What are the negatives of stackable washer dryer?

Stackable washer dryers have become a popular option for many homeowners looking to maximize space and efficiency in their laundry rooms. By stacking the washer on top of the dryer, you can fit both appliances in the space of one traditional machine. This allows you to do more laundry in a smaller footprint. While stackable units provide some great benefits, they also come with some downsides to consider before purchasing. In this comprehensive guide, we will overview the key negatives of stackable washer dryers to help you determine if they are the right choice for your home and lifestyle.

Higher Purchase Price

One of the main drawbacks of a stackable washer and dryer is that they come at a higher purchase price than traditional separate units. You are essentially paying for the stacked configuration that allows the pairing to take up less space. Expect to pay $1,200-$1,800 for a basic stackable washer and dryer set from a major brand. This cost is approximately 25-50% more than buying a top load washer and front load dryer separately.

The higher price tag is because of the specialty stacked design that requires extra engineering and more complex parts to allow the washer and dryer to operate as a unit. The dryer must be specially designed to absorb the vibrations and movement from the washer above it while running. This requires heavy damping components. The washer also needs a finished top and back since it will be visible. These specialized parts drive up manufacturing and retail costs.

If your budget is tight, a stackable unit may not be the most affordable option. You can often get more capacity and features for less money by purchasing basic separate appliances. However, if maximizing space is your top priority, the added cost may be worth it for you.

Limited Capacity

In order to create a unit that can be stacked, manufacturers must limit the capacity of each appliance. Stackable washer drums usually max out at around 3-4 cubic feet. Stackable dryer drums are in the 6-7 cubic foot range. This is several cubic feet smaller than full-sized washers and dryers designed to sit side-by-side.

The compact drum capacity means you can only wash and dry small loads. This is fine for a single person or couple that doesn’t generate a lot of laundry. However, families with lots of laundry to do may find the small drum capacity very limiting. You’ll have to do more frequent, smaller loads. This can be time consuming and inefficient. Those with bulky items like comforters, blankets, and towels may struggle to properly fit and dry these items in a stackable unit.

If you require large drum capacity, a full-sized top load washer and front load dryer is likely the better option. The larger drum capacity allows you to finish more laundry in fewer loads.

Ventilation and Overheating Issues

Proper ventilation is crucial for any dryer to work safely and efficiently. However, ventilation can be a notable issue with stackable units. With the dryer positioned below the washer, the typical rear venting set-up is difficult to achieve. Most stackable dryers are designed for bottom or side venting.

Bottom venting can allow lint and moisture build up under the dryer, leading to mold and mildew issues. Venting to the side requires the duct to go through cabinets, often with tight turns that restrict airflow. Some stackable units even vent to the side but then route to the rear, creating a convoluted vent path.

These venting workarounds can lead to restricted airflow. Lint and moisture build up in the ducts, trap heat, and force the dryer to work harder. This leads to longer drying times, increased risk of fire from lint accumulation, and premature failure of the dryer. Moisture can also damage cabinets or cause mold problems.

Ensuring your stacked dryer is installed with optimal venting is key. Short, straight ductwork vented to the exterior of your home is ideal. Avoid venting longer than 15 feet or with more than two 90 degree turns. Using rigid metal ductwork also improves airflow compared to flexible plastic ducts. Getting your vents professionally cleaned annually helps keep your dryer working safely and efficiently.

Installation Challenges

One of the appeals of a stackable unit is that you can potentially install it as a DIY project. However, for safe and optimal performance, it’s highly recommended to have stackable washer dryers professionally installed. There are some tricky aspects of installing these units that are best left to appliance installation experts:

• Proper load bearing – Stackable units can weigh over 400 pounds when full. This weight load requires bracing underneath to prevent sagging or collapse of shelving.
• Leveling – Each machine must be leveled precisely to avoid vibration transfer and to ensure proper draining.
• Securing the units – Stacked units are prone to tipping and must be secured together and fastened to the floor for safety.
• Electrical – Special wiring may be required, especially for gas dryer models.
• Ventilation – As discussed earlier, optimal dryer venting is crucial and tricky to achieve with a stackable unit.
• Plumbing – Connecting the washer to water lines and drain pipes takes skill.
• Gas connection – Gas dryers require special expertise to connect safely.

Trying to DIY the installation of a stackable unit, especially the gas and electrical connections, can lead to safety risks and poor performance if not done properly. Leaving it to professional installers mitigates these risks. However, hiring an appliance pro adds $100-$200 to the total cost.

Inconvenient Controls

Having the dryer positioned below the washer makes accessing the dryer controls inconvenient in a stacked unit. You need to crouch down to reach or see the dials and buttons to operate the dryer. This uncomfortable position leads many users to just bend over blindly and set the controls by feel. It’s easy to accidentally hit the wrong settings this way.

Many stacked dryers try to remedy this issue by placing the controls on the upper back corner of the machine. However, this can still be an awkward reach for some people.

A few higher end stackable models use electronics instead of old school dial controls. This allows the controls to be adjusted remotely using a phone app or voice assistant. However, most basic models still rely on hard-to-access manual dials.

Noise and Vibration Issues

Having your washer directly on top of your dryer inherently leads to some noise and vibration transfer between the two units. This can create some annoyances:

• The loud spin cycle and drainage sounds from the washer above get amplified down to the dryer below.
• The normal vibrations that occur in the washer during washing and spinning can shake the dryer, causing rattling noises.
• The added vibration transfer can shorten the life of the dryer and lead to premature failure.

