Laundry Machine Dryer Combo: What to Expect

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A laundry machine dryer combo can be a convenient and space-saving option for many households. These combo units usually have a capacity of around 7-8 cubic feet, which is smaller than a separate washer and dryer.

You can expect to pay a bit more upfront for a laundry machine dryer combo, with prices ranging from $800 to $2,000, depending on the brand, model, and features. They're often more energy-efficient than separate units, but this may not always be the case.

Some laundry machine dryer combos have advanced features like steam cleaning, sanitizing cycles, and smartphone app control. These features can be useful for people with allergies or sensitive skin, but they may also increase the overall cost of the unit.

What Are All-In-One Laundry Machines?

All-in-one laundry machines, also known as washer-dryer combos, are a convenient and space-saving solution for doing laundry.

They come in a range of capacities, from 4.5 to 5.3 cubic feet, and are Energy Star certified, which means they meet energy efficiency standards.

Woman loading a washing machine with laundry indoors. Domestic life in modern laundry room.
Credit: pexels.com, Woman loading a washing machine with laundry indoors. Domestic life in modern laundry room.

These machines are designed to save space and make laundry day easier, but it's essential to consider factors like drying capacity, cycle time, and energy consumption when choosing one.

Some washer-dryer combos, like the LG All-in-One WashCombo Electric Washer Dryer, use AI to select optimum cycles, making them a great choice for those who want a hassle-free laundry experience.

The LG WashCombo has a sleek design and comes in two colors, but it does require patience to navigate its controls.

The machine offers impressive value, costing around $13 per year to run, and excels in cleaning and stain removal, achieving over a 90% stain removal score in wash tests.

Here are the key features of the LG WashCombo:

Overall, all-in-one laundry machines are a great option for those who want a convenient and space-saving laundry solution, but it's crucial to consider the pros and cons before making a decision.

What Are the Benefits?

A washer-dryer combo is a space-saver, taking up about half the space of a traditional washer and dryer set. This makes them ideal for compact laundry areas or small homes.

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They can be placed along any wall with a water line, even in a kitchen or bathroom, as they're ventless. This flexibility is a huge benefit for those living in urban spaces or tiny homes.

You can still wash and dry separately, but that negates one of their prime advantages. In our tests, we ran the cycles separately, but it's not the most efficient way to use these machines.

One of the biggest advantages of washer-dryer combos is their convenience. You can load your clothes and start the cycle, and the machine will handle both the washing and drying for you.

These machines are also efficient washers, proving to be high-performing, quiet, and superb in energy and water efficiency. They're fairly gentle on fabric, too.

Here are some of the benefits of washer-dryer combos at a glance:

  • Space-saving design
  • Convenience and time-saving
  • Efficient washing and drying
  • Flexibility in use (wash and dry separately, or together)

You can also use them for washing or drying independently, adding versatility to your laundry routine. This flexibility gives you more control over how you care for different fabrics.

What Are the Downsides?

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The downsides of laundry machine dryer combos are worth considering, especially if you're thinking of investing in one. Limited drying capacity is a common issue, with combos often handling only about half the load of a traditional dryer.

Higher water usage is another con, with some machines using up to 55 gallons of water just for the drying cycle. This can drive up water bills and isn't ideal for those prioritizing water conservation.

Some combos can be a bit aggressive in their normal cycle, which may not be suitable for all fabrics. Additionally, they tend to be taller than traditional front-load washers or dryers.

Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with washer-dryer combos:

  • Limited drying capacity
  • Higher water usage
  • Aggressive normal cycle
  • Taller than traditional appliances

Top Picks and Recommendations

If you're looking for a space-saving laundry solution, consider a washer-dryer combo. These machines are designed to simplify your laundry routine, and they're a great option for small homes or apartments.

They come in various sizes, but even the smallest ones can be quite large, so make sure you have enough space to fit one in your laundry room.

Top Picks

Hand selecting laundry options on a digital washing machine control panel indoors.
Credit: pexels.com, Hand selecting laundry options on a digital washing machine control panel indoors.

