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Washer Dryer Buying Guide
Category: Guides
A reliable washer dryer will clean and dry your laundry for years to come. These appliances can fully launder your clothes in just one cycle, saving you space and money on your energy bills. This washer dryer buying guide takes you through the most important pointers when making a decision on your new appliance.
- What is a washer dryer and how does one work?
- Choosing your fit
- Washer dryer sizes
- How to measure for a new washer dryer
- Spin speeds
- Washer dryer energy ratings
- Features to consider
- Picking your colour
- Washer Dryer brands
- Washer Dryer FAQs
What is a washer dryer and how does one work?
A washer dryer is a washing machine with a built-in dryer for your clothes. This advanced type of washing machine enables you to wash and dry your clothes in the same appliance with just one cycle.
When buying a washer dryer there are vital points to consider such as size, fit, drum size and energy ratings.
Choosing your fit
The first consideration is to decide which type of washer dryer fit you want. There are two options to choose from: freestanding or integrated. Each option performs the same function in terms of cleaning and drying your clothes.
Freestanding
Freestanding washer dryers can be placed anywhere in your home as long as there’s a plug socket, drain and water supply close by. This makes them the most popular choice. Freestanding models will always be visible and will usually have a standard width of 595-600mm, making them easy to install and replace.
Integrated
Integrated or built-in washer dryers sit between kitchen cabinets and behind a cupboard door. This provides a seamless, discreet look in your kitchen - perfect if you want your appliance to blend in. Like freestanding washer dryers, they have a standard width between 595-600mm.
Washer dryer sizes
Once you’ve decided the fit that works for you, the next step is to consider which washer dryer size is best for your needs.
Most models come in a standard size at around 85cm high and 60cm wide. The depth can vary between 45 and 65cm depending on the drum size (see below).
Washer dryer drum sizes
Washer dryer capacities vary from 5 kg to 11+ kg, which is also known as the drum size. The weight is measured for dry clothes rather than wet. So, the drum size should be considered as the maximum laundry capacity and the weight of clothes should not exceed this.
We also strongly advise against overfilling your washer dryer for the following reasons:
- Laundry will not be cleaned and dried properly
- Overloading could damage the washer dryer
Take a look at this table to help you work out which washer dryer capacity is right for your household:
| Drum size | Household size | Number of items |
|---|---|---|
| 5kg washer dryer | Individual | 25 t-shirts |
| 6kg washer dryer | Couple | 30 t-shirts or a single duvet |
| 7kg washer dryer | Small family | 35 t-shirts or a double duvet |
| 8kg washer dryer | Medium family | 40 t-shirts or a queen-size duvet |
| 9kg washer dryer | Large family | 45 t-shirts or a medium king-size duvet |
| 10kg washer dryer | Larger family | 50 t-shirts or a heavy king-size duvet |
| 11kg+ washer dryer | Very large family | 55+ t-shirts or a heavy king-size duvet |
Click on the buttons below to find a washer dryer with the ideal drum size for you:
How to measure for a new washer dryer
Whichever type of washer dryer you choose, it’s always advisable to measure your appliance and the space where you intend to put it before purchasing. Follow the steps below to measure for your new washer dryer:
- Measure the doorways of the rooms the washer dryer will need to pass through to get to the chosen location in your home. This ensures that your chosen appliance will fit through.
- Measure the height, width, and dimension of the area where you want to place the washer dryer.
- Allow for a 4 to 5mm clearance at the back and sides of the washer dryer. This will allow room for pipes and ventilation.
- As you shop, check the dimensions of each washer dryer and ensure the appliance will fit where you intend to put it.
- If you’re replacing a washer dryer, a simple way of working out the right size is to measure the one you already have.
- Once you’ve chosen a product that will fit, select our installation service at the checkout to make the process even easier for you.
Spin speeds
A washer dryer’s spin speed refers to the maximum number of spins per minute or revolutions per minute (RPM) that the appliance can achieve. Those with a faster top spin speed will tend to dry your clothes faster.
