Washing machines and dryers: pros and cons, types and choices

Modern technologies allow using one technique for washing and drying clothes. This saves a lot of time. Moreover, a washing machine with dryer allows you not to take up space with wet things in the apartment. Such household appliances have both pros and cons. Its use will be as comfortable as possible if you choose the right model correctly.

The washer dryer processes clothes in 4 steps: washing, rinsing, spinning, drying. The laundry is dried with hot air. To implement this idea, an additional heating element is used. The fans regulate the correct air circulation. The drum rotates at a low speed, which allows you to dry, but not damage things.

The way this technique works is pretty simple. Condensation forms during the drying process. It passes through the fluff filter and into a special reservoir.

Drying can be manual or automatic. In the first case, you should choose a time to dry your clothes yourself by setting a timer. In the second case, it is necessary to set the degree of final moisture. Built-in sensors will stop the drying process at the right time.

The machine works intelligently and does not damage clothes. In the case of the manual method it is worth carefully monitoring the state of things. If they are too dry, this means that you should set a shorter amount of time. Otherwise, the fibers of the fabric will become brittle and the clothes will wear out faster.

Drying can take place in different modes. They are divided into basic and additional. The first category includes fast and gentle drying, as well as processing things until they are completely dry. The latter is also called "into the cupboard". Additional programs allow you to freshen things up, straighten wrinkles or dry them.

The most popular is "Intensive" dryingwhich is present in most models. Usually things are processed within 40-60 minutes. Gentle drying and "closet drying" take longer, but do not overdry the fibers of the fabric. Dry wash option allows you not only to get rid of extraneous odors, but also to sterilize things.

A washing machine with a drying function appeared on the market relatively recently, and many housewives still mistrust it. The main advantages of this "smart" technique.

1. Practicality. One device can simultaneously remove dirt from things and dry them. This allows you to spend less time and effort keeping things in order.
2. Saving space. The washer-dryer takes up less space than two separate units. This is a good solution to save valuable floor space.
3. Versatility... The washing machine is usually designed for laundry, but you can dry any things in it. Household appliances allow you to tidy up pillows, blankets, soft toys, shoes.

The advantages are understandable, but not everyone dreams of a washer-dryer for a reason. Its main disadvantages.

1. Drum capacity. The load for drying is half that for washing. If you can wash 8 kg of clothes at the same time, then dry it - 4 kg.In this case, it is possible to dry all wet laundry in only two passes.
2. Energy consumption. Such a device is more costly than a conventional washing machine. However, it should be noted that such a solution is still more economical than two separate types of equipment.
3. Price. A 2-in-1 device is more expensive than separate tumble dryers and washers. This is due precisely to the versatility and increased comfort of use.

Some people believe that the washer-dryer is unreliable due to its complex design and increased stress. This is just a delusion that has nothing to do with reality.

The 2-in-1 washer-dryer can be both with horizontal and vertical loading. It doesn't really affect the use of the device. Industrial equipment is usually designed for a large amount of clothing, while household equipment is smaller in size and drum volume. Drying itself can be condensate or exhaust. Additionally, eco-drying can be carried out for a certain time or up to a given humidity.

It should be noted separately that the washer-dryer can be built-in. It can be conveniently hidden under the countertop.

Heat pump machines work by condensate type. The air in the drum heats up, things spin, and moisture gradually moves into a special tank - a heat exchanger. After cooling, the water enters the container, from which it can be subsequently poured.

Additionally, the machine has a filter. It purifies water and requires constant care. Such equipment can be connected directly to the sewer. The condensate will drain away and you will not have to monitor the condition of the tank. This is quite convenient in some cases.

Some washer-dryers of this type have additional option for smoothing with steam.

This ventilation type design is simpler. Washer-dryer does not have a heat exchanger and a reservoir for collecting water... The flexible pipe connects to the ventilation system. All steam immediately goes there. This type of work is considered more modern.

This type is used in more affordable models. The user must, at his discretion, set the time during which the laundry will dry. The program stops by the timer. We'll have to adapt and independently learn to determine the optimal time. It is important that the laundry does not dry out, so it is best to leave it slightly damp and iron it.

Professional and newer models work just like that. Before starting the drying process the user must specify the final humidity level... Built-in sensors constantly record the state of the laundry and turn off the program at the right time. Usually manufacturers do not use indicators of moisture percentage, but call programs in accessible and understandable terms.

A washing machine with such a dryer can bring things to a state that is suitable for moving things directly into the closet for ironing. Many models have a separate mode that allows you to put on the clothes immediately after the end of the process.

The dimensions of the device are of great importance.The most popular are washing machines with a dryer with a depth of 50 cm. At the same time, there are compact models from 45 cm. Such small devices are usually designed for 7 kg.

Washers and dryers can be 55-60 cm wide and 80-85 cm high. The maximum depth is 65 cm. Usually this technique is designed for 10 kg or more. The choice of technique should be based on the number of people in the family and the frequency of washing. In most cases, an 8 kg washing machine is sufficient.

A washing machine and dryer will last a long time if you initially choose a high-quality option. It is recommended to give preference to well-known brands that have already established themselves. Popular models of washing machines with dryers.

• Electrolux EW7WR447W. The equipment of the Swedish manufacturer has a front loading type and refers to freestanding. Energy consumption corresponds to class A. It is possible to use 14 wash programs, adjust the spin speed and water temperature. Additionally, there is a delayed start function until 20:00. There are separate operating modes for processing outerwear, sportswear and denim clothing. The manufacturer took care of safety and integrated leakage protection, foam control, balance control and keystroke lock.

