Different types of washer/dryer combi
When you want to buy a washer/dryer combi, you should first think about the type of model that you are interested in. Each washer/dryer combi has its own particular aspect that it excels at.
Energy efficient washer/dryers
Washerdryers in general are known for not being very energy efficient. The combination of the functions of a washing machine and a dryer means that the energy consumption of the appliance is significantly higher than for the individual appliances.
This idea has long been superseded and there are plenty of energy-efficient washer-dryers. For example, an energy-efficient model will weigh your laundry and adjust its water and energy consumption accordingly. Note that washer-dryers always have two energy labels, one for wash and dry and one for wash only.
It is also possible to choose a washer-dryer with a heat pump, which uses about 40% less energy. However, you should be aware that these models also come at a significantly higher price.
Quiet washer/dryers
The noise level in decibels is indicated on each washer/dryer. Quiet washer dryers have a noise level between 71 db and 73 db. With these models, you can be sure that you will be able to place the machine next to your bedroom without being affected by its noise.
Please note that the decibel rating always represents the loudest sound that the washer-dryer will produce during the spin cycle, so its noise level during washing will be even lower.
If the noise level of the washer-dryer is above 78 db? You can assume that it makes a lot of noise during the spin cycle and that it would be better to put it in an enclosed space.
Compact washer/dryers
Many people choose a washer/dryer combination because they don’t have enough space for a washer and dryer. The advantage of these models is that they can fit into small spaces, such as the hallway or bathroom.
Please note that there is less laundry to fit in the drum than with non-compact washer-dryers. On average you can wash and dry between 4kg and 6kg of laundry. A non-compact washer-dryer has an average load of 8 kg, which is considerably more.
When you are on your own, a load weight of between 4 kg and 6 kg is more than enough, but in a larger household you will need between 7 kg and 9 kg.
The best tested washing and drying machines
The range of washing and drying machines is vast and it can be hard to know what to choose. There are many features to compare and to make things easier we have already tested a number of washer-dryers for you.
What to look out for when buying a washer/dryer combination?
What makes the best washer/dryer combination for you depends on your personal preferences and needs. It’s not always easy to figure out exactly what to look for, so we’ve listed the most important features for you.
Wash and dry maximum fill weight
The fill weight of a washer-dryer indicates how much laundry you can get clean and dry in one turn. For a one-person household, a 5kg/6kg load is more than enough, but for a family of two adults and two children, you’ll soon need 8kg/9kg of washing. Do you do a lot of laundry, e.g. because you work out? Then take the safe route and go for a washer-dryer with a 10kg load.
Please note that the load capacity for washing is always greater than for drying. For example, a washer-dryer with a maximum wash weight of 8kg may have a maximum dry weight of 6kg. This means that you will have to dry some of your laundry in a different way or that you will have to run the washer-dryer again.
Wash and dry energy consumption
If you decide to go for a washer-dryer instead of a washing machine and a dryer, you should look at the energy costs. In some cases, a washer-dryer can use more energy than a separate washer and dryer.
The difference can be as much as a few hundred dollars per year, so it’s worth checking out.
The number of wash and dry programs
What programs your washer-dryer needs depends on what you want to wash. If you have a lot of laundry that requires a special program, such as wool, it’s important to consider this before buying.
When it comes to drying, the number of programs is often indicated as closet dry, iron dry and extra dry. More specialised models also have an adjustable drying temperature, ensuring that your laundry is always dried correctly.
RPM
Most washer-dryers have a 1400 rpm speed, which indicates how many times the drum spins per minute. The higher the number of rotations per minute, the drier your laundry will get. There are washer-dryers that spin at 1600 rpm, but that can often only be used for programmes where you wash cotton. For most types of laundry, 1400 rpm will be more than sufficient.
Extra Features
Some washer-dryers have a load sensor that weighs how much laundry you put in the drum. The sensor then calculates how much water is needed to get everything clean. Some brands have their own features, such as LG’s energy-efficient direct drive, which uses less energy to dry your laundry. Bosch has a steam drying programme that can get your clothes out of the dryer with virtually no ironing.
Frequently Asked Questions
The washing machine and dryer is not very well known to the general public, so there are still many questions that not everyone knows the answers to. In the following pages we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about washer-dryers.
A washer-dryer combi or a washer and dryer?
The advantage of a washer-dryer combi is that you can save a lot of space. Instead of having to fit two appliances, you only need space for one.
On the other hand, a washer/dryer combo often has a lower fill weight, especially when drying, which means you can get rid of less laundry at once. If you have a lot of laundry, that’s not always practical.
Additionally, not all washer-dryers are energy efficient. In most cases, a washer and dryer in one will use more energy than two separate appliances. This is because the separate appliances are better developed and have a better energy label.
What features does a washer-dryer combo have?
In principle, a washer-dryer combo can do everything you can do with a washer and dryer. Some models are equipped with a non stop program where washing and drying follow each other without interruption. A non-stop program is very useful if you don’t have time to change the program in between. You can easily leave it running overnight without looking at it.
Do note that the non-stop programme often only works if you want to wash and dry a small amount of laundry weighing 5kg/6kg at the most. With heavier loads of 8kg/9kg, you may need to remove some of your laundry from the drum before the machine can start drying.
Is drying your laundry bad for your clothes?
If you buy a good quality washer/dryer combination, it may not be bad for your clothes. Before drying always read carefully what is written on the care label of your clothes. For example, some garments can only be dried at a low temperature or only for a short time.