If you can only fit one appliance on the floor, a washer-dryer can save space, but its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. If you can make use of the vertical space, a stacking kit compatible with your appliances lets you keep two separate machines. Your choice of tumble dryer will then depend on the space available, the model’s features and how it handles condensed water.
A washer-dryer means you don’t need to find space for a separate tumble dryer. However, choose based on how much laundry you need to dry, rather than washing capacity alone: UFC-Que Choisir highlights that the two capacities differ.
A stacked set-up lets you keep a separate washing machine and tumble dryer without placing them side by side. Check that the appliances and stacking kit are compatible, and whether anchoring is required. Miele and Electrolux provide guidance for specific kits and configurations.
If you run drying cycles frequently, compare the energy consumption, capacity and maintenance requirements of heat pump tumble dryers that can be installed in your home. Bosch and AEG specifications vary by model.
First, work out whether you can fit a single appliance on the floor or whether a compatible stacked set-up is an option. Then compare the amount of laundry you can actually dry, the usage data and the connections required for the model you’re considering.
Consider this: when there’s room for just one appliance on the floor for both washing and drying.
Bear in mind: you may need to reduce the load after washing before drying. UFC-Que Choisir highlights this difference in capacity.
Consider this: if there’s enough vertical space for two separate appliances.
Plan for: a stacking kit approved for your chosen appliances, and follow its fitting instructions.
Consider this: if you can install a separate appliance and energy consumption matters to you when using it frequently.
Check: its energy consumption data and dimensions, rather than assuming its performance based on the technology alone.
Consider this: if you can install a separate tumble dryer and don’t have an external air vent.
Check: according to Whirlpool, whether condensed water can be plumbed in depends on the model; otherwise, you may need to empty the water tank.
| Factor | What to check | What matters to consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Space required | Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the clearance needed to open the door. For a stacked set-up, check that the kit is compatible. | When two appliances won’t fit side by side, my priority is to free up floor space; around 31 % of consumers put this need first. |
| Energy use and maintenance | Compare the energy data for the relevant cycle, then check the cleaning instructions and how the water is handled. | If I dry laundry often, I want to understand what each cycle involves in practice; this comes first for around 25 % of consumers. |
| Load and cycle time | Check the washing and drying capacities separately in kg, along with the duration of the programmes you’re considering. | After washing, I want to avoid taking some of the load out before drying; around 25 % of consumers prioritise capacity and turnaround time. |
| Installation | Check the location, power supply, required connections and, if necessary, the stacking instructions. | When an appliance needs to fit in a room with specific constraints, I need to confirm it can be installed there before choosing its technology; around 19 % of consumers put feasibility first. |
A full wash load may exceed the maximum load allowed for drying. For example, the Whirlpool BI WDWG 96146 FR has a stated washing capacity of 9 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg.
Compare both capacities in kg with the amount of laundry you want to dry in one go.
The stability of a stacked set-up depends on the appliances, their dimensions and the fixing system. The kits offered by Miele and Electrolux each have their own compatibility requirements.
Choose a kit approved for the models in question and follow its instructions, particularly if anchoring is required.
Whirlpool explains that connecting a tumble dryer to a drain depends on the model. An appliance that uses a water tank may therefore need emptying regularly.
Check the manual to see whether a drain connection is possible and which hose or kit is suitable.
Promotelec advises that washing and drying appliances need a suitable power supply, and highlights specific precautions for washing machines in bathrooms.
If you’re unsure about the circuit or location, have the installation checked before buying. Don’t rely on an extension lead or multi-socket adaptor to solve the problem.
Separate tumble dryers to consider when dimensions and condensate management affect where you can install the appliance.
A range worth comparing if you’re deciding between a washer-dryer and a separate tumble dryer.
Heat pump tumble dryers to consider if programmes designed for different fabrics matter to you.
Tumble dryers and accessories to consider for a stacked set-up.
This selection includes washer-dryers to reduce the number of machines on the floor, as well as separate tumble dryers to consider if you can install one. For each model, check how much space it needs and how much laundry you’ll actually be able to dry.
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Combines washing and drying in a single appliance on the floor. Its stated capacity is 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so you may need to reduce a full wash load before drying it.
Check the dimensions, connections and data for the wash-and-dry cycle that suits your needs.
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Another option for fitting washing and drying into one appliance on the floor, with a stated washing capacity of 10 kg and drying capacity of 6 kg. If you fill the drum for washing, bear the drying limit in mind before starting the programme.
Check the space available and consult the full-cycle data if duration and energy use are important to your decision.
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Dries laundry in a separate appliance, if you can make room for it or plan a compatible stacked set-up. Its stated capacity is 8 kg.
Check the model’s dimensions and energy consumption data. If you’re considering a direct drain connection, check the requirements first.
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Combines washing and drying in one machine. Its stated capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so plan to reduce a full wash load before drying it.
Check the dimensions, programme times and energy consumption data relevant to your needs.
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For drying laundry in a separate appliance when you can make room for it. Its stated capacity is 8 kg.
Check how much space it needs and consult the model’s manual to find out how to handle condensed water before deciding where to install it.
Not necessarily: washing and drying capacities are different. For example, the Whirlpool BI WDWG 96146 FR has a stated washing capacity of 9 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg. Stick to the limit for the programme you choose, even if you’ve washed a full load.
Don’t improvise when stacking appliances: use a kit that’s compatible with both machines and follow its instructions. For example, Electrolux describes a kit for certain front-loading appliances with a depth of 47 to 60 cm, with specific fixing requirements.
No, it depends on the model and how it’s installed. Whirlpool explains that some condenser tumble dryers can be connected to a drain. Check the manual to see whether this is an option and what accessory you’ll need.
This depends on the appliance and the room’s electrical installation. Promotelec specifies requirements including earthing, 30 mA residual-current protection and positioning for washing machines in bathrooms. Before installation, ask a qualified professional to confirm which requirements apply to your tumble dryer or washer-dryer.
No: don’t block any air inlets or outlets in your home. The French decree of 24 March 1982 on ventilation in homes requires general, continuous ventilation. Choose a location that allows air to circulate.