• LG F-1496AD3. The direct drive significantly extends the life of the washer-dryer machine. The control panel is electronic, there is a dialog screen. Energy consumption corresponds to class B. Users can choose between 13 wash modes, among which there is a separate one for baby clothes, for removing stains and an economy wash. The security system includes protection against leaks and control over the amount of foam, key lock, balance control.

• Samsung WD70J5410AW. A distinctive feature is the ceramic heating element, which prevents the formation of scale. A self-diagnostics and self-cleaning system has been implemented. So a washing machine with a dryer practically does not create a hassle, does not require increased attention. The manufacturer has integrated 14 washing modes, if you can change the water temperature and the number of revolutions during spinning. It is possible to simply freshen up clothes, soak, pre-wash clothes with stains.

• Candy GVSW40 364TWHC... The washer-dryer has a special drum that allows you to effectively wash clothes even at 20 ° C. There are separate modes for mixed fabrics. The manufacturer has taken care of the possibility of anti-allergic washing and steam treatment. It is interesting that you can select a program not only on the display of equipment, but also from a smartphone. The protection system includes all the most important, monitors foam, leaks and balance.

• Indesit XWDA 751680X W. The washer-dryer has a front loading type. 12 modes of operation are provided as standard, in addition there is an opportunity to refresh things. Black laundry can be washed separately. Interestingly, the manufacturer made sure that no powder streaks remained on it.

• Hotpoint-Ariston FDD 9640 B. Quite a large washer and dryer. According to the manufacturer's assurances, it can be used for at least 10 years. A big advantage is the availability of 16 wash modes. The manufacturer has taken care to reduce the amount of substances that cause allergic reactions.

• Bosch WDU 28590... A distinctive feature of this technique is the presence of a separate mode for washing down clothes. Additionally, you can use the options for removing stains, smoothing out wrinkles, getting rid of an unpleasant odor. The washer-dryer has a large drum and is fairly quiet. Keeping track of your wash is easier thanks to the light on the drum.There is a self-cleaning mode, which greatly simplifies the maintenance of equipment. Drying of the laundry is carried out on a timer.

• Vestfrost VFWD 1460. Quite affordable cost makes the device attractive among analogs. The drum has a capacity of 8 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. The control is carried out using the touch screen. Users can choose from 15 modes of operation, including washing down and children's clothes, curtains, mixed types of fabrics. The self-diagnosis system allows you to notice the slightest malfunctions in time. It is possible to postpone the start of work until 24 hours.

• Siemens WD 15H541. The washing machine has a drum for 7 kg washing and 4 kg drying. Power consumption corresponds to class A +++, it is only 100 W * h / kg. Implemented high-quality protection against leaks. The machine has received intuitive control, so it is quite easy to use it. It works quietly during washing - up to 46 dB.

Even an inexpensive washer and dryer will be a good helper in your home. It is worth noting that professional models with a high price are usually taken for the laundry, but they are not needed in the apartment. Many washer-dryers can be installed under a sink or countertop. It is easy for them to find a place even in a small apartment. Important criteria for choosing a technique.

1. Installation method. Built-in cars should be measured down to every millimeter. Freestanding equipment is more in demand and is used much more often.
2. Boot type. Most of the models have a front hatch. Vertical types are quite rare and not in demand.
3. Roominess. It is worth considering in advance whether it will be possible to wash the blanket or pillows in the chosen model. In addition, you should pay attention to the load for washing and for drying. Indicators can sometimes differ by 2 times.
4. Drum material. It is worth giving preference to high-quality and reliable materials. Moreover, the drum must have many small cells and holes. The quality of washing and drying depends on this.
5. Drying activation type. Automatic activation provides for drying items immediately after washing. The manual switch allows you to dry your clothes without even washing them first.
6. Noise level. The machines usually work very loudly during the spin cycle, this should be taken into account. Of course, a silent model will cost more, but this is an important criterion.

The 2-in-1 washing machine may have additional functions. You should not immediately rush to the one that is endowed with many options, because you do not need all of them. Useful functions of washing machines and dryers.

1. Foam level control. At the end of each cycle, the technician will drain the water to reduce foaming.
2. Delayed start of the program. Allows you to load things for washing or drying, but start it at a convenient time.
3. Child lock. Makes the washing machine safer for babies. Moreover, it prevents accidental key presses and changes in washing or drying parameters.
4. Quick wash... This program allows you to wash and dry your clothes in just 1 hour.
5. Night mode. This option allows you to wash and dry efficiently, but as quietly as possible.

Washing machines and dryers have a fairly long service life. True, for this it is important to use the technique correctly and monitor it. Basic rules of operation.

1. Do not load the drum completely before drying.... This creates a heavy load on the machine and can lead to poor program execution.
2. Dry bulky things for example, jackets and down jackets, items made of silk, nylon and wool are not allowed. An exception is the technique, which provides special modes for working with such fabrics.
3. Washer-dryer consumes quite a lot of energyso it must be plugged into a separate outlet.
4. It is worth checking the pockets of clothes before washing.... Small objects falling into the drum may cause damage.
5. Children should not be left alone with the washing machine. This can be extremely dangerous.
6. You cannot change the program directly while it is running. You should wait until the operating mode ends, and only then you can turn on another.
7. Every six months it is necessary inspect the body of equipment for damage and defects.

The washer-dryer is presented in the video below.