All-in-One Washer-Dryer Combos: Pros & Cons

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Appliance Buyers Guide

All-in-one washer-dryer combos combine washing and drying in one unit. They’re space-saving and convenient but come with trade-offs. Here’s a detailed look at their advantages and disadvantages to help you decide if they’re right for you.

How They Work

Washing: Functions like a traditional front-load washer—agitating, rinsing, and draining water.
Drying: Uses ventless drying technologies like:
Condensation drying: Heats air, condenses moisture, and drains it.
Heat pump drying: Uses a loop system to recycle warm air, reducing energy use.

Pros of All-in-One Washer-Dryer Combos

Space-Saving Design
- Ideal for small homes, apartments, or locations without space for separate appliances.
- Ventless models can be installed almost anywhere with a water line.

Convenience
- Eliminates the need to transfer clothes between washer and dryer.
- Automatic wash-to-dry cycles let you “set it and forget it.”
- Some models reduce maintenance by draining lint instead of collecting it in a filter.

Energy Efficiency
- Heat pump dryers use 28% less energy than standard dryers.
- Efficient in both water and energy use.

Gentle on Fabrics
- Combos are designed to wash and dry with care, making them great for delicate items.

Dual Functionality
- You can use them as standalone washers or dryers.

Cons of All-in-One Washer-Dryer Combos

Long Drying Times
- Drying can take 2–3+ hours for a single load.
- Prolonged cycles make it impractical for high-volume laundry needs.

Limited Drum Capacity
- Smaller drums (1.6–5.3 cubic feet) compared to traditional dryers (7–9 cubic feet).
- Difficult to handle large loads or bulky items like comforters.

High Initial Cost
- Prices range from $1,800–$2,900, comparable to buying separate high-end washer and dryer sets.

Single-Load Operation
- You can’t wash one load while drying another, making laundry day much longer.
- Four loads can take up to 10 hours.

Drying Performance Variability
- Clothes may feel damp or take additional time to air-dry.
- Heat pump dryers may not achieve the same “dry feel” as traditional vented dryers.

Complexity
- Dual functionality can mean more components to maintain and repair.

When to Consider an All-in-One Washer-Dryer Combo

Best For:
Small living spaces lacking room for separate units.
Homes without external venting options.
Low laundry volumes or users who prioritize convenience over speed.
Not Ideal For:
Large families or households with heavy laundry demands.
Those needing to wash and dry multiple loads quickly.

Experts Test Findings

Tested brands include LG, GE, Whirlpool, and Samsung.
All models are Energy Star certified and excel in:
Washing performance.
Energy and water efficiency.
Noise control and fabric care.
Drying Performance: Generally subpar with longer times.

Summing it up

Advantages: Compact, energy-efficient, and convenient for small loads.
Drawbacks: High cost, limited capacity, and long drying times.
Final Verdict: Great for niche situations but may not be time-efficient for frequent, high-volume laundry needs.