatically once the washing process has been completed. The spin process will begin to rid the clothes of excess water and prepare your clothes for drying. This is the last stage of the laundry process and typically takes between two and four hours.

Depending on the way you wash and dry your clothes, you can choose a combination that has a high maximum spin speed. These units spin your clothes more quickly to reduce wrinkles, and complete your laundry faster. They are also ideal for those with mobility issues as they do away with the need to move your laundry between appliances. Sort your laundry according to type to maximize the effectiveness of your washer/dryer. Beware of overloading your machine. It is also important to conduct regular maintenance and troubleshooting to ensure the best performance. By following these tips you can make your washer/dryer combo unit last longer and operate more efficiently.

Convenient

Washer dryer combos cram both washer and clothes dryer into a single appliance, which could revolutionize your routine of washing clothes. They have all the features modes, programs and modes of top-quality standalone appliances within the form of a half-sized appliance. This is especially useful in smaller spaces where it's hard to set up separate washers and dryers.

Combo units are also simple to use because you can toss loads of laundry in and put it away until your clothes are drying. Some models even have delay timers so that you can let it run before you go to work and be assured that your clothes will be waiting for you when you arrive home.

Washer dryer combos, besides being convenient, are also more efficient than standalone dryers and washers since they use less electricity as well as water and detergent. They are also cheaper than two separate appliances and they are less space-consuming because they do not require a laundry room.

The drawback to washer dryer combinations is their small capacity which restricts the size of your laundry loads. It may not be an issue for the majority of households however, if you have a large family the combination of washer and dryer might not be the best option for you.

Combination appliances are also more complex than standalone dryers or washers, which increases their risk of failure. As a result, they can cost more to maintain and repair.

LG's all-in-one washer dryers feature the latest technology and a sleek style that makes them a great choice for your laundry room. Select from models that have different features, speeds and load capacities to meet your requirements. Each washer dryer combo includes LG's SenseClean system that automatically adjusts the water levels and wash times, a Sanitary Cycle to sanitize and get rid of stubborn stains and many more. LG combo units can also be controlled remotely via an app on mobile devices, such as the LG ThinQ App. They work with smart devices in the home. You can control and begin your wash cycles through the app and receive alerts when your laundry is done.