Stacking lets you keep a separate washing machine and tumble dryer when floor width is limited, provided you can find a stacking kit that’s compatible with both models and have a stable, accessible space for them. If there’s only room for one machine, compare the washing and drying capacities of a washer-dryer. If you have enough width, placing the machines side by side avoids the need to stack them, but you’ll still need to check the connections and ventilation.
You want to keep two separate appliances without needing two floor spaces for them. Stacking is worth considering if you can find a kit that suits the models and dimensions of both appliances, with the tumble dryer above the washing machine.
A washer-dryer combines both functions in a single appliance. Compare its drying capacity with its washing capacity, and check how long the combined programme takes for your usual loads.
Before choosing between a stacked set-up and a single machine, ask a professional to check the location against the electrical zones, as well as the earthing and circuit protection. The connections and ventilation will also affect where you can put the appliance.
Consider this : when floor width is limited but there’s enough height to keep two separate front-loading appliances.
Bear in mind : your choice depends on finding a kit that suits both models, having a washing machine on a stable floor and ensuring the controls are still within easy reach.
Consider this : when there’s room for just one appliance.
Bear in mind : the drying capacity may be lower than the washing capacity, and the length of the combined cycle also matters.
Consider this : when there’s enough width to access both doors and controls easily.
Bear in mind : this arrangement takes up two floor spaces, although it means you won’t need a stacking kit.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Stacking compatibility | Note down the model numbers and depths of both front-loading appliances. Check that the kit is designed for this combination and that the washing machine can stand on a flat, solid floor. | I want to keep two appliances in a narrow room without pairing incompatible models. Around 42% of consumers would put the compatibility and stability of a stacked set-up at the top of their list of concerns. |
| Location and connections | In a bathroom, ask a professional to check the electrical zones, earthing and circuit protection. Also check that the connections are accessible and follow the ventilation instructions for your chosen tumble dryer. | In my bathroom, I need to know whether the location is suitable before making my choice. Installation feasibility would be the priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Capacity of a single machine | Compare the maximum washing and drying loads, then check the duration and energy consumption listed for the combined programme on your chosen model. | When there’s room for just one machine, I want to know whether it can dry my usual load without splitting it up. For around 25% of consumers, the capacity of a single machine would be the main consideration. |
Similar widths don’t guarantee compatibility. Bosch says the kit must be matched to the tumble dryer, while Electrolux specifies a depth range for its E1WYHSK2 kit.
Make a note of the full model numbers for both appliances, then check the kit’s product page and the user manuals before making your choice.
If the combination isn’t suitable, you may need to reconsider your choice of appliance or kit.
Depth is part of the stated requirements for some kits. Whirlpool also says that, when stacking appliances with a kit, the washing machine must be at least as deep as the tumble dryer.
Compare the depth of the appliances and kit with the space you actually have, allowing for hoses, protruding parts and the doors opening.
A washer-dryer’s washing and drying capacities aren’t necessarily the same. LG lists a washing capacity of 8,5 kg and a drying capacity of 5 kg for its F852SV52IRS.
Check both capacities in kilograms and the duration of the wash-and-dry programme listed for the model you’re interested in.
If your load is larger than the drying capacity, you may need to split it before drying.
How close the appliance is to a shower or bath affects what needs to be checked. Promotelec highlights the electrical zones, earthing and 30 mA residual-current protection.
If you’re unsure about the layout or electrical zones, ask a professional to inspect the location and circuit, particularly if the appliance is going in a cupboard.
Depending on the set-up, you may need to move the appliance or have the circuit adapted.
For planning a stacked set-up with a kit chosen to suit your appliance models.
For stacking Electrolux front-loading appliances when their depth meets the requirements of the kit you’re considering.
For pairing two Miele appliances with a stacking kit selected to suit their product ranges.
For checking the requirements of a stacking kit designed for standard-sized appliances.
For comparing a washer-dryer with a stacked set-up when there’s room for only one appliance.
Ask a professional to check the location against the electrical zones, as well as the earthing and circuit protection. Promotelec specifically highlights 30 mA residual-current protection and the appliance’s position in relation to zone 2. A professional can assess the requirements for your room, including if the machine is going in a cupboard.
No. The term doesn’t remove the need to check the requirements for the kit and both appliances. Whirlpool presents a Wpro kit for standard 60 × 60 cm appliances, while Bosch and Electrolux specify requirements that include depth or model numbers. Always check the user manuals for the combination you’ve chosen.
It depends on the two capacities listed for the model, which may differ. LG lists a washing capacity of 8,5 kg and a drying capacity of 5 kg for the F852SV52IRS. Compare these figures with your usual load to see whether you’ll need to take some clothes out before drying.
Check the installation instructions for your chosen tumble dryer before deciding where to put it. Electrolux recommends a sufficiently spacious, well-ventilated room to limit condensation. Requirements vary according to the user manual for the model you choose.