Washer and Dryer
The task of laundering has been made much easier with the modern washer and dryer. The washing of dirty cloths, sheets, woolen garments, towels, curtains etc is a necessary chore but it is strenuous and time taking. The process was gradually mechanized with the invention of the washing machine and then the introduction of front load washer and stackable washer dryer models. Steam driven washing machine began to be used around 1850. By 1904, electric washing machine has been introduced in the market. Today, the functions of washing as well as drying have been combined in a single unit called the washer dryer. This is a compact machine which launders as well as dries the clothes. The first washer – dryer was developed by General Electric in 1954.
Characteristics of a Washer and Dryer
The main features are:
A washer-dryer is an electrically operated machine which combines the functions of both washing and drying the clothes.
They are compact in size and height; hence they can be stored easily.
These machines are mostly front loader type as against the top loaders of the larger washing machines. So, they utilize gravity to wash the clothes rather than an electrically driven wheel.
The average capacity of a washer – dryer combo is around 15 pounds. However, it should be noted that the capacity of the washer is greater than the dryer who generally takes only 10 pounds. So, you will have to lighten the load manually before transferring them from the washer to the dryer.
These machines are light and extremely maneuverable. Often they come equipped with wheels for greater mobility. They do not need any special ventilation system to be installed as they use condensation for drying. So, you can easily change their positions.
Washer-dryer combos come with a number of different settings and options like hand wash, silk wash, heavy wash etc. They use sensors to control the different cycles. Often they contain special features like child locks to keep the machine safe.
Things You Should Know Before Buying a Washer and Dryer
If you are living in an apartment where space is at a premium, then the washer and dryer combo will definitely be highly suitable for you.
- It requires small amount of space because of its compact design. In addition, you can wheel it from one room to another if you need because there is no need to install a ventilation system.
- Quality products like an LG washer dryer can provide substantial energy efficiency advantages over traditional appliances and washing machines.
- It uses fewer amounts of power and water to launder the clothes. So, it is more energy efficient if you are washing clothes not more than 10 pounds.
- A separate washing machine can take a larger load of clothes at one go (20 pounds) and so can a drying machine. So, if you regularly need to launder a large load of clothes, it will be more economical to get a separate washing machine and a dryer. In case of a washer and dryer, the dryer takes less load than the washer; so, you have to reduce the load manually.