If you dry laundry frequently and can install two appliances side by side or stacked, a heat pump tumble dryer can help reduce electricity use compared with a conventional condenser model, although it usually takes longer to dry, according to UFC-Que Choisir. If you only have room for one appliance, a washer-dryer saves space by eliminating the need for a second appliance. However, its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, and drying takes longer and also uses water, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. Stacking is only an option if you have a stable floor, compatible appliances and a suitable stacking kit.
A washer-dryer combines both functions in one appliance. Before choosing one to save space, compare its drying capacity with its washing capacity: you may not be able to dry a full load in one go, as UFC-Que Choisir explains.
A stacked setup gives you two separate appliances while taking up the floor space of just one. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking that the washing machine is stable, measuring both appliances and making sure they can be stacked using a compatible kit.
If installation is possible, it’s worth comparing a dedicated tumble dryer with a washer-dryer. According to UFC-Que Choisir, heat pump models use less electricity than conventional condenser tumble dryers, which usually dry more quickly.
Start by measuring the available space and checking the installation requirements. Then compare capacities and the figures for the cycle you’ll actually use.
| Factor | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the clearance needed to open the doors. For a stacked setup, also check the available height and whether the two appliances are compatible. | I only have room for one appliance, or I can make use of the height rather than setting aside space for two appliances side by side. |
| Energy and water | Compare energy use for similar cycles and capacities. For a washer-dryer, check the figures for washing and for the complete wash-and-dry cycle separately, including water use. | If I dry laundry often, I want to assess the appliance’s full operating cycle, not just its washing performance. |
| Drying capacity | For a washer-dryer, distinguish between the load capacity for washing and for drying. For a dedicated tumble dryer, compare its capacity with that of your washing machine. | I’d rather know before buying whether I’ll need to take some laundry out before drying each load. |
| Installation | For a stacked setup, UFC-Que Choisir recommends two front-loading appliances of similar dimensions, with the washing machine level and stable and the tumble dryer on top. Check which kit is suitable for both models. | I can stack the appliances if the floor, machines and kit make this a suitable installation. If I still dry some laundry indoors on a rack, I also need to choose a suitable, well-ventilated room, in line with ADEME’s recommendations. |
| Cycle times | Check the duration of the programme that matches your needs. UFC-Que Choisir reports that a washer-dryer takes longer to dry than a conventional tumble dryer, and that a heat pump model usually takes longer than a conventional condenser model. | When I have several loads to get through, I need to consider how long the appliance will be in use. |
Its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, UFC-Que Choisir points out. So you may need to split a load after washing it.
Compare the two capacities and size your loads according to the drying capacity if you want to run both cycles one after the other.
An unstable stack can shift or topple. According to UFC-Que Choisir, the tumble dryer should be placed on top of the washing machine, with the installation stable and secure.
Before installation, check the instructions for both models, their dimensions and which stacking kit is designed for them.
You’ll need to allow for a stacking kit with this setup; also check that it leaves the appliances accessible.
A condenser tumble dryer doesn’t need a vent to carry air outside, but its location must meet the manufacturer’s installation requirements. If you also hang laundry indoors, ADEME highlights the moisture released as it dries.
Check the clearance required around the appliance. For air-drying laundry indoors, ADEME recommends a large, well-ventilated room or one with a mechanical ventilation extract vent.
The washing figures for a washer-dryer don’t tell you everything about its complete wash-and-dry cycle. The drying stage also uses water, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
On the product information, check the capacity, energy use, water consumption and duration for the specific cycle you want to compare.
These ranges are useful starting points when comparing specific models. A kit’s compatibility or a range’s features won’t necessarily apply to every appliance from the same brand.
Bosch Electroménager France offers 8 and 9 kg heat pump tumble dryers, as well as stacking kits.
The range featured by Miele France includes tumble dryers with capacities of 7, 8 and 9 kg.
Beko France offers a range of heat pump tumble dryers.
This selection includes washer-dryers for a single space and dedicated tumble dryers if you have room for a second appliance or a compatible stacked setup. Check the dimensions and installation requirements for each model before choosing.
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This washer-dryer combines both functions in one appliance. The product title lists an 11 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. Adjust the load if you want to run both cycles without taking any laundry out.
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This dedicated tumble dryer has an advertised capacity of 8 kg and uses condensation drying. Check its exact technology before comparing its energy use and drying time with those of a heat pump model.
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This dedicated heat pump tumble dryer has an advertised capacity of 8 kg and an energy rating of C. If you’re considering stacking it, check its dimensions and compatibility with the washing machine and stacking kit.
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This heat pump tumble dryer has an advertised capacity of 8 kg and an energy rating of D. To see whether it’s right for a home without a utility room, check its dimensions, how it handles condensed water and the duration of the programmes you’ll use.
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This model combines washing and drying in one appliance. Its product title lists a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. This lower drying capacity matters if you want to dry a full load without splitting it.
No, not if there’s no suitable way to vent the moist air outside. A condenser model avoids the need for an external vent, but be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on installation and ventilation for the room.
Not necessarily: according to UFC-Que Choisir, its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. Compare the two figures for the model and remove some of the laundry if the washed load exceeds the drying limit.
No. UFC-Que Choisir recommends front-loading appliances of similar dimensions, with the tumble dryer on top of a level, stable washing machine. Check the instructions for both models and make sure they’re compatible with the stacking kit.
Compare figures for the same type of use, and take the cycle capacity and duration into account. For a washer-dryer, distinguish between washing alone and the complete wash-and-dry cycle, which also uses water. For a dedicated tumble dryer, check the figures for its own drying cycle.