Combo de lavadora y secadora:guía de compra
Una combinación de lavadora y secadora puede ser justo lo que está buscando, especialmente si el espacio es escaso. Estas unidades también se denominan comúnmente lavadoras/secadoras todo en uno, y son simplemente una lavadora de carga frontal y una secadora de condensación construidas como una sola unidad. Esto les da la ventaja de meterse en lugares donde nunca cabrían dos unidades separadas.
Aunque las lavadoras de carga frontal tradicionales están diseñadas con la opción de apilarse encima de una secadora para ahorrar espacio en el piso, algunas casas aún no pueden acomodar dos electrodomésticos. Esto convierte al combo lavadora-secadora en una alternativa sumamente práctica, ya que la lavadora y la secadora se combinan en una sola unidad. De hecho, ¡muchos modelos están diseñados para caber debajo de una encimera!
Por qué comprar un combo de lavadora y secadora
Hay varias razones por las que una combinación de lavadora y secadora puede ser adecuada para ti, pero la razón más común es la falta de espacio. Donde una lavadora y secadora apilables son 2 unidades separadas apiladas una encima de la otra, una lavadora y secadora todo en uno es 1 solo electrodoméstico que completa el lavado de la ropa y el secado.
De hecho, una vez que haya comenzado la carga de ropa, la próxima vez que deberá ocuparse de su ropa será cuando esté seca y lista para usar.
Pero cuidado, con todas las ventajas, estas unidades tienen inconvenientes que las hacen no aptas para todos los hogares. Como regla general, si su hogar puede acomodar una lavadora y una secadora tradicionales, será mejor que compre las 2 unidades separadas en lugar de un combo.
Los combos no son capaces de manejar grandes cargas de secado, y no podrá ejecutar una carga de lavado al mismo tiempo que está secando una carga. También tardan más en secar la ropa, lo que los hace más adecuados para hogares pequeños.
Aún así, este combo tiene un lugar y vale la pena considerarlo, especialmente si el espacio en el piso es limitado. Algunos buenos ajustes y usos comunes son:
- RV y barcos
- Casas de huéspedes o de vacaciones
- Apartamentos y Condominios
¿Qué es una lavadora secadora todo en uno? ?
Una lavadora secadora todo en uno, también conocida como combinación de lavadora y secadora, es simplemente una máquina diseñada para lavar y seca tu ropa dentro de la misma unidad.
Las lavadoras y secadoras combinadas no son nuevas. Han existido durante años y, de hecho, se han convertido en el estándar en barcos y vehículos recreativos. El concepto es simple. Coloque su ropa sucia en la lavadora, luego, sin siquiera transferir la carga, su ropa estará seca y lista para ser retirada.
En los últimos años, los electrodomésticos combinados han ido ganando popularidad. Con un diseño mejorado y tecnología de punta, compañías como Whirlpool y LG han visto una demanda de sus unidades en Europa. Ahora los propietarios de viviendas en los Estados Unidos están comenzando a darse cuenta.
A medida que crece la demanda dentro de los Estados Unidos, los fabricantes compiten para satisfacer las necesidades al continuar mejorando su tecnología, expandir su línea de modelos y brindar opciones adicionales.
¿Cómo funciona una combinación de lavadora y secadora?
La lavadora en un combo funciona igual que una lavadora independiente tradicional de carga frontal. Sin embargo, la secadora es totalmente diferente y usa condensación para secar la ropa. Este método de secado es lo que proporciona a la unidad combinada su versatilidad. Veamos cada función individualmente:
Lavadora
Una lavadora combinada tiene la puerta montada en la parte delantera del electrodoméstico, lo que permite que la unidad funcione en el ciclo de lavado de la misma manera que una lavadora independiente independiente de carga frontal.
Uno de los beneficios de un combo es la capacidad de programar su ciclo de lavado y secado cuando comienza su carga. No hay necesidad de terminar el ciclo de lavado y luego programar el ciclo de secado, todo se puede hacer al principio. ¡Permitiéndote comenzar tu lavado y no volver a él hasta que haya terminado!
