Most people think about buying a new dryer machine when they move into new accommodation and need to install a drying appliance for the first time. One of the most frequent questions that gets asked is whether I should buy a separate drying appliance or should I go for a washer dryer combo. When making a choice on which machine to go for it is important to do some prior research so that you get the best machine for the job.
Normally the capacity of a separate machine is much bigger than that of a washer dryer combo. Most separate appliances have a capacity of around 5 to 7 cubic feet which is bigger than that of a combo machine which comes in at around 3 cubic feet. The compact machines are useful though in small cottages or apartments where there is a shortage of space.
The majority of drying machines that you typically find are powered by electricity although it is quite possible to find a unit that is powered by gas. Many gas powered appliances can be more economical and cost effective in the long run.
It can be very daunting and off putting when entering a department store or showroom for the first time to look at machines. The choice of manufacturers such as Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore and GE can be very overwhelming. Therefore, a useful thing to do is an online search for the different makes on a large site such as Amazon. These will list all the different and many features, sizes and extra bonuses that come with the appliance. When going to a store it is vital to measure the space where the dryer is going to go into.
The full size machines which are useful if you have a large family are usually about 28 inches wide. If the space you have is much smaller than this then it is worth having a look at one of the more compact mini drying or mini washer dryer machines.
One of the decisions you will have to make when purchasing a machine is whether to go for a vented or non vented model. With a non vented or ventless model the hot, damp air is removed from the clothes and passed through a condenser. This produces water which collects in the machine and has to be emptied regularly. Conversely, a vented model passes this air through a pipe and out into the open air. You will, therefore, need access through a window or wall for one of these types.
You will often find that the vented appliances are cheaper than than the ventless models but they do need a way of connecting the pipe to the outside world which may be problematic. A non vented model can be placed anywhere in the house as it does not need this connection.
When making a decision on a machine the two biggest choices are whether to go for a separate or combination machine or whether to go vented or ventless. Overall you will achieve the same outcome with both machines although the combination machine can often take a little longer to do the drying job.