Washer Dryer Combo - Any Experiences?

I'm currently in the market for a washer/dryer combo as misus really start nagging during winter time when drying clothes is a real hassle. I love to have less clutter so separate units will be the last choice provided it sits on existing washing machine and works/ looks good.

My biggest concern is that I've heard that combo units usually don't perform too well when it comes to drying

Can anyone post any experience with it, or a similar combo unit?

Also - any experience re - Condenser Dryes?

Thanks.

Comments

  • I've got a LG combo machine. if you load the dryer too much then it takes a while to dry stuff.

    otherwise it is fine.

    though I use the dryer as last resort for drying (save power = save $$)

  • We picked up a Samsung combo model in April during the Easter sales. Overall we've found it pretty convenient but, one thing to keep in mind is that the drying times are very long as these don't work the same way as conventional dryers. It can take 4 hours to do a drying load on its own.
    We've found most loads come out nice and dry but occasionally we'll get a load that is still a bit damp. I think this is usually when we have some sheets or big towels mixed in with the clothes.
    Also, for our model, the washing load capacity and drying load are different (about 8kg & 4kg), so if we wanted to do a full wash and dry cycle in one go, we'd have to make sure we'd did't overload the machine. Either that or stop the cycle prior to drying so we can remove some stuff.
    These combo units probably wouldn't suit a family that needed to do lots of washing/drying as obviously with the one machine you can only do one or the other at one time and the drying cycle takes up so much time.

  • +1

    Had an LG 7/4kg for 8 years and loved it.

    It takes a long time to do a wash/dry cycle and the timer on the front was never accurate, but I'd just pop a load in before I went to work in the morning and then come home to clean, dry clothes in the evening. Or pop it on overnight. It suited my lifestyle perfectly. The electricity usage was lower than a conventional dryer - but water usage higher. Overall I'd say the cost was probably lower than running two units in a similar manner. The dryer aspect of it also didn't need a vent, which suited our situation too.

    The load was small for the unit size, but suited us at the time. I did occasionally accidentally overload or put something it that was too heavy and the clothes would be damp. But it's something you get a feel for.

    I chose to have a separate washer and dryer now as I have a lot more washing and am home more now that I have kids, but I do miss it at times.

    A lot of people whinge about them on the net - but most of the complaints seem to be unrealistic expectations. The long drying times can be a bit of a disappointment, understandably. Then there are people who expect the dryer part to work just like a conventional dryer, it doesn't. A lot of people also leave the door shut and then complain about mould issues - you can't expect the machine to be able to dry out if you keep the sealed door closed.

  • These often have a higher failure rate than separates so for once it's not a bad idea to get some kind of extended warranty.

  • Washer / Dryer combo's take a LONG time to dry, and use a LOT of water. Ie. http://www.lg.com/au/washing-machines/lg-WD1402CRD6
    77L (Washing), 27L (Drying)

    I'd recommend getting a cheap vented dryer. Quicker, won't use water, can wash and dry at the same time.

  • have one and do not like it, LG washes ok, but take way to long to dry washing, and will only do half the load to dry at a time, painful

  • Just posted a good price for a Bosch dryer https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/194583

    Might be up your alley.

    Edit: Ahh sorry I see you want a washer as well.

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