Washer-Dryer Buying Guide

A washer-dryer combines a washing machine and dryer in one space-saving unit. Here are some useful hints and tips to consider when choosing a washer-dryer.

How to Choose a Washer-Dryer: Introduction

You can save money and space by buying a washer-dryer instead of a washing machine and tumble dryer separately. With similar dimensions to a washing machine, a washer-dryer is especially useful when there simply isn't enough space to accommodate two machines.

For convenience, the washer dryer will wash and then dry your clothes in one setting ' so unlike conventional washing machines, you can put dirty washing in, and take clean, dried washing out!

Despite the convenience of a washer-dryer, a complete wash and dry cycle will take at least around 3 hours. Larger households might prefer having a separate washing machine and tumble dryer to speed up the load cycle, unless the drying cycle is a back-up for a clothes line.

Whilst a washer dryer will have the same types of washing programmes as a standard washing machine, the drying cycle is usually done by condensing - retaining the moisture within the machine - so there's no need for vents.

A great benefit of washer-dryers is that you can choose whether you want a load to be washed and dried, or just washed or dried - an especially useful feature if you want to save money and take advantage of dry weather by drying your clothes outside!

Features to Look For When You Buy a Washer-Dryer

When choosing a new washer-dryer, you will need to consider the following features and specifications:

Washing capacity -The maximum weight for each washing load.
Drying capacity -The maximum weight for each drying load. Typically half the weight of a washing load.
Temperature - Washing and drying temperature can be adjusted by a variable control or via built-in washing and drying programmes.
Spin speed - This is the speed at which washing is spun. Measured in revolutions per minute, the higher the spin speed, the easier it will be to dry your washing. Washer dryers can come with variable spin speed settings.
Vents - With a condenser system to retain the moisture for emptying from a separate tank, your washer dryer won't need external ventilation
Extra rinse - Improves the rinse cycle after the wash.
Wool wash - A gentler wash cycle to prevent damage to woollens
Delicates wash - For synthetics, silks and any garments that need gentle washing
Quick wash - A quick wash takes less time and uses less energy so it's ideal for lightly soiled washing
Half load - For washing smaller amounts
Reduced creases - Saving you time spent on ironing, this feature ensures that washing is delivered with less creases
Child lock - Safety system designed to prevent children from using the washer dryer
Freshen Up - If you have left clean washing in the washer-dryer for a period of time, this function will quickly freshen the washing ready for drying
Time remaining indicator - Shows time remaining for washing and drying cycles
Energy rating - Measured from A - G, with G using the most energy. Look out for washer-dryers with A or A+ ratings - they are the most efficient and have lower running costs.
Water consumption - Manufacturers can provide water consumption information to help you save on water costs.

Choosing a Washer-Dryer? Consider Installation & Delivery

Most online retailers will deliver and install your washer-dryer. You should read the delivery and installation terms and conditions carefully. Make sure that the washer-dryer can be delivered to your address, and that it will fit through the entrances to the designated part of your home.

Most good web sites will provide measurements for the dimensions of each washing machine, and will have a customer service department that can deal with any questions you have regarding the delivery and installation of your new washer-dryer.

Do I Need to Buy an Extended Washer Dryer Warranty?

Most manufacturers or retailers will offer at least a 1-year warranty with a washer-dryer, which ensures free repairs or a replacement under certain conditions. You can sometimes pay extra for an extended warranty but by shopping around online you might find longer coverage for the same type of washer-dryer.

Set a limit on the amount of money you are prepared to spend on a new washer-dryer. Shopping around online is an ideal way of making sure you don't go over budget, and still find the machine with the features you need. By comparing washer dryer prices between different retailers and taking advantage of special offers and discounts, you could get a better model of washer-dryer for your money.