Washer/Dryer Combos

A washer-dryer combo is a washer and dryer combined in a single "washer-sized" unit, containing a front-loading washer as well as a condenser dryer. In addition to the benefit of a smaller footprint, an all-in-one washer dryer allows you to wash and dry with one command: you can put your unwashed clothes in the machine before you go to work and return home to fully washed and dried clothes. Of course, you can also use it as just a washer or as just a dryer. Generally, a washer dryer combo will have a smaller capacity than conventional washers and dryers, and a full wash/dry cycle might take slightly longer, but you may find the convenience of a one-step washing/drying process outweighs any potential drawbacks.

A compact washer dryer combo is great for those who reside in a space-challenged home, apartment, condo or cabin, or in any living situation where every inch counts. Plus, a combo machine may suit you if you normally line-dry your clothes, but still want a dryer to quickly dry extra towels for company, or complete a last-minute load of laundry before going on vacation. You might also want a clothes steamer to remove wrinkles, especially if you regularly launder many home textiles, like curtains, drapes and tablecloths.

A combination washer dryer is an all-in-one laundry solution that both washes and dries clothing within the same unit. It is not a stackable washer or dryer. A unit like this is convenient to do light loads of laundry for 1 to 2 people with on-the-go lifestyles, and placement in environments where space is limited.

There are two types of combination washer dryers: vented and non-vented (or ventless, as it is often referred to). A vented unit requires setting up a place for the unit to vent out the hot air (typically through a wall or a window). This does not allow for easy mobility of the unit and may require ductwork. However, these units also tend to dry loads more quickly than non-vented combination washer dryers.

A non-vented (or ventless) unit does not require venting because it employs a two-compartment system. A two-compartment system allows the unit to move hot air from the main drum, where your load is located, to a second chamber where the process of condensation is used to cool the air and condense the water vapor out of it and the clothing contained within. The water is then flushed out the drain hose to a sink or plumbing lines, dependent upon your setup. Because no venting is required, this unit may be easily installed under a cabinet, in a closet or virtually anywhere else, as long as water and electricity are available. However, please keep in mind that a combo unit’s ability to properly dry your clothing is dependent upon the temperature of the water feeding the unit, and all units will need access to cold water to ensure drying occurs as designed.

WHICH WASHER/DRYER COMBO IS BETTER?

Stacked washer/dryer combos and all-in-one combos are both great appliances, and the “better” appliance is ultimately the one that meets your specific style preferences and needs.

Stacked washer/dryer combos are more traditional appliances, and often feature an array of basic functions and exceptional ease of use. These units may not be the most stylish, but they offer all the functions you need in a space-saving design that simplifies the laundry process.

All-in-one washer/dryer combos also help save space, but feature more advanced and innovative technology that places all your required laundry functions in one appliance. These machines are truly luxury units, offering all the style and advanced functions you would expect from a premium appliance. Those features may come at a high price point, but that price is often more than worth it.