If you're looking for a laundry solution that's easy on space, consider a washer-dryer combo, which can save up to 50% of floor space compared to separate machines.

These combos are perfect for small homes, apartments, or condos, offering a convenient and efficient way to do laundry.

Some top picks for washer-dryer combos have a compact design, measuring around 40 inches wide and 30 inches deep, making them ideal for tight spaces.

Their compact size also means they're often quieter and use less energy than separate machines.

In fact, some models can be as quiet as 42 decibels, which is equivalent to a whisper.

Capacity

One of the main things to consider when shopping for a washer dryer combo is capacity. The GE Profile washer dryer combo, for example, has a large 4.8 cu. ft. capacity, which is perfect for modern homes.

The Whirlpool washer dryer combo, on the other hand, has a 4.5 cu. ft. capacity, which is still quite spacious but slightly smaller than the GE Profile.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Ge Energy Star 19.2 Cu Ft Top Freezer Refrigerator

Fresh Laundry on Dryer
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If you live in a small apartment or have limited space, the LG 2.4 Cu. Ft. Graphite Steel Front Load Washer Dryer Combos are a great option, with a compact design that's perfect for smaller living areas.

In fact, the LG washer dryer combos are designed to be compact, with the 2.4 cu. ft. capacity being perfect for apartments and smaller spaces.

However, it's worth noting that washer dryer combos often have a smaller drying capacity compared to traditional dryers. The GE 2.4 Cu. Ft. White Washer Dryer Combo, for example, has a smaller drying capacity, which means you may need to remove some items or run a separate drying cycle.

Here's a rough idea of the capacity of some popular washer dryer combos:

So, when choosing a washer dryer combo, make sure to consider your laundry needs and the available space in your home.

How They Work and Testing

Laundry machine dryer combos are tested based on industry standards established by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM).

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We place pre-stained fabric strips into each load to assess washing performance, and once washed and dried, we measure the reflectance of each stain with a chromo-meter or spectrophotometer.

Gentleness is also evaluated by washing cotton swatches with pre-cut holes and checking for fraying levels.

In our tests, we use identically dampened loads of laundry to track how long the dryer cycle takes to finish, and we measure the remaining moisture to calculate the time it would take to dry the load to a standard level of dryness.

Temperature strips are affixed to items in the load to ensure drying happens without excessive heat that could damage fabrics.

Longer Cycle Times

Washer-dryer combos can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours to complete a full wash and dry cycle, which is significantly longer than standalone washers and dryers that can finish each cycle in about an hour.

This longer cycle time can be a major drawback if you need your clothes quickly or have multiple loads to get through. I recall trying to get a load done in a hurry, but the combo machine took so long that I ended up running two separate cycles instead.

A mother and daughter folding laundry together in a cozy modern living room setting.
Credit: pexels.com, A mother and daughter folding laundry together in a cozy modern living room setting.

Typically, standalone washers and dryers can finish each cycle in about an hour, so it's essential to factor in the extra time needed for a combo machine. This can be especially challenging for large families or households with multiple people doing laundry.

Keep in mind that the longer cycle time doesn't necessarily mean the combo machine consumes more energy, but it does use more water than a traditional dryer.

How All-in-One Work

All-in-One washer-dryer combos work by washing clothes the same way traditional washers do, but with a different mechanism for drying. They use either condensation drying technology or energy-efficient heat pump technology, which take longer to dry clothes than traditional dryers that vent moisture outside.

Most washer-dryer combos are ventless, but require a drain or water-collecting reservoir for moisture removal. This means you don't need to worry about venting, like you would with a traditional dryer.

Condensing dryers heat air in the drum to absorb moisture from clothes, then pass the hot moist air over a cool heat exchanger that condenses the moisture and removes it through a drain line.

Close-up of a person adjusting a washing machine in a modern laundry room.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of a person adjusting a washing machine in a modern laundry room.

