If you only have room for one appliance, a washer-dryer can handle both washing and drying, provided its drying capacity suits your laundry loads. If there’s space for a separate tumble dryer, compare condenser models by their stated energy consumption, dimensions, noise level and how they collect water.
If you need to wash and dry in the space available for a single appliance, make sure your laundry loads fit within the washer-dryer's drying capacity. UFC-Que Choisir points out that this can be lower than its washing capacity.
If you have room for a second appliance, compare tumble dryers' stated energy consumption by cycle and technology, as well as their installation requirements. UFC-Que Choisir lists available space and connections as key factors to consider.
If you often dry large loads, compare drying capacity, cycle times and the space the appliance will take up before choosing between a separate tumble dryer and a washer-dryer.
UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between the installation requirements of a separate tumble dryer and those of a washer-dryer, and notes that a washer-dryer's drying capacity may be lower than its washing capacity. Start by measuring the space, then compare the loads and cycles you’ll actually use.
| Feature | What to check before buying | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Measure the depth, space in front of the door and access to the appliance; compare washing and drying capacities separately. | If you only have room for one appliance, check that it and its open door will fit in the space. Around 28% of consumers prioritise the space available. |
| Cycle energy consumption | Compare the kWh figures for equivalent cycles. For a washer-dryer, distinguish between wash-only and wash-and-dry cycles. | If you dry clothes often, check the energy consumption of the programme you’ll use rather than relying on a single feature. Around 22% of consumers put electricity consumption first. |
| Load size and cycle time | Compare the drying capacity in kilograms with the size of your usual loads, and check how long the programme you plan to use takes. | If you need to dry several loads in a row, check the actual capacity and how long it takes to get through your laundry. Around 22% of consumers prioritise laundry capacity and cycle time. |
| Installation and water collection | Check whether the appliance needs an air outlet, where the water tank is located and whether the model can be connected to a drain. | If you don’t have a convenient external vent, check the installation instructions and how to access the tank or drain. Around 17% of consumers prioritise installation and water management. |
| Noise | Check the stated noise level and which part of the cycle it applies to. | If the appliance needs to go near a room you use, check the noise level stated for the relevant cycle. Around 11% of consumers prioritise quiet operation. |
Its drying capacity may be lower. You may need to reduce a full washing load before drying it.
Compare the washing and drying capacities, then size loads for a full wash-and-dry cycle according to the drying capacity in kilograms.
Loads that need to be split can mean extra drying cycles.
The information to compare differs between tumble dryers and washer-dryers, and between wash-only and full wash-and-dry programmes.
Compare the stated energy consumption for equivalent cycles and check the label for the relevant appliance category.
A condenser appliance collects water in a tank or sends it to a drain connection provided for that model.
Check where the tank and filters are, along with the installation and maintenance instructions for the model you choose.
An example of a separate heat pump tumble dryer: the WQG24502FR Série 6, with a stated capacity of 8 kg.
An example of a separate heat pump tumble dryer: the PerfectCare 700 EW7H5125EU, with a stated capacity of 8 kg.
An example of a washer-dryer: the F964V50WRS, with a stated capacity of 9 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying.
Beko France describes the DU10112CX0W as a conventional condenser tumble dryer with a stated capacity of 10 kg.
This selection includes separate condenser tumble dryers, including heat pump models, as well as washer-dryers that combine both functions.
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This separate tumble dryer could suit you if you have space for an additional appliance and are looking for a stated capacity of 8 kg.
The description mentions a water collection tank, so make sure you can access it easily.
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This separate tumble dryer is worth considering if you have room for an additional appliance and want a stated capacity of 8 kg.
The title gives it an energy rating of C. Check the label and the cycle data relevant to how you plan to use it.
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This separate model is worth considering if you have a dedicated space and want to compare a stated capacity of 10 kg.
The title gives it an energy rating of D. Compare the energy consumption data for the cycle you plan to use.
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This separate tumble dryer could suit a dedicated space if its stated capacity of 8 kg matches your usual loads.
The title gives it an energy rating of D. Compare the energy consumption data for the programme you’ll use.
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This washer-dryer is worth considering if you only have room for one appliance to wash and dry your clothes.
The title gives a washing capacity of 11 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg. If necessary, reduce a full washing load before drying. The description specifies suitable water and drainage connections, as well as installation by a suitably qualified professional.
No. A condenser model collects water in a tank or sends it to a suitable drain, unlike a vented model. Follow the installation instructions for the model you choose.
Not necessarily: the drying capacity may be lower than the washing capacity. For example, LG France gives the F964V50WRS a washing capacity of 9 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg. Compare the two capacities before starting a full wash-and-dry cycle.
No. The letters alone aren’t enough if they come from different energy-labelling systems. The European Commission states that tumble dryer labels have used the A to G scale since 1 July 2025. Compare the information that applies to each model. Washer-dryers have a separate energy label.
Follow the model’s instructions for accessing the filter, condenser and tank. Electrolux’s product details for the EW7H5125EU specifically mention cleaning the filter and condenser, as well as a full-tank indicator. The layout can vary between models.
The statutory guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to an individual. The French Ministry for the Economy and Finance states that you have two years to claim under it. This guarantee is separate from any optional commercial warranty.