Washer-Dryer Combo Buyers Guide

In many homes, space for household appliances is limited. Finding a separate spot for both a washing machine and a dryer is often a challenge. A washer-dryer, a combination appliance for washing and drying, offers a space-saving and practical solution. However, the wide range of models and technologies can be overwhelming.

This article serves as your guide. We will introduce the most important criteria for your purchasing decision and present a selection of appliances with different strengths to help you find the perfect model for your household.

What to Look for When Buying a Washer-Dryer

To make an informed decision, several technical aspects and features are important. The following points will help you define your requirements.

1. Capacity for Washing and Drying

Capacity, measured in kilograms (kg), is one of the most critical criteria. It indicates how much dry laundry can fit into the drum. For washer-dryers, a distinction is made between the capacity for washing and for drying. The drying capacity is always lower by design, as laundry requires more space in the drum to dry effectively.

• For single or two-person households: Models with a 7 kg washing and 4 kg drying capacity are often sufficient.
• For families: A washer-dryer with a 9 kg washing and 5 to 6 kg drying capacity is a popular and highly recommended size to efficiently handle larger loads of laundry.

2. Energy Efficiency and Technology: Condensation vs. Heat Pump

The operating costs of a washer-dryer are largely determined by its energy and water consumption. The EU energy label provides information on this. A key technological distinction is the drying method.

• Classic Condensation Washer-Dryers: These appliances use a heating element to heat the air for drying. They are often more affordable to purchase but consume more energy.
• Washer-Dryers with a Heat Pump: A washer-dryer with a heat pump operates far more energy-efficiently. It uses a heat pump to warm the air and dehumidifies it in a closed circuit. Drying occurs at lower temperatures, which not only reduces energy consumption but is also gentle on your fabrics. Although the initial purchase price is higher, the investment can pay for itself over the years through lower electricity costs.

3. Programmes and Special Features

Modern appliances offer a variety of programmes that make daily life easier. Useful features can include:

• Steam Programmes: For refreshing clothes and reducing wrinkles, which makes ironing easier or even unnecessary.
• Quick Programmes: For rapidly washing and drying smaller loads of laundry.
• Smart Control: Some models can be controlled via an app. This allows you to select programmes, start the cycle, or monitor the appliance remotely.
• Automatic Load Detection: The appliance automatically adjusts water and energy consumption based on the actual load size.

Our latest washer-dryer selections

Based on the criteria mentioned, we have compiled a selection of models that cater to different needs.

Samsung WD81TA049BE/EG, 8/5 kg

Why it stands out: This model from Samsung combines proven technologies with practical features for everyday use. According to the manufacturer, its ecobubble technology ensures a thorough yet gentle clean even at low temperatures, while the AirWash function refreshes clothes without water or detergent.

Advantages:

• ecobubble Technology: Delivers a deep clean by turning detergent into bubbles before the cycle begins.
• Hygiene Steam Programme: An additional steam treatment can, according to Samsung, remove bacteria and allergens from laundry.
• AirWash: Ideal for neutralising odours and refreshing lightly worn clothing.
• Digital Inverter Motor: Operates quietly, efficiently, and is designed for a long service life.

Who it's for: This appliance is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized households (2-3 people) looking for a reliable combination appliance for washing and drying with useful extra features at a balanced price-performance ratio.

Samsung WD9BHG5U34BEEG, 9/6 kg

Why it stands out: The Samsung washer-dryer WD9BHG5U34BEEG is designed for efficiency and smart operation. With AI Ecobubble, the appliance adapts its washing performance to the fabric type. The AI Energy Mode in the SmartThings app can reduce energy consumption by up to 70%, according to the manufacturer.

Advantages:

• Large Capacity: With 9 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, it's ideal for families.
• Super Speed 39 Min: Washes a 5 kg load in just 39 minutes.
• AI Energy Mode & SmartThings: Enables intelligent energy management and remote control via an app.
• Microplastic Cycle: A special programme that can reduce microfibre shedding from synthetic textiles by up to 54% (according to the manufacturer).

Who it's for: This model is aimed at tech-savvy users and families who value speed, a large capacity, and intelligent features for optimising energy consumption. Anyone looking to buy a modern washer-dryer that integrates into a smart home will find this a suitable option.

AEG L9WEF80690 with Heat Pump, 9/6 kg

Why it stands out: The AEG washer-dryer L9WEF80690 is one of the few models on the market equipped with advanced heat pump technology. Its SensiDry technology dries laundry at significantly lower temperatures, which dramatically reduces energy consumption and protects delicate fabrics. The appliance was rated with a score of 2.0 by the German consumer organisation Stiftung Warentest in its 11/2023 issue.

Advantages:

• Heat Pump Technology: Highly energy-efficient in drying mode (Energy Efficiency Class C), saving on electricity costs in the long run.
• DualSense Technology: Adjusts the temperature and drum movement to the specific fabric type, allowing even wool and outdoor wear to be dried gently.
• ProSteam Programme: Refreshes clothes and reduces wrinkles.
• NonStop 3h/3kg Programme: Washes and dries up to 3 kg of laundry in just three hours.

Who it's for: Ideal for environmentally and cost-conscious households that dry laundry frequently and are willing to invest in a future-proof technology. It is especially suitable for those who often care for delicate textiles like wool or performance wear.

Looking for More Options?

This selection represents just a small sample of the available models. If you want to compare more appliances or filter by specific features, you can find a wider selection in our comprehensive category.

? Explore more models in the Washer and Dryer category here

Frequently Asked Questions

How much laundry really fits in a washer-dryer?

Always pay attention to the two different capacity specifications: one for washing and one for drying. The drying capacity is always smaller (often about 50-60% of the washing capacity). For a combined wash and dry cycle without removing any laundry in between, you must adhere to the lower drying capacity.

Is a washer-dryer with a heat pump the better choice?

From an energy perspective, a washer-dryer with a heat pump is the more efficient solution. While the initial purchase price is higher, the investment can be amortized over the appliance's lifespan through lower electricity consumption. This is especially true if you use the drying function regularly. Additionally, the lower drying temperature is gentler on your textiles.

Can you use a washer-dryer just for washing or just for drying?

Yes, all washer-dryers can be used as a standalone washing machine or a standalone tumble dryer. You can use the functions independently or combine them in a continuous programme. This flexibility is one of the major advantages of a combination appliance.