Choosing between different types of washers and dryers

Mostly, washers and dryers of different types are available in the market. Depending upon overall space, requirements and practicality factors, one can choose between any of these two major types of washers and dryers:

Stackable

For homes or commercial properties that have space crunch, stackable washer & dryer is the best option. This stackable option consists of two independent machines – the washing machine and a dryer. Both of them are stacked at the top of each other and therefore, they save half the space that a dryer may otherwise require. They tend to be quite expensive when compared to regular combos of washers and dryers, but they save space and offer better flexibility of your household space. Stackable ones feature two loads and come with different washing and drying cycles for different types of clothes. They are water efficient, but most of them times they aren’t as aesthetically appealing as regular washers and dryers.

All In One Combo Pack

Washing machines that feature a dryer unit on its side is referred to as the all-in-one combo, washer dryer pack. They are quite easy to use and mostly available in various types and styles to suit different functionalities. For instance, a combo pack that features simple, single load can be used for both washing and drying and doesn’t require transferring clothes from one load to another. But the drum capacity of these products tends to be smaller than that in the stackable units. The other combo is of two loads, located side to side, with a larger washable unit and simple drying unit for clothes. The ones with smaller drying load tend to have clothes that can feel damp and may require ironing or cooling.

Other factors

Capacity

Capacity is one of the primary factors that must be considered while buying washers and dryers. It must be noted that a single kilogram capacity indicates that the product can only have a pair of trousers, t-shirt, underwear and socks or may have a jeans, top, underwear and undershirt. Therefore, choosing a ten kilogram wash capacity is best for family of three to four individuals. In such cases, a dryer combo of at least seven kilogram of dry capacity shall be chosen. Washer and dryer combos with better capacities are also available.

Spin Speed

Spin speed refers to the speed with which clothes are washed and dried. Washer and dryers should be chosen on the basis of their spin speed control. For instance, washers may feature three types of spin speed, including normal, aggressive and sensitive for different kinds of products. On the other hand, in case of dryers, faster spin capacity ensures that more water is extract. Therefore, choose washer and dryers on the basis of their overall spin capacities and number of speed options.

Top or front load

Majorly, two types of washer and dryer loaders are available in the market. Usually, the combo option of washer and dryer is available in top load, which is much cheaper than the stackable counterparts. Top loader is easy to access, cheaper but offers lesser kinds of washes and the spin speed may not work well for sensitive clothing. Combo front load washes tend to be costlier, but they are generally energy efficient, use lesser water and have gentle wash programs. Stackable washer and dryers only come in front load, they are quite energy efficient and water efficient. But they can be quite messy, especially when it comes to transferring clothes from washer to dryer. A careful consideration of the space where the combo is going to be put is recommended when making a choice in this regard; you definitely don’t want a front-loading machine in a 2-meter-wide space, for example.

Energy Rating

For all those who need washer-dryer which don’t burn a hole in the pocket, the best option is to choose washer dryers that provide good energy rating. Mostly, energy rating can be in terms of A to C or in terms of stars. Therefore, choosing a washer dryer with better energy rating is a good option. Sensor drying is one of the ways to save on electricity bills as it automatically shuts of the machine when clothes are dry. This prevents wastage of energy.

Therefore, different factors, such as type and style of washer-dryer, size of the dryer and washer, capacity of the unit and different types of washing settings must be taken into consideration while purchasing a washer-dryer unit. Once you have figured out which option is the best for your household, use Shopbot’s price comparison tools to find the product that offers you the best balance between quality and price.