InfoHub: Laundry
2 in 1 Washer Dryers: Should You Get One?
Washer and dryer combos offer a convenient solution for those dealing with a limited laundry space. They can make a great option for condos and apartments or for anyone who decides to install their washer and dryer in a closet.
This article will guide you through the important things to know about Washer and dryer combos, also called all-in-one washer and dryer combinations, including how they work, their benefits, what features you may want to consider and more.
What Is a Washer Dryer Combo?
Washer dryer combos are a single unit appliance that function as both a washer and a dryer. They have a smaller capacity than most conventional individual washers and dryers, usually between 1.5-5 cubic feet of interior space.
To compare:
The average capacity size of a full-size front load washer is 5 to 5.8 cubic feet.
The average capacity size of a dryer is 7 to 7.4 cubic feet.
A full wash/dry cycle may take longer than it would with separate washer and dryer units, averaging anywhere from 3 hours to 8-10 hours.
Cycle times depend on the following:
1) The items you are washing
2) The selected cycles
3) The dryness level selected
4) Load size
Give thought to your household’s laundry needs with respect to space, number of people and laundry frequency. This will help you determine if a washer dryer combo makes sense for you.
How does a washer and dryer combo work?
All in one washer dryers are typically ventless.
Here is how they work:
1) Hot air is recycled and then a heater and fan are used to move the hot air through the drum.
2) Moisture evaporates from clothes and condenses on the tub.
3) This water drains to the bottom and gets pumped out.
Another thing to note is that installation only requires a power supply, water hookup and drain.
The benefits of a washer and dryer combo?
The benefits to owning an all in one washer dryer depend on the brand and model you purchase. They include:
Space Saving
Well suited for condos, apartments or tight spaces like bathrooms or closets. Flexible as they are usually ventless and do not require an outside/external venting connection to work.
Design
Features a compact design. Can be used with a laundry pedestal for extra height and additional storage.
Efficiency
You can do laundry in less steps compared to using a separate washer and dryer. No transferring clothes from the washer to the dryer. Cycles can be run overnight.
Washer dryer combos let you enjoy additional flexibility as they can be installed virtually anywhere.
AVAILABLE FEATURES
Determine which features can help you tackle all your laundry needs, from the everyday ones to those that pose more challenges.
Multiple wash and dry cycles
such as sanitize cycles, leverage extra-hot drying temperatures or water temperatures to get rid of a high percentage of common household bacteria.
Wrinkle prevention cycles
periodically tumble the load at the end of the dry cycle (without adding more heat). This keeps wrinkles from setting.
Automatic detergent
and fabric softener dispensing can be a real time saver. It calculates how much detergent is needed so you know the right amount to use.
Steam Cycles
Load sensors
give your machine the ability to sense the size of the load and determine which are the right settings to proceed with.
Smart features
enable you to connect your machine through your smart devices like phones and tablets. You can monitor the stage of the cycle even when you’re away from home.
If you are looking to buy new laundry appliances but are dealing with limited space or are considering converting a closet into a laundry room, then a washer dryer combo may make the most sense for your household.
Maytag does not offer an all in one washer/dryer.
Learn more about Maytag Laundry Appliances.
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