What are the Benefits of a Combo Washer Dryer?

March 30, 2012 By Leave a Comment

Washer Dryer Combo

The key benefits of washer dryer combo units make them very useful in many different types of applications.  Below I have highlighted each of these benefits:

  • Space Saving – This is probably the biggest benefit about a combination washer and dryer.  Instead of having two appliances, this unit combines both a washer and a dryer into one package.  They come in a variety of load capacities, however, most of the combo units are about the size of a full size dishwasher and are counter height so you can even install them under your kitchen counter.
  • Portable – You can purchase casters for most combination washer and dryers making them easier to bring out when you are ready to do laundry and move out of the way when not in use.
  • Efficient – Combination washer dryers use less water than your top load washers since they use technology similar to a standard front load washer.
  • Ventless – Most combo washer dryers do not need to be vented like your standard dryer does.  This allows the combo units to be used pretty much anywhere there is electricity and a water connection.
  • Electricity Requirement – The majority of combination washer and dryers only require a 115 volt plug instead of the 230 volt plug that is required by most of your standard dryer units.
  • Gentle – Combo units utilize a horizontal axis drum similar to that found in front load washers.  The horizontal axis drum mimics the washboard clothes washing action by raising the clothes out of the water and plunging them back in.  This method of washing is much gentler on the fabric than the agitator method used by top load washers.
  • Ease of Use – With combo units you have the ability to put your load of laundry in and it will both wash and dry them.  Most even come with delay timers so you can have the load finishing when you are ready.  Many people throw a load in before they leave for work and utilize the delay timer so that it will be finishing when they get home.

Do you have or have you ever used a washer dryer combo? Let us know in the comments!

 

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How to Use a Washer Dryer Combo

February 20, 2012 By Leave a Comment

washer dryer combo

You needed a laundry solution.  You were tired of trekking to a wash room or laundromat (washeteria for my friends in Louisiana).  You did the research and figured a washer dryer combo is what will fit your needs.   Now that you have this beautiful piece of equipment, what do you do with it?  Here are some simple guidelines to follow to help you use your combo most effectively.

Choose Your Load Size

Most units have a 13 to 15 pound capacity, though LG makes a unit with a 22 pound capacity.  13 to 15 pounds is about 3 complete outfits (pants, shirt, socks and undergarments), or about 6 to 8 bath towels.  It is important not to overload the unit, as it will not get your clothes as clean as they can be and it will be harder for the unit to dry the clothes.

Combo Washer Dryer Detergent

Next comes the detergent.  It is imperative that you use a low sudsing, high efficiency detergent, something with that cute little HE symbol on it.

HE Symbol

"Cute Little HE Symbol"

Powder works best, but if you prefer a liquid, go for it.  With these units, about two heaping tablespoons is all you need.  Most units will also have a space for fabric softener.  This is highly recommended because it helps to cut down on wrinkles, and generally makes your load soft afterwards.  There will also be a place to add bleach.  As with the detergent, powder bleach will work best, but you can use liquid just fine.  Be sure not to use too much though!

Water Setup

If you have the unit hooked to separate hot and cold water outlets, then you just choose whichever setting will work for your load.  Now, if you have the unit hooked to just one outlet with a faucet adapter and Y connector, you should use just cold water.  If you want to wash something in hot, set the machine for hot water and the unit will heat the water for you.  Also, cold water helps the unit dry the clothes better than hot water (weird, I know, but trust me on this one).

Final Tips

Now, just load the clothes, put in the detergent, choose your cycle, and you are off and running.  Keep in mind, once the cycle starts, the door will lock and you will be unable to open until the entire cycle is finished.  You can set these units to wash only, dry only or both.  Generally, a full wash and dry cycle takes about 3 hours.

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