Secador
Una gran ventaja de una unidad combinada es que la secadora no necesita ventilar el aire cálido y húmedo del exterior como una secadora tradicional. Without an outside vent, clothes are dried differently than traditional dryers, which tumble the clothes in forced hot air. These units also don't require the same amount of electrical power that a traditional dryer needs.
Instead of a vent, a drain hose is used to release the moisture. This is a critical difference between a traditional dryer and a combo condensing dryer. Clothes are dried using a condenser which converts steam to water. This method of drying extracts moisture from the clothing and then drains the condensed water down a sink.
But be aware that this method of drying will also increase the dry time for your laundry. In many cases the average is between 1-1/2 to 3 hours!
Condensation Drying Technology
Condensation dryers use a closed-loop system which prevents moisture, lint and heat from being released into the area surrounding the dryer. In addition, the dehumidifying process also prevents moisture from being released into the air.
- Hot air is heated in the drum and is passed thru the laundry.
- The air then travels thru a heat exchanger instead of being vented outside.
- The heat exchanger cools and condenses the air.
- The moisture removed from the air exits the appliance thru a drain line.
- The air is then reheated and the process repeats.
This video will show how a condensation dryer works.
Watch the Video
How Does a Combo Compare?
If you're thinking about purchasing a combo washer and dryer, you may want to consider the pro's and con's. Keep in mind that these appliances won't require a vent, but they will still need a water source.
Pros
- Space saver
- Less weight
- Washes and drys without the need to transfer clothes
- No vent needed
- Uses standard electrical outlet (120v)
- Easier on clothing
- Portability
Cons
- Clothes wrinkle if not removed when cycle finishes
- Clothes feel damp at end of cycle
- Small load capacity
- Condensation drying takes longer than forced air drying
What to Consider When Shopping
Initial Cost
Since combo units are designed with the door on the front of the unit, the user will benefit from all of the advantages of a stand-alone front loader:
- Better cleaning performance than top-loaders
- Less detergent and water used
- However, even though everything is contained within a single unit, a combo washer and dryer is still significantly more expensive than a top-load washer and dryer set, and frequently more expensive than a front-load washer and dryer.
Energy Usage
Combo units use less water than traditional top load washing machines and condensing dryers use less energy than vented dryers. In fact, 50 to 70% less! They are also UL listed and frequently NSF certified.
Because of the portability of an all-in-one, they are only available with an electric dryer. Gas is not an option.
Convenience / Ease of Use
A washer dryer combo requires less attention during the laundry cycle than a traditional washer and dryer set. There's no need to move your laundry from the washer to the dryer since once the unit is finished washing the clothes, the unit automatically starts the drying cycle. Simply start your load and in one long cycle the combo will both wash and dry your laundry.
However, washer/dryer combos share the same challenge as front-load washers, in that they may be physically difficult to use, especially if you have back problems. It's necessary to bend down to access the laundry within the tub. However, if vertical space allows, the unit can be placed onto a pedestal which will not only raise the combo unit, but also provide additional storage space beneath. When selecting a pedestal always be careful to find one that fits your specific unit.
From a day-to-day maintenance standpoint, it's important to remember that combo units aren't immune to mildew and mold problems. Since they share the same design as a front-load washer and the drying process creates a humid, moist environment, after a load finishes, it's critical to wipe down the gaskets and interior of the tub in order to prevent mildew growth.
Many users find them easier to operate because they don't offer as many cycle options as an individual front-load washer and dryer, and one of the conveniences is that a combo unit can be connected to a sink with the use of a snap coupling to provide it's water supply.
Although, both the washer and dryer cycle can be run separately. If you only want to dry your clothes, you don't need to use the washer first (and the reverse is true).
Capacity
Compared to a stand alone washer and dryer, combo models have a smaller load capacity. It's extremely important to note that the capacity of the unit when washing clothes will always be larger than the drying capacity. The drum should only be half full in order to run a full wash and dry laundry cycle.