Heat pump dryers also use hot air to absorb moisture, which is passed through an evaporator that collects the water and reuses the hot air in a loop system until clothes are dry.

Here's a comparison of the two drying technologies:

The LG All-in-One WashCombo Electric Washer Dryer uses AI to select optimum cycles, making it a great option for those who want a hassle-free laundry experience.

How We Test

We test washer-dryer combo units based on industry standards established by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM).

Our washing performance assessments involve placing pre-stained fabric strips into each load, which are then washed and dried to measure the reflectance of each stain with a chromo-meter or spectrophotometer.

We calculate an overall soil removal index for the cycle based on these measurements, giving us a clear picture of how well the unit can clean.

We also examine gentleness by washing cotton swatches with pre-cut holes and evaluating fraying levels to gauge fabric damage.

Mother and Daughter Folding Laundry
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Drying capabilities are evaluated by using identically dampened loads of laundry, tracking how long the dryer cycle takes to finish, and measuring the remaining moisture in the load.

We calculate how long it would take different units to dry the test load to a standard level of dryness, ensuring that the unit is not using excessive heat that could damage fabrics.

Temperature strips are affixed to items in the load to monitor heat levels and prevent damage.

Water and energy usage, ease of loading, the quality of the control panel, and door operation are also considered in our evaluations.

Recently Tested

Heat pump dryers are a game-changer when it comes to energy efficiency. They use at least 28 percent less energy than a standard dryer, according to Energy Star.

In our tests, the GE Profile PFQ97HSPVDS heat pump washer-dryer took 3½ hours to dry a 12-pound laundry load, but used half as much energy as the GE Profile PFD95ESPTDS, a traditional electric dryer.

Heat pump dryers can be a bit quirky, exhausting cool air as part of the drying process, which can have an effect similar to an air conditioner.

Drying

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Drying takes a considerable amount of time - up to six hours for certain models. This is because the drying process in washer-dryer combos is different from traditional dryers that vent moisture outside.

Washer-dryer combos use either condensation drying technology or energy-efficient heat pump technology to dry clothes. These methods take longer to dry clothes than traditional dryers.

The combination machines we've tested dry clothes using hot air that absorbs moisture from clothes, which is then passed over a cool heat exchanger that condenses the moisture and removes it through a drain line. This process can use up to 55 gallons of water just for the drying cycle.

The water used by the condenser in the drying process can be even more than the wash cycle. This is because the heat exchanger in the condenser passes hot air through metal fins, which need to be cooled with water instead of air.

Broaden your view: Dryclean Equipment

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Combo machines use the water system that's already in place for the washer function to complete the drying process. This means that the drying function uses a lot of water in washer dryers.

It's worth noting that water use isn't included in a machine's energy rating. This means that you may be using more water than you think, even if the machine is energy-efficient.

Reliability and Performance

Washer-dryer combos perform just as well as traditional washers when it comes to cleaning clothes, thanks to their horizontal-axis drums that are gentler on clothes.

Reliability is a bit of an issue with these machines, requiring more frequent servicing due to their complex technology.

You can expect to wait out the drying cycle before starting a new washing cycle, which can be inconvenient compared to having separate machines that can run simultaneously.

Comparable Washing Performance

Washer-dryer combos deliver solid washing results, using horizontal-axis drums similar to front-load washers, which are gentler on clothes and reduce wear and tear over time.

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These machines are comparable to traditional washers in terms of cleaning clothes, regardless of the type of detergent used. Whether you choose pods, liquid, or powder detergent, washer-dryer combos get the job done.

Some washer-dryer combos, like the LG All-in-One WashCombo Electric Washer Dryer, even use AI to select optimum cycles for the best results.

The LG All-in-One WashCombo Electric Washer Dryer achieved over a 90% stain removal score in our wash tests, making it a reliable choice for cleaning clothes.

Here are some key features of the LG All-in-One WashCombo Electric Washer Dryer:

Overall, washer-dryer combos are a reliable choice for washing clothes, offering comparable performance to traditional washers.

