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TLDR
All-in-one washer dryers can work well for small households that don’t have much laundry. They provide the convenience of washing and drying in one machine. However, they have smaller capacity than separate units, take longer to dry, and clothes may come out more wrinkled. Overall performance depends on the specific model.
What is an all-in-one washer dryer?
An all-in-one washer dryer combines washing and drying into one machine. It has a single drum that serves as both the washer and dryer.
These types of machines are also sometimes called combo washer dryers or laundry centers. They are an alternative to having separate washing machines and dryers.
Pros of all-in-one washer dryers
Saves space
The main advantage of an all-in-one washer dryer is that it takes up less space. Having separate washing and drying machines side by side requires more floor space. The all-in-one washer dryer has a smaller footprint since everything is in one unit.
This makes them ideal for apartments, condos, RVs, and other small living spaces where space is limited. The compact size allows them to fit in closets, bathrooms, or other tight spots a regular washer and dryer set wouldn’t fit.
Convenience
With a combo washer dryer, you can wash and dry loads continuously in the same machine. You don’t have to move wet clothes from the washer to the dryer. This saves time and effort.
It’s also convenient if you need to do a small load quickly. You can wash and dry a single load of laundry without having to run separate wash and dry cycles.
Lower cost
Purchasing one all-in-one machine is typically less expensive than buying full-sized separate washer and dryer units. Initial costs are lower.
Operating costs may also be reduced since you’re powering one appliance rather than two. However, drying cycles do use significant electricity, so this depends on individual usage.
Venting flexibility
Many combo washer dryers are ventless and condense moisture to avoid external venting. This gives you more flexibility on installation locations, since you don’t need access to an external vent.
Ventless models use a condenser and water tank to capture moisture instead of venting it outside. The excess water either goes down the drain or collects in a removable tank you empty manually.
Cons of all-in-one washer dryers
Smaller capacity
The main downside of an all-in-one washer dryer is that capacities are much smaller. Separate washing machines often have capacities of 4-5 cubic feet or more. All-in-one units typically max out at 2-3 cubic feet.
This is because the drum has to accommodate both washing and drying. It’s fine for a single person or couple that doesn’t generate large loads. But for bigger families with lots of laundry, it may be too small. You’ll have to run more cycles to wash and dry the same amount of clothes versus a full-sized setup.
Longer dry times
Drying cycles take significantly longer with an all-in-one machine, often twice as long. The smaller drum size leads to longer dry times.
For example, a regular dryer may take 45-60 minutes to dry a normal load. The same load in a combo washer dryer could take 90 minutes to 2 hours to dry completely. Plan on drying taking up the majority of the total wash/dry time.
More wrinkling
The tumbling motion of all-in-one washer dryers can lead to more wrinkling of clothes. Having washing and drying in the same drum means wet clothes sit together for longer. This causes increased creasing and wrinkling.
You may need to iron clothes more often after drying. Or run a short tumble cycle without heat after drying to help minimize wrinkling.
Venting and condensation issues
For ventless combo washer dryers, the condensation system doesn’t always remove moisture perfectly. The interior of the machine can develop mold and mildew over time without proper maintenance.
Vented models require an external venting option to work properly. Without a vent, drying performance suffers greatly. But installing a vent isn’t always feasible based on the machine’s location.
Condensation tanks on ventless models also need regular emptying and cleaning. The excess water has to go somewhere. Overall, moisture control is a common issue on this type of machine.
Key factors when selecting an all-in-one washer dryer
If you’re considering an all-in-one washer dryer, keep the following factors in mind:
Capacity
Check the capacity in cubic feet based on your household’s laundry demands. Match the drum size to the average load you’ll be washing and drying.
Cycles and settings
Look for models with multiple wash and dry cycle options. More settings provide better fine-tuning for different fabric types and load sizes.
Venting
Determine if you need a vented or ventless model based on installation location and moisture removal needs. Vented dries better but requires ducting.
Efficiency
Select an ENERGY STAR certified model for lower energy use. Look for moisture sensors and auto dry features to maximize efficiency.
Noise level
Check decibel ratings. Combo washers and dryers tend to be louder due to the condensation system. Make sure noise is acceptable for your home.
Dimensions
Double check measurements to ensure the unit fits in your chosen space with room for ventilation.
Top all-in-one washer dryers
Here are some top rated all-in-one washer dryer models to consider across different budgets:
| Brand & Model | Capacity | Cycles | Venting | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LG WM3488HS | 2.3 cu ft | 14 wash / 10 dry | Ventless | $$$ |
| Electrolux EFLS527UIW | 4.3 cu ft | 15 cycles | Vented | $$$$ |
| Magic Chef MCSDRY1S | 1.6 cu ft | 10 cycles | Ventless | $ |
| Equator EZ 4400 CE | 3.5 cu ft | 19 cycles | Ventless | $$ |
The bottom line
All-in-one washer dryers provide a convenient laundry option for small spaces. But the capacity and drying limitations makes them best suited for smaller households with light laundry demands. For larger families, a full-sized washer and dryer still provide better performance. Carefully compare capacities, cycles, venting, and efficiency to choose the best combo washer dryer for your needs if you decide to go this route.