The amount of laundry that can be done at any one time varies depending on the size of the unit. However, the average combo is able to wash between 13 to 15 pounds of laundry, yet it can only dry between 7 to 9 pounds.
However, there are workarounds since the unit is capable of washing larger loads. One method is to run a full wash load and then remove half of the clothing so that it can be air dried. Many users purchase a drying rack, which are inexpensive and fold away when not in use.
Home Design
This is the number one reason people choose a washer dryer combo. Many apartments, condos and other small living spacings simply don't have the floor space to accommodate a traditional washer and dryer - even if they are stacked. When space is an issue, the combo unit can be a life saver and keep you from spending hours in a laundromat.
Not only are these units frequently designed to fit under a standard height countertop, if outfitted with an optional portability kit they can even be rolled out of the way when not in use! Just be sure to purchase castors that accommodate your model.
What Makes a Combo Washer and Dryer a Great Fit
- Compact :Combos are capable of squeezing into spaces where 2 separate units won't fit. Both horizontally and vertically.
- Portability: Many combo models are designed with the option for wheels, which allow the unit to be moved from one location to another.
- Weight :If you are concerned about the amount of weight your appliances place on your flooring and structure, a combo unit can really shine in solving this problem. The weight of a combo unit is roughly the same as a traditional washing machine (without the separate dryer).
- Venting :Washer/dryer combos don't require an outside vent since they use a condensation based ventless drying process.
- Electrical :No special wiring is necessary. Combo units are designed to plug directly into a standard 120v electrical outlet.
Reliability
This is an area of controversy. We've found that people either love their combos or hate them, there really isn't much middle ground.
Since there's only one unit to maintain and repair, in many cases there's less opportunities for breakdowns. Still the technology is different and many feel they are extremely likely to require more professional repairs. Yet, others have found them to be quite reliable.
We recommend doing a little upfront research on the repairability of the specific brand and model before making a buying decision. You want to know if parts will be available a few years down the road. Many lesser known and some very popular brands, don't carry parts for their models beyond a year or two.
Consumer reports credits LG as manufacturing very reliable products, and in addition they also have a reputation of having parts available for older models.
Performance
Since combo units use condensation drying, which is very different from traditional dryers, a frequent complaint is that the laundry is damp at the end of the dry cycle. But this is actually just a byproduct of the drying method since the dryer is humid. Simply remove your clothes one item at a time while giving them a quick shake. Within a few seconds they should feel dry.
Also, once the dryer has completed it's cycle, it's important to remove your laundry to prevent it from wrinkling. Since the air inside the drum is humid, when the dry cycle finishes it will cause your clothes to wrinkle.
However, one of the benefits of condensation drying is that it is much easier on your clothing. Traditional dryers place a lot of wear and tear on clothing.
Time
Since condensation dryers take longer than traditional dryers, your overall load time will also be longer. This is probably the biggest adjustment people have to transitioning to a washer dryer combo.
To make matters worse, you won't be able to run a load of laundry in the washer at the same time you're drying. This is where separate units can really speed up the process, and this limitation only further magnifies the amount of time necessary to finish your laundry.
Not only is each load of laundry going to take longer to complete, but you're also limited to running smaller loads.
Why Do Combo Washer and Dryers Take So Long to Dry?
- Since all-in-one washer and dryers use 120 volts of electricity they just don't have the energy to deliver the same amount of heat as a 240 volt dryer.
- The condensation drying process simply takes longer than traditional forced hot air drying that requires outdoor venting.
- Traditional dryers require large drums that allow the clothes to freely tumble. But condensation drying needs enough air space for moisture to dissipate from your clothing, which means smaller loads. A combo can always wash more than it can dry at any one given time.
How to Select an All-in-One Washer and Dryer?
If you've determined that an all-in-one washer and dryer is the right appliance for your household, here are a few things to consider when selecting a model.
