Washer-Dryer Combos: Reviews

This 27-inch-wide laundry center -- consisting of a top-loading washer beneath an electric dryer -- is a good choice for those without space for a conventional washer and dryer. The washer has features similar to a basic… expandfreestanding top-loader, including nine wash cycles, four temperature options and dial controls. The dryer has a moisture sensor, important for saving energy and preventing overdrying. This laundry center requires a 240-volt dedicated outlet, allowing you to run the washer and dryer at the same time -- something you can't do with laundry centers that use a standard outlet. This laundry center is not Energy Star-rated, however. Users are generally happy with this unit's cleaning performance, capacity and noise level. On the downside, it receives many complaints about its reliability and its tendency to snag and damage buttons, zippers and drawstrings. Still, among similar laundry centers, this unit gets better scores and more feedback than others. collapse

If you're short on space, the 24-inch-wide Whirlpool LTE5243DQ is a laundry center worth considering. However, it has a small capacity -- only 1.5 cubic feet for the top-loading washer and 3.4 cubic feet for the dryer.… expandThe unit is not Energy Star-certified, and its dryer lacks a moisture sensor, which can prevent overdrying. Overall, users say the Whirlpool LTE5243DQ is a reliable if basic washer-dryer combo. It fits nicely in a closet, and most owners say that it cleans and dries well. However, some say the capacity is too small for large items like sheet sets, and a few say it's prone to becoming unbalanced. This model is also available with a gas dryer as the Whirlpool LTG5243DQ (*Est. $1,350); both have a one-year warranty. collapse

Those who have limited space and don't have a dryer vent installed might consider the LG WM3987HW, which washes and dries laundry in the same tub. It's about the same size as a regular washing machine, and the dryer… expandfunction doesn't require a vent to the outside. However, users do need a nearby sink, drain or tub for water drainage. This washer-dryer combo comes with an assortment of features, including a moisture sensor, electronic controls and an extra-hot sanitary cycle. In reviews, owners give the LG WM3987HW high marks for its washing performance, energy efficiency and easy installation. However, drying performance is less impressive because it can take several hours for laundry to dry completely, and the LG can only dry half as much laundry as it can wash. Like all washer-dryer combos, the LG WM3987HW is not available in a gas version. The warranty covers parts and labor for one year, with 10 years of coverage for the motor and lifetime for the drum. collapse