The majority of washer dryers come with a variety of speed options to choose from. The different options help protect delicate items and wring out your laundry efficiently.
Click on the buttons below to find a washer dryer with the ideal top spin speed for you:
Washer dryer energy ratings
Washer dryer energy ratings range from A to G, with A being the most energy-efficient.
Choosing an appliance with a good energy rating will save you money on your energy bills (and will also be better for the planet!) Washer dryers with energy ratings of C and above are considered to be relatively energy-efficient models.
Features to consider
When shopping around for your new appliance, take into consideration the features that each appliance comes with and compare it with your needs. Below, we’ve highlighted the main features that you might want to think about.
Smart washer dryers
Some washer dryers offer smart technology. Using Wi-Fi connectivity, you can start, stop and activate a delayed start from your phone, so you can control your appliance remotely. You’re also able to receive notifications and monitor energy usage.
Delay start
You’ll also find washer dryers that come with a delayed start option. This enables you to set your washer dryer cycle to begin at a time that suits you. Delay start is ideal if you need quiet at certain times or you’d like to run your appliance when your energy tariff is lowest.
Sportswear programme
The sportswear programme keeps your gym and sportswear clean and fresh. It protects your items by washing them at a low temperature and low spin. The sportswear cycle also automatically optimises the run time and water usage.
Wool programme
Wool programmes protect your delicate woollen garments by providing a gentle wash, minimal tumbling and gentle heat to protect. This setting is ideal for keeping your wool clothes in good condition and preventing them from shrinking.
Drum light
Some modern washer dryers come with a drum light option, giving you better visibility inside the drum so you never end up leaving a sock behind. After 4 minutes the light will automatically turn off to save energy.
Sensor drying technology
Sensor drying technology uses in-built sensors in the drum to detect moisture levels whilst clothes are drying. When your clothes are completely dry, the washer dryer will stop automatically, saving you time and money on your energy bills.
Picking your colour
Once you’ve decided on the features you’d like your washer dryer to have, it’s time to consider which colour to go for. Below, we’ve explained the benefits of the most popular colour choices.
Black
Black washer dryers are very low maintenance because they’re easy to clean. This universal colour works well with different styles. Having a black washer dryer adds a modern, sleek touch to your décor.
White
White washer dryers create a clean classic look and they’re hassle-free to clean. Having a white washer dryer can also make a room seem bigger because the colour white bounces light around a room.
Grey
For a more contemporary look, you could consider choosing a grey washer dryer. It’s easy to pair a grey appliance with any type of colour scheme, making them an increasingly popular choice with our customers.
Washer dryer brands
We stock a broad range of approved and trusted washer dryer brands. You may want to choose your washer dryer from the same brand as the rest of your kitchen appliances. If not, you can compare the brands and see the different options they have.
We offer the following washer dryer brands and more:
Washer dryer FAQs
You may still have questions about which washer dryer to buy. Below are the most popular FAQs that our customers have asked.
If you still can’t find your answer, get in touch with our team today and we’ll be happy to help.
Which is the best washer dryer?
The best washer dryer is one that really works well for you and your needs. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule.
Start by considering whether you’d like a freestanding or integrated fit. Other important aspects to think about include your budget, the drum size, the spin speed, and the useful features you’d like to have (e.g. smart technology and sensor drying).
What is the standard size for a washer dryer?
A standard size is 85cm height x 60cm width x 60cm depth.
Will my new washer dryer need a vent?
Majority of washer dryers don’t need a vent because they use condensing technology, as long as there is an electricity and water supply. Although, a few washer dryers that don’t have this feature means that you will need to install the vent through an external wall to the outside.
How much does a washer dryer cost to run?
The average cost of having a washer dryer is around £1 per wash and dry cycle. Energy-efficient washer dryers will cost the least to run.
How long should a washer dryer last?
A washer dryer will usually last around 10 to 13 years depending on how often you use it. You can extend the lifespan of your appliance by looking out for signs of wear and having it fixed by a professional if required.
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