Size Capacity
The fact that combo washer and dryers are designed to fit into tight spaces is often a major selling point. Unfortunately, the smaller load size capacity and longer drying times is frequently a hinderance.
It's true, combo appliances aren't capable of handling the same large loads of laundry that an individual washer and dryer set can. However, if space is in short supply, a combo can get the job done while preventing long hours at a laundromat.
All-in-one washers and dryers can be found with load capacity's as small as 1.6 cu. ft. But the most common size, with the largest selection to choose from, has a load capacity of 2.3 cu. ft. This size can generally accommodate the laundry for 1 to 2 people.
If you have a household that generates a lot of laundry, the 4.3 cu. ft. size should meet your needs. Without a doubt they are more expensive, but they're also more powerful and designed with additional bells and whistles.
We suggest when selecting a combo washer and dryer that you purchase the largest capacity that fits within your allotted space that your budget will allow.
Built-in Water Heater
Some washer and dryer combos offer built-in water heaters which will allow for additional washing options, such as steam-cleaning and an extra-hot wash temperature setting.
With a built-in water heater, the appliance will be able to achieve higher temperatures at a faster rate, and with the additional washing settings you'll have the ability to sanitize your laundry.
Spin Speed
A high spin speed will ultimately result in shorter drying times. This is because your clothes will be dryer when the drying cycle begins.
A high spin speed results in more water being wicked from the laundry.
Power
Nearly all of the combo washer and dryers are designed to run on 120v, which is a standard electrical outlet. This is one of the main benefits that allows the appliance to be so portable, it can literally plug into any standard outlet.
Some manufacturers are building larger units that utilize 220v of power. Although, this is a relatively new option, it is worth considering. Keep in mind, that you may need to hire a electrician and you'll lose the benefit of portability.
Dryer
The majority of combos are manufactured with a condensing dryer. However, there are a few brands, such as LG, which has come out with a heat-pump dryer, and as you might expect, the price is currently much higher.
Heat-pump dryers are able to dry clothes faster than condensing dryers. However, they still aren't as fast as a traditional dryer. Although, they are more energy efficient and use roughly 45% the amount of electricity of a traditional dryer.
Types of Dryers (and how they work)
Traditional Dryer: Air is heated and then blown into the drum chamber. The hot air absorbs the moisture from the clothing and is exhausted thru a vent outside. The vented air is full of moisture.
Condensing Dryer: Air is heated and then blown into the drum chamber. The hot air absorbs the moisture from the clothing and is pulled from the drum and cooled until the moisture condenses and collects into a tray or drained thru a hose. The cool, dry air is then heated and blown back into the drum chamber.
Heat-Pump Dryer: A heat-pump dryer has 2 coils, 1 cold and the other hot. The cold coil is used to cool the warm, moist air as it comes out of the drum and removes the moisture within the air. The hot coil is used to heat the air as it returns back into the drum.
Should You Buy a Combo Washer and Dryer?
If you have the space, we recommend purchasing separate washer and dryer appliances. They have a proven track record, are capable of handling a larger load capacity, and allow you the option of washing and drying your laundry at the same time.
With that said, in the right situation, especially if space is limited, a combo unit may be an excellent option.
There is clearly a demand for all-in-one washer and dryers, and as technology improves, their drying performance will also improve. A few manufacturers, including LG, are releasing washer and dryer combos with inverter heat-pump drying technology. This has the potential to be a real game changer since it will significantly reduce drying time.
Whirlpool is also preparing to release a new model called the Smart All-in-One Care Washer and Dryer Combo. It's rumored to offer a vented dryer connection with 240v of electrical power. Of course, this will prevent the unit from being portable, but it should still be able to fit into a tight laundry room.
Today many of the early issues that combos experienced in the past have been corrected. There's also many manufacturers, options and models to choose from. If space is an issue in your home, you should be able to find a combo to fit your lifestyle needs. However, we don't recommend trying to save space by buying a combo unit if you have the space for a washer and dryer set.