Built-in washing machine with dryer

Today's consumers are very demanding and demanding. They often want to get the most out of their "home helper." Perhaps it's the influence of these customers that led to the emergence of built-in washing machines with dryers. While they may seem like nothing special, it's actually quite challenging to fit a large drum, especially with a dryer, into the specific and relatively compact design of a built-in washing machine.

It's worth noting that not all manufacturers have succeeded in achieving this goal, so it's currently difficult to find washing machines with such features. In this article, we'll not only expertly evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of built-in washer-dryers but also review the best models. We hope you find this information useful!

Fully or partially built-in?

To be clear, this article will focus on built-in front-loading washing machines with a drying function. While there are some top-loading washing machines available that can be built-in, they are rare because the loading door on these "home helpers" is not designed for built-in installation.

A front-loading washing machine and dryer, on the other hand, is well suited for built-in installation. Even those models that do not have a specific front part and a removable top cover can be placed in a cabinet or under a countertop, What can we say about washing machines specially adapted for built-in installation?

Front-loading washing machines and dryers, like others, can be roughly divided into three types:

• fully built-in – having a specific front part with hinges so that doors can be hung and a recessed lower part;
• semi-built-in – models that, as a rule, have a removable top cover or some other elements indicating that the washing machine can be built into furniture;
• non-built-in – these are freestanding washing machines with large dimensions,

When creating freestanding dryers, the manufacturer did not intend for such equipment to be integrated into furniture, but this does not mean that this operation is impossible.

Advantages and disadvantages

A built-in washing machine and dryer combines two key advantages: a full laundry care cycle and compact, concealed placement of the appliance within a piece of furniture. Consumers are willing to pay a pretty penny for these advantages, but is it worth it? To understand this, we need to understand the shortcomings of technology that seems capable of satisfying even the most discerning consumer.

1. The main drawback is its technical complexity. Manufacturers tend to cram a large number of components into a relatively small housing, all located close together. This can lead to unpleasant consequences during operation, especially if the machine vibrates heavily during the spin cycle.
2. Freeing up space inside the housing by using counterweights. As a result, such machines are equipped with small and relatively lightweight counterweights, which provide little vibration dampening. Vibration, as noted above, is detrimental to all machine components.

Expensive built-in washing machines and dryers could be equipped with cast-iron counterweights; they are heavy and take up little space. However, manufacturers of such machines have not yet resorted to this practice, preferring to reduce the market price of the washing machine as much as possible.

3. During the drying program, it is advisable not to allow the washing machine body to overheat to avoid damage to temperature-sensitive parts. The walls of the furniture in which the washer-dryer model is built in interfere with the normal heat exchange of its body, which is by no means desirable, although in most cases it is not fatal.

Model overview

Well, we've finally reached the highlight of our review of built-in washing machines with dryers. If you haven't yet decided on the load type of your future "helper," but are certain you need a model with a dryer, you can check out our website's article. Top-loading washing machines with dryersThis is a comprehensive and comprehensive review that will teach you a lot about washing machines with built-in dryers, but let's get back to our review.

The Bosch WKD28540OE is an excellent example of a fully integrated front-loading and drying machine. The front panel features mounting points for both right- and left-hand hinges. The machine's features are impressive: 18 wash programs, 1400 rpm maximum drum rotation, electronic controls, a 6 kg wash and 4 kg dry load capacity, and complete leak protection. Dimensions (WxDxH) are 60 x 58 x 82 cm. The car is produced under a German brand, but is manufactured in China. This “miracle of technology” costs $1,220.

Hotpoint-Ariston CAWD1297. This model is specifically designed for people with average incomes. It has simpler features, no display, and fewer washing programs, but in terms of functionality, this washing machine is not much inferior to its Bosch counterpart. It has a 7 kg load capacity and can dry 5 kg of laundry at a time. It has a spin speed of up to 1200 rpm and is fully protected from leaks, children, and foam. According to Yandex Market users, the car is quite reliable, but its sales are low, so this data should be taken with a grain of salt. The price of the model is attractive – $635.

Kuppersbusch IWT1466.0 W. A very expensive built-in model with a drying function and mediocre performance. Buyers typically expect the highest quality from Kuppersbusch, but few can afford to pay an extra $1,500 for this quality. The drum holds 6 kg of laundry and can dry 3 kg. The drum speed is 1400 rpm. The exact dimensions are 60 x 58 x 82 cm. The price is $2,590.

Despite such an exorbitant price, the model does not have full protection against leaks, which is rather strange, given that the brand is extremely well-promoted.

Beko WDI85143. A brand-new, fully integrated washing machine, announced by the manufacturer in 2016. It boasts impressive features and a relatively low price. Its relative reliability and ease of repair are also significant advantages. Its only downside is limited leak protection, but for the price, it's worth it. Price: $680. Specifications:

• digital display and touch control;
• drum capacity 8 kg;
• spin speed 1400 rpm;
• capable of drying 5 kg of laundry at a time;
• 16 carefully selected washing programs;
• The noise level is one of the lowest among cars of this class.

Electrolux EWX147410W. Another solid built-in front-loading washer and dryer, featuring a 7 kg drum and a 4 kg dryer. A good display and smart controls make washing easy and enjoyable. You can spin things at a speed of up to 1400 rpm, which is even more than necessary under normal conditions. 14 washing programs are designed to keep you experimenting, while child-proof, foam-proof, and imbalance-proof features ensure safe operation. Dimensions: 60 x 55 x 82 cm (W x D x H). Price: approximately $825.

In conclusion, if you search the internet, you can find many models of front-loading washing machines and dryers. However, not everyone can afford them, as they are at least twice as expensive as standard models. Good luck!

   

1 reader comment

1. March 19, 2018 at 5:02 PM

   Mila:

   I saw a Hotpoint just like this one at a friend's place! It made me want to buy a built-in washing machine; I liked the look. Plus, my current one doesn't have a dryer, and I'd like one.

   Answer