Making sure you get your next washer dryer purchase correct is important for the functionality of your home. Whether you're a small family or furnishing your first home, a washer dryer can make your life much easier.
INSTALLATION
The first consideration you'll have to make is whether you want a freestanding or integrated washer dryer. This can significantly impact the look of your kitchen or utility room design.
Freestanding
A freestanding washer dryer is a standalone model that combines a washing machine and tumble dryer into one appliance. These can fit under your kitchen counter or be stacked, giving you the flexibility to install wherever there is a water supply.
Integrated
Unlike freestanding models, integrated washer dryers fit inside a counter behind a cabinet door. These are great for modern interiors, keeping your household looking clean and seamless.
DRUM SIZE
Unlike other laundry appliances, washer dryers come with two capacities. The larger first weight is the washing capacity and the smaller second weight is the drying capacity.
- Small 5-6kg: a small drum size is capable of holding around 7-9 towels, 5 trousers and t-shirts, or 1 single duvet.
- Medium 7-9kg: a medium drum size is able to hold around 10-13 towels, 7 trousers and t-shirts, or 1 double duvet.
- Large 10-13kg: a large drum size can hold around 14-18 towels, 10 trousers and t-shirts, or 1 kingsize duvet.
It is important to note that the drying capacity will always be less than the washing capacity, so you may have to remove items after a wash cycle.
FEATURES
There are lots of different washer dryers on the market at the moment, so it can be difficult to know what to choose. Here is a list of the most important features to consider.
Energy Rating
Keeping your energy bills under control means you have to watch out for the energy efficiency ratings. As washer dryers are both a washing machine and tumble dryer, they tend to be less efficient than washing machines, ranging between B-A efficiency ratings.
Spin Speed
The spin speed of a washer dryer is the number of times a drum spins in a minute. The higher the spin speed, the more water is removed which means less energy is required to dry the laundry.
Brushless Motors
If you're looking for a quieter appliance that is much more reliable, you'll want to look out for brushless motors. Instead of using noisy brushes, these motors use magnets to generate the movement.
WASHER DRYER FAQs
We've been asked a multitude of questions over the years, so we've compiled a list of common questions we get asked during a washer dryer purchase.
What is the standard size of a washer dryer?
Washer dryers tend to have a standard width of 60cm and height of 85cm, whilst the depth can range from 55-70cm depending on the drum size.
How long is a quick wash?
There isn't one set quick wash time and it can vary between manufacturers, but the average time is between 15 to 30 minutes.
What is the cost of the cheapest washer dryer?
At Kitchen Economy we stock a variety of washer dryers under £350.
