If you don't have space to dry washing outdoors, choose a separate heat pump tumble dryer if you have room for a second appliance and regularly dry large loads. If you only have space for one appliance, a washer-dryer could suit you, provided its drying capacity and combined cycle time fit your laundry routine. In either case, check the dimensions with the appliance installed, how far the door opens, ventilation requirements and the maintenance instructions in the manual.
If your home can only accommodate one large appliance, compare the washing and drying capacities of a washer-dryer, as well as the length of its combined cycle. For example, both the LG F964V50WRS and Electrolux EW7W3924SV have a stated washing capacity of 9 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg.
If you can install a separate appliance, choose its capacity based on the loads you want to dry and how many washes you need to get through. A separate tumble dryer also lets you wash one load while another is drying.
If you can't install an external vent or access is restricted, check the delivery route, dimensions with the door open, ventilation, electrical connection and the stacking requirements for the exact model.
Start with the space you actually have and the amount of washing you need to dry. Then compare the cycles, the energy consumption shown on the label and the maintenance required for each model you're considering.
Best if: you can install a second appliance and regularly need to dry several loads one after another.
Bear in mind: you'll need extra permanent space, and you should check the model's product information for the drying cycle length.
Best if: you only have space for one appliance and want to wash and dry your clothes in the same machine.
Bear in mind: drying capacity may be lower than washing capacity, and you'll need to factor the combined cycle into your laundry routine.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Measure the appliance with its connections in place and the door fully open; also check the delivery route. | In a narrow room, I want to be able to open the door and move around comfortably; around 31% of consumers say the appliance's footprint is their main concern. |
| Electricity consumption | Compare the energy consumption and programme times on the current labels for the models you're considering. | If I dry clothes regularly, I want to keep an eye on the electricity used for each cycle; around 23% of consumers say this is their main concern. |
| Capacity and routine | For a washer-dryer, check the washing and drying capacities separately, and look at the combined cycle time. | When doing several loads or washing bedding, I want to avoid splitting loads too often; around 31% of consumers prioritise capacity and drying times. |
| Installation and maintenance | Check how condensed water is handled, ventilation requirements, the recommended cleaning routine and, if stacking, which stacking kit is approved. | If my installation is restricted, I want to be able to manage the water and maintain the appliance in line with its manual; around 15% of consumers put these tasks and installation requirements at the top of their list. |
The LG F964V50WRS and Electrolux EW7W3924SV washer-dryers have a stated washing capacity of 9 kg, but can only dry up to 6 kg. So a 9 kg wash load will need to be reduced or split before drying.
Plan around the drying capacity and check the wash-and-dry cycle time for the exact model.
Connections and the open door can make an appliance awkward to use, even if it fits in the space. For example, LG states that the F964V50WRS has a depth of 1,100 mm with the door open at 90°.
Measure the delivery route, the depth once the appliance is installed and the clearances specified in the manual.
According to Que Choisir, a condenser tumble dryer doesn't need an external vent, unlike a vented model. You still need to manage the condensed water and follow the manufacturer's installation and maintenance instructions.
Check whether the model uses a tank or can be connected to a drain, then check its ventilation requirements and the cleaning tasks listed in the manual.
The WQH246CSFR heat pump tumble dryer is a useful example for comparing capacity and dimensions.
The freestanding PerfectCare 700 EW7W3924SV washer-dryer is an example of an all-in-one option.
The F964V50WRS washer-dryer gives you a useful point of reference for comparing washing and drying capacities.
The T1 TEA525WP 8kg Active heat pump tumble dryer is a useful example for looking at how condensed water is managed.
These models are separate tumble dryers, suited to homes where you can install a second appliance without needing an external air vent. Compare their capacities, then check the manual for each model to find out how much space it needs, its ventilation requirements and how it handles condensed water.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have space for a separate tumble dryer and are looking for a stated capacity of 8 kg. This white heat pump model is listed in energy class C; check the manual for installation dimensions and how it handles condensed water.
Image unavailable
Its stated capacity of 10 kg is worth comparing with your usual loads and the space you have available. This white heat pump model is listed in energy class D; check its dimensions, cycles and how it handles condensed water before choosing.
Image unavailable
Compare it with other 8 kg models if you have room for a separate appliance. This white heat pump model is listed in energy class D; check the manual for clearance requirements, maintenance and how it handles condensed water.
No, it doesn't need an external air vent. Condensed water is collected in a tank or, depending on the model and installation, drained through a hose. You should also follow the ventilation instructions in the manual.
No. If its maximum drying capacity is 6 kg, a 9 kg wash load must be reduced or split before drying. Check the capacities and programme requirements in the manual for the model you're considering.
Measure the space, the delivery route and the room needed once the appliance is connected, with the door open. To show why the last measurement matters, LG states that the F964V50WRS has an overall depth of 565 mm, but needs 1,100 mm with the door open at 90°; use the dimensions for the model you plan to buy.
Yes. Depending on the model, you'll need to clean the filters, empty the condensed-water tank or check its drainage, and follow the instructions for the condenser. Check these tasks in the manual, even if the model is advertised as having a self-cleaning condenser.