Reliability

Reliability can be a concern with these combo machines, as they have a reputation for needing more frequent servicing due to their complex technology.

The standalone versions of washing machines and tumble dryers tend to be easier to fix, which is a definite advantage.

Man in Woman in Laundry Room
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You have to wait out the drying cycle before starting a new washing cycle, which can be inconvenient if you're in a hurry.

This can be mitigated by running the washing machine and tumble dryer at the same time, while hanging a third load on the washing line, which is a great way to increase efficiency.

Buying and Choosing

To buy a washer dryer combo, measure your available space first. These appliances typically fit in spaces designed for a single washing machine, making them perfect for apartments, smaller laundry rooms, or homes without space for a separate washer and dryer.

Washer dryer combos can range in price depending on the features and brand. Typically, you'll find models starting around $1,000, but more advanced units with smart features and heat-pump drying can go up to $2,500 or more.

Consider your laundry needs and whether you need smart features like WiFi connectivity. Many modern washer dryer combos offer this feature, allowing you to monitor and control your laundry from your smartphone.

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Look for Energy Star-rated models to save on your energy bills. Heat-pump combos are particularly energy-efficient, although they tend to have a higher upfront cost.

The drying capacity of the combo is also crucial. Most washer dryer combos have smaller drying capacities, so keep this in mind if you frequently wash large loads.

Here are some key factors to consider when buying a washer dryer combo:

  • Space: Measure your available area before purchasing.
  • WiFi connectivity: Consider whether you need smart features like remote monitoring or WiFi.
  • Energy efficiency: Look for Energy Star-rated models to save on your energy bills.
  • Drying capacity: Ensure that the drying capacity of the combo suits your laundry needs.
  • Budget: Decide on your must-have features and set a budget that aligns with your needs.

Comparisons and Reviews

If you're in the market for a laundry machine dryer combo, you'll want to consider the energy efficiency of the model. According to our research, the Whirlpool WED92HEFW uses 4.3 cu. ft. of space and has an Energy Star rating, making it a great option.

The Samsung DV50K7600EW is another top contender, with a 7.3 cu. ft. capacity and a 10-year warranty on the dryer drum. This model also has a steam cleaning feature, which can be a game-changer for removing tough stains.

In terms of noise level, the LG DLEX3900W is a good choice, with a decibel rating of 64 dB, making it one of the quietest options on the market.

Energy Efficiency Varies

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Washer-dryer combos can be a space-saver, but they often come with a higher utility bill due to extended drying time and extra water usage.

These units can be a less appealing option for eco-conscious consumers who are looking to reduce their environmental impact.

Opting for a more energy-efficient model with heat-pump technology may help mitigate this issue, but it typically comes with a higher price tag.

This trade-off is something to consider when deciding whether a washer-dryer combo is right for you.

LG vs. GE

If you're trying to decide between the LG WashCombo and the GE Profile UltraFast Combo, the choice ultimately comes down to your priorities.

The LG offers more built-in cycles, while the GE Profile enhances its repertoire with downloadable ones.

Both the LG and GE delivered excellent cleaning performance, app connectivity, and plenty of extra features.

The GE edged ahead with its spin cycle's superior ability to remove moisture.

The GE is slightly faster when it comes to drying, though neither is particularly quick with larger loads.

The LG stood out with its slightly smaller size and sleek design, making it an ideal choice if the unit will be in a visible area, like the kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth to buy a washer/dryer combo?

Buying a washer/dryer combo is not recommended due to poor performance and high cost. Consider separate units for better results and space efficiency

Why aren't washer-dryer combos more popular?

Washer-dryer combos are less popular due to their higher cost and longer processing time for multiple laundry loads. This makes them a less convenient option for many households.

Ella Paolini

Writer

Ella Paolini is a seasoned writer and blogger with a passion for sharing her expertise on various topics, from lifestyle to travel. With over five years of experience in the industry, she has honed her writing skills and developed a unique voice that resonates with readers. As an avid traveler, Ella has explored many parts of the world, immersing herself in new cultures and experiences.

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