Are washer dryer combos a good choice? Here are the pros
Washer dryer can save more space
What mainly attracts homeowners to a washer dryer is its space-saving capabilities. It merges two appliances into one, making it suitable for people residing in flats or anyone who doesn’t have a dedicated laundry room. Install it in your bathroom, under your kitchen counter, or even in a shaded area in your balcony.
Washer dryer combo is budget-friendly
Buying a washer dryer is like buying two appliances for the price of one. Its running costs, on the other hand, may cost you more since its dryer function consumes more energy. However, if you’re a small household, you may still be able to save.
Having fewer clothes to wash means you can lessen dryer use to only once or twice a week. And why use it every time? During summer, or if you live in a place with a warm climate, you can forgo using the dryer altogether. Mainly use the washer dryer for washing, and only use the dryer when needed.
Convenient laundry — from start to finish
Some washer dryer models can wash your clothes then automatically dry them. If you don’t have many clothes to wash, simply press ‘Start’, do your other tasks, then return to freshly dried clothes and linens. No more hauling wet clothes out of the washer.
No compromise on washing
Choosing a two-in-one does not mean you sacrifice washing performance. A washer dryer can clean your clothes just as well as a standalone washing machine. AEG models are equipped with advanced technologies to make laundry easier and better.
Features like ÖKOSense Technology help maintain your clothes’ colour and texture by automatically optimising wash time, energy, and water, and ÖKOmix Technology thoroughly mixes detergents and softeners with water so no visible residue remains on fabrics.
Washer Dryer: Cons
Long drying time
Compared to tumble dryers, washer dryers are slower in drying. They are typically equipped with a condenser dryer, which recycles moisture in your clothes to form heat, requiring more drying time, especially for beddings and towels. If your washer dryer dries garments with the same amount of time as your clothesline, it may be better to air-dry them instead.
Less dryer capacity
You may have to dry in batches after washing a full load. This is because a washer dryer has a smaller drying capacity compared to its washing capacity. More drum space is required to let air freely flow and reach all parts of your clothes. Even if it can wash a week’s worth of laundry in one cycle, it cannot do the same for drying.
Consumes more energy
In addition to its long drying time, the heating element of a washer dryer requires a lot of energy to power. A solution to this is to minimise the use of its dryer function or, if within your budget, use one with a heat pump dryer that can significantly reduce energy costs.
Another workaround is to choose a washer dryer with energy-saving technology. Some AEG models with ÖKOInverter motor ensure superior performance and durability, whilst operating on less energy.
Read more on our Washer dryer buying guide here.
A separate washer and dryer: Pros
Faster drying
A tumble dryer is typically equipped with better dryer technology so you can finish laundry quicker. Some have a vented dryer that simply pumps hot air straight into your drum. Zip through your laundry to-do’s with ease, and avoid drying times that can take as long as line drying — because isn’t that what a dryer is supposed to do?
Efficient washing and drying
No need to dry in batches. A standalone dryer has a larger drum than a washer dryer, enabling it to dry bulk loads in one go.
Large households or busy caretakers who do laundry frequently can also simultaneously wash and dry for more efficient multi-tasking, confidently conquering mountains of laundry everyday.
Energy efficient
While it can be more expensive to buy two separate appliances, a tumble dryer uses less energy than its combo counterpart. This lets frequent dryer users save on running costs and have bigger returns on their investment.
Choose AEG models with heat pump technology which significantly reduces energy consumption whilst gently drying your clothes. Preserve the quality of your clothes, at less cost.
A separate washer and dryer: Cons
More upfront cost
Two appliances will generally cost more than one, but sometimes, the price of a washer and dryer combined is almost close to that of a washer dryer — or even cheaper. Consider your budget. How much can you shell out for the appliance, water, and energy? Best to plan your purchase to coincide with seasonal sales.
Needs more space
If you have a large home, this should not be a problem. Otherwise, consider a stackable washer and drying pairing, provided that your room has enough height. This lets you install the two inside your utility cabinet or in a hidden nook. To reduce bulk, you can place them in a housing that sits flush with your cabinetry for a cleaner look.
Interrupted tasks
It can be a hassle to cut your other tasks short because of laundry. Unloading wet clothes from the washer for drying can distract you from more important things. For busy professionals and caretakers, it’s advisable to set a timer or to schedule your laundry after work or errands.
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Make an informed decision
Are washer-dryer combos worth it? Is a tumble dryer good for clothes? It all depends. Small households in flats will find a space-saving washer-dryer combo convenient, while big families can benefit more from an energy-efficient tumble dryer.
Both appliances have their advantages and disadvantages. Go through every consideration possible to decide on a washer-dryer combo or a separate washer and dryer, like our buying guides here can help you choose the most suitable appliances. Like clothes, your dryer choice should be the best fit for you.