Washer dryer: Consumer tips
Washer dryers are the ideal solution for households that want to wash and dry but do not have enough space for two separate appliances. These all-rounders not only save space but also time and effort when doing laundry. With advancing technology, the latest models from 2024 offer an impressive combination of efficiency, performance, and user-friendly features. In our guide, we show what to look for when buying a washer dryer to find the model that best meets your needs.
What is a washer dryer?
A washer dryer combines a washing machine and a tumble dryer in a single device. These practical household helpers provide an efficient solution for washing and drying laundry without the need to transfer the laundry between cycles. Ideal for apartments with limited space.
Important purchase criteria for washer dryers
- Capacity and size: The capacity of a washer dryer is crucial for determining how much laundry can be washed and dried at once. It should be noted that the drying capacity is often lower than the washing capacity.
- Energy efficiency: The efficiency of washer dryers has improved significantly in recent years. When purchasing, one should look for devices with high energy efficiency classes (A to G) to save electricity and water in the long run. Modern devices offer eco programmes that minimise energy consumption.
- Programs and features: Modern washer dryers come with washing and drying programmes tailored to different fabric types and levels of soiling. Some models also offer special features such as steam smoothing or allergy-friendly programmes.
- Noise level: Since washer dryers are often placed in living areas, the noise level during operation is an important factor. Models that operate particularly quietly do not compromise living comfort.
- Smart Home: Smart features allow devices to be controlled via smartphone or tablet and integrated into a Smart Home system. They enable monitoring of the washing and drying process. Automatic dosing systems dispense detergent and fabric softener accurately, saving costs and protecting the environment.
Is it worth buying compared to two separate devices?
Washer dryers are only sensible if there is not enough space for two devices. Although they can wash an average of 5 kilograms, half of the laundry must be removed for the drying process, as a washer dryer can only dry 50 percent of the laundry. Manufacturers often specify exactly half of the washing amount for the drying cycle. Therefore, if one wants to wash and dry in one go, one should only load as much laundry as the drying capacity allows. Additionally, washer dryers increase operating costs, as they are true energy and water wasters: A conventional washing machine consumes an average of between 45 and 50 litres, and a classic dryer uses no water. In contrast, a washer dryer requires between 78 and 92 litres of water for a complete cycle. The lifespan is also lower compared to two separate devices for washing and drying. If either the washing or drying element is defective, the entire device is affected, and the lifespan is almost half that of a pure washing machine. Furthermore, the costs for a washer dryer are only slightly lower than for two devices, so due to the increased operating costs, purchasing two devices is actually cheaper.
What should one consider when buying?
If the space for the washer dryer is very small, it is advisable to choose a top loader. Here, the laundry is loaded from above, and the devices are usually narrower. Front loaders, which are loaded from the front, can have another device or a cabinet placed on top. In general, the size of the device should be chosen according to the size of the household: A capacity of 5 kilograms for washing and 2.5 kilograms for drying is suitable for single or two-person households. For families or shared flats, a model with capacities of 6 kilograms for washing and 3 kilograms for drying is a good choice. In any case, pay attention to the power consumption. The water consumption should also be as low as possible. However, also consider the load capacity, as a washer dryer that has the same water consumption for 3 kilograms of laundry as another for 2.5 kilograms operates more economically and environmentally friendly with 3 kilograms of laundry. Furthermore, the maximum spin speed is important. It determines the drying level of the washed textiles. The more revolutions per minute the washing process achieves, the drier the laundry is before the actual drying. The most common maximum speed for washer dryers is 1,200 revolutions per minute. Higher speeds are not necessarily needed due to the integrated dryer.
