Is a washer/dryer worth buying?

katejo

My kitchen isn't big enough for separate washing machine and dryer and I have never had a washer/dryer because I have read that they are not that efficient. However, with the bad weather so far this year, I am fed up with having 2 lots of clothes almost permanently hanging in my house.
I have to get an integrated washing machine so I am wondering whether to try a washer dryer. I would only use the dryer during bad weather.
Is it worthwhile?

fwor

They are something of a compromise, in that a washer/dryer is never going to be as good as separate units, but if you haven't got the space they work quite well in my experience.

I think most include condenser dryers now, but if not then obviously you'll need an external vent in a wall.

I've owned three now - one cheap Italian made one, which was not good as very hard to get it balanced, and two AEGs - both very good.

faerie~spangles

I've had two and both lasted for years. Problem was I was too cost conscious to use the dryer on a regular basis and really only used the dryer in emergencies or to 'freshen' something up.

Plus I really prefer to line dry outside.

katejo

I would be exactly the same but I am rarely hanging the washing out now because of the frequent rain. i had just put it out yesterday when the skies opened.

macman

And remember that a washer/dryer can only dry half a full wash load at a times- you'll have a pile of wet washing waiting to go back in the dryer, which is also much slower than on a dedicated dryer.

katejo

macman wrote: »

And remember that a washer/dryer can only dry half a full wash load at a times- you'll have a pile of wet washing waiting to go back in the dryer, which is also much slower than on a dedicated dryer.

Thanks for reminding me of this. I had forgotten as I rarely use one. Think I will stick with a washing machine and make more effort to get things hung out when possible.

gemmaj

I've never had a tumble drier so can't compare, but I don't have a problem with my washer dryer(s) (I've had 3 in all).

I dry towels, sheets and nappies - only rarely clothes as I don't think a drier OR a tumble drier will be good for the clothes (my opinion only).

They should only dry 1/2 to 3/4 of a load, but I find I can get a 3/4 load totally dry or a full load virtually dry. Sometimes things come out damp at edges but just need an hour draped over the furniture and then are fine. I have never put less in my machine because I will be drying.

At the moment I have a Zanussi with a large drum, which I am very happy with. I'm looking at re-doing the kitchen and could fit a tumble drier in if I wanted, but I have no desire to "waste" the extra space when my washer-driers are fine.