Home with space for just one appliance
A washer-dryer combines both functions without taking up a second space on the floor. However, check its drying capacity separately: UFC-Que Choisir notes that it is lower than its washing capacity.
Which setup is right for you?
Household that does back-to-back washes
With two separate appliances, you can start another wash while the previous load is drying. If you’re considering a heat-pump tumble dryer, compare programme times too and check how much room you’ll need to install it.
Household considering a stacking setup
Available height alone won’t tell you whether stacking is possible. Check the model numbers of both appliances and look for a stacking kit that the manufacturer lists as compatible. If your plans involve adding a new external air vent, check the rules that apply to your home separately before carrying out any work.
What should you check before choosing?
Start by measuring the space you actually have, then compare drying capacity and programmes with your laundry routine.
| What to consider | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Space needed | Measure the space, access route and door opening, and check the clearances specified in the instruction manual. For a stacked setup, check the kit against the exact model numbers of both appliances. | I only have floor space for one appliance: a washer-dryer or a compatible stacked setup would help me keep the space clear. |
| Load size and cycle time | For a washer-dryer, compare the washing and drying capacities in kg. Check cycle times for comparable loads and programmes. | I do several loads close together, so I want to know whether I’ll need to remove some clothes before drying or wait for a combined cycle to finish. UFC-Que Choisir highlights that a washer-dryer’s drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. |
| Energy and water use | Compare electricity figures on the same measurement basis. For a washer-dryer, also check the water and electricity figures for the wash-and-dry cycle. | If I dry clothes regularly, I want to assess the running costs for that use, not just the space needed. UFC-Que Choisir notes that heat-pump tumble dryers use little electricity. |
| Air outlet and water | Know the difference between condenser, heat-pump and vented models. UFC-Que Choisir explains that a vented model needs a sufficiently large room and an opening to the outside. For relevant models, check how water is collected or whether a drain connection is compatible. | Without an external air outlet, I want a solution that doesn’t need one. If water is collected in a tank, I want it to be easy to access. |
Which mistakes should you avoid?
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Choosing a washer-dryer based only on its washing capacity
A load that fits in the washing drum may exceed the permitted drying capacity. UFC-Que Choisir lists these two capacities separately in its washer-dryer guide.
Compare both figures in kg for the specific model and check the wash-and-dry programme time for the load you expect to run.
If a load is too large for drying, you’ll need to split it into several batches.
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Confusing condenser and vented tumble dryers
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a vented tumble dryer needs a sufficiently large room and an opening to the outside. A condenser model does not need an external air outlet.
If you don’t have a suitable outlet, check whether any proposed installation is feasible before choosing a vented appliance.
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Stacking two appliances without checking the kit
Matching dimensions don’t prove that two appliances are compatible. Bosch, for example, says its WTZ2741X kit is for a full-size washing machine more than 55 cm deep. This condition doesn’t apply to every kit.
Check the exact model numbers of both machines and follow the manufacturer’s compatibility list and installation instructions.
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Forgetting to leave room for maintenance
You’ll need to be able to reach the filter and water tank in the space you choose. Ease of use is one of the points covered in UFC-Que Choisir’s tumble-dryer testing protocol.
Check the instruction manual to see which parts need maintaining and whether a compatible drain connection is possible.
A guide to the brands
Bosch
Worth considering if you’re planning a stacked setup with a kit suited to the exact appliance models.
- Bosch says its WTZ2741X kit lets you stack a tumble dryer on a full-size washing machine more than 55 cm deep.
- This condition applies to this specific kit. Check that each appliance pairing is compatible before installation.
Electrolux
Worth looking at for condensate management, provided the model and space allow for a connection.
- Electrolux presents its E2YH01 kit as a way to drain water into a sink or nearby pipe.
- Before planning this setup, check that the kit is compatible with your specific tumble dryer and the position of its water tank.
LG
A useful example of why you should check a washer-dryer’s two capacities separately.
- An LG model listed in UFC-Que Choisir’s archive is rated at 9 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying.
- These figures apply to this archived model, not to every LG washer-dryer.
Appliances to consider on Joybuy
These options include a washer-dryer for a single appliance space, plus separate heat-pump or condenser tumble dryers if you have room for a second machine.
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Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE, 8 kg heat-pump tumble dryer
A separate drying option if you have a suitable space. The model name indicates an 8 kg capacity and a C rating. Check the dimensions, clearances and programme times to make sure it suits your setup.
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Samsung WD11DG6B85BEU3, 11 kg / 6 kg washer-dryer
Washing and drying in one appliance, taking up just one space. The model name indicates an 11 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity, so a load of more than 6 kg will need to be reduced before drying. Check the space and connections required too.
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Comfee CD08EHP05W-HR, 8 kg heat-pump tumble dryer
A separate appliance to consider if you have room for a second machine. The model name indicates an 8 kg capacity and a D rating. Check the dimensions and programme times to see how well it suits your room and laundry routine.
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Electrolux EDH1018CD GentleCare, 8 kg condenser tumble dryer
This separate condenser tumble dryer is an option if you don’t have an external air outlet. The model name indicates an 8 kg capacity. Check that you can access the water tank and that there’s enough room for the door to open and for the required clearances.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need an external air outlet to install a tumble dryer?
Not with a condenser tumble dryer, including a heat-pump model: it doesn’t need a vent to the outside. A vented tumble dryer, however, needs a sufficiently large room and an opening to the outside, as UFC-Que Choisir explains. Always check the installation instructions for your specific model.
Can a washer-dryer dry a full load of washing?
Not always: UFC-Que Choisir says its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. Compare the two figures in kg for your chosen model, and remove some clothes if the wash load exceeds the drying limit.
Can you put a tumble dryer directly on top of a washing machine?
Don’t assume the two appliances can be stacked without an accessory. Check which kit and appliance models the manufacturer approves. Bosch, for example, says its WTZ2741X kit is for a full-size washing machine more than 55 cm deep. You’ll still need to check that your specific appliances are compatible.
Can you avoid emptying the tank on a condenser tumble dryer?
Yes, if the model supports a compatible drain connection and there’s a suitable outlet nearby. Electrolux, for example, offers the E2YH01 kit to drain water into a sink or pipe. Check that it’s compatible with your specific appliance before relying on this solution.