To mitigate noise and vibration issues, stackable units utilize noise-dampening pads, rubber washers, and suspension rods. However, even with these measures, stackable sets are inherently louder and more vibrating than separate units. This is something to consider, especially if installing in a living space.

Maintenance and Repairs

While stackable washer dryers require minimal maintenance, when repairs are needed it can be a headache. Since the units are stacked together and often have finished sides, it makes access for repairs very difficult. Appliance repair technicians often have to fully detach and pull out the units to service them. This turns a routine appliance repair into a major undertaking.

Repair costs are also greater for stackable units given the complicated disassembly required to access internal parts and mechanics. Replacement parts can be more expensive too. Basic appliances tend to use cheaper universal components that are mass-produced. The specialty stacked configuration requires more proprietary custom parts.

If you aren’t very handy, stackable units will likely require hiring professional repairs. Make sure to find an appliance repair company that services stackable brands so they are familiar with the intricacies.

Limited Style and Color Options

With stackable washer dryers being a specialty product, the available options on the market are much more limited than traditional separate units. This can be frustrating if you had your heart set on a particular finish or color.

Most stackable washers and dryers only come in white or biscuit shades. Some brands offer black or stainless steel finishes at a premium price. Special colors like red, blue, etc are very hard to find.

The range of styles is also limited. You won’t find the classic round-shaped dryers. Most stackable dryers have a squared front and boxy shape for stacking. This can clash with more traditional laundry room aesthetics. If matching your appliances to your home’s style is important, stackable units may not offer everything you want aesthetically.

Long Term Reliability Concerns

Stackable washer dryers are still a relatively new concept. While short-term reliability is on par with other types of washers and dryers, there are some concerns over their long term durability.

Engineers warn that the stacking configuration leads to more stress on certain components over many years of use. For example, the added vibration through the frame can lead to cracks and leaks developing in the washer tub or the dryer drum. The complicated venting also puts more stress on the dryer over time.

Most experts suggest replacing washers and dryers after 10-12 years of use. However, some stackable units may need replacement sooner than this average lifespan. Doing your research to buy a stackable set from a reputable brand can help maximize durability. Purchasing an extended warranty that covers the entire unit is also a smart safeguard.

Conclusion

Stackable washer dryers offer convenience and space savings. However, the specialized stacked configuration also comes with some notable downsides. These include higher purchase costs, limited capacity and features, ventilation challenges, noise and vibration transfer, difficult repairs, lack of style options, and potential long term reliability issues.

Weigh these cons against the pros of a stackable unit for your specific needs. They are ideal for small spaces like apartments and condos where laundry capacity needs are low. However, large families with high laundry loads may want to opt for full-sized traditional washer and dryers set side-by-side for maximum drum capacity and long term durability.

Carefully measuring your laundry area and analyzing your family’s habits can clarify if stackable units are the right choice. If maximizing space is most important, then the benefits likely outweigh the negatives. Installation location also impacts the decision. Positioning stackable units in a utility room or garage helps avoid noise transfer or venting issues in living spaces.

Understanding both the advantages and disadvantages allows you to make an informed decision. While no appliance is perfect, the ideal washer and dryer match your family’s unique needs and priorities. With proper care and maintenance, stackable or traditional washers and dryers can provide years of clean laundry for your household.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are stackable washer dryers bad?

Stackable washer dryers are not inherently bad. They provide a valuable space-saving option in small laundry rooms and apartments. However, the stacked configuration does come with some drawbacks compared to full-sized separate units. The smaller capacity, venting challenges, and noise transfer issues may make them a poor choice for larger families.

Do stackable washer dryers have more problems?

Stackable units are more complex and can experience issues like increased noise, vibration, improper venting, and premature part failures. However, when properly installed and maintained, stackable units have roughly the same repair frequency as traditional side-by-side appliances.

Why you shouldn’t buy a stackable washer dryer?

You may want to avoid stackable washer dryers if you need large capacity drums, have a tight budget, want long term reliability, or need easy access to controls. Traditional washers and dryers often better suit these needs. Stackable units are best for small spaces when capacity needs are low.

Is a stackable washer and dryer worth it?

Stackable units provide valuable space savings, but also come at a higher cost and some functionality compromises. They are worth it for small households with limited laundry areas. Families with high capacity needs may not find them as beneficial. Your specific needs determine if they are worthwhile.

What are the pros of stackable washer dryer?

The main benefits of stackable washer dryers are:

• Take up less floor space
• Allow installation in narrow closets or bathrooms
• Create laundry space in small apartments/condos
• Provide cleaner look with appliances hidden out of sight
• Allow laundry rooms to double as utility space

How long do stackable washer and dryer last?

With proper care and maintenance, a quality stackable washer and dryer should last roughly 10-12 years. However, some experts warn the stacking arrangement may place more stress on certain components, resulting in a slightly shorter lifespan of 8-10 years.

Key Takeaways on Stackable Washer Dryer Negatives

• Higher purchase price than buying separate full-sized units
• Smaller drum capacity limits laundry loads
• Venting issues lead to longer dry times and fire risks
• Controls on dryer are inconvenient to access
• More noise and vibration transfer between units
• Specialized repairs often required
• Limited style and color options
• Long term durability concerns due to added stress on parts