Washing machine with dryer: features, principle of operation, rating of the best models

Today, washing machines that have the useful function of drying clothes are gaining popularity. Such units vary greatly in quality, cost and functions, but each person can choose the right model based on their needs.

The drying function allows you to get perfectly clean and dry laundry in a matter of minutes, which you just need to iron and put in the closet. This saves housewives a lot of time in large families with children.

This article provides an overview of the washer dryers that are leading the market in 2020. We also offer useful tips on choosing and caring for washing machines and dryers.

How are washing machines and dryers different from regular ones?

The main difference between drying units is the presence of many additional functions that save people time and effort.In ordinary washing machines, which are found in almost every home, there are 3 washing cycles: washing the clothes itself, rinsing and spinning.

In a drying machine there is also a 4th cycle - drying. This process often starts automatically immediately after the laundry has been spun in the drum. Warm air, heated by a special heating element, enters the drum with laundry, and the condensate is either drained through a hose into the sewer or collected in a container intended for it.

In the machine, the air is heated to high temperatures by a heater, and then supplied to the laundry using a fan. At the same time, the drum rotates so that things are dried evenly.

It is important to understand that drying machines consume excess electricity, so when purchasing such units you should pay attention to the energy consumption class. It is better to buy those washing mashines that are marked “A” or “A+”. Although class “B” is also good for saving the family budget.

Experts highlight the following useful features of machines with a clothes drying function:

capacity and versatility of units;
significant space saving in the house;
saving time on washing and drying clothes;
sufficient selection of drying programs;
modern design and durability of machines;
affordable price.

How a washing machine and dryer works

Earlier models of washing machines used a timer for the drying process. This was not very convenient, because the laundry was often over-dried or under-dried, since it is difficult to calculate in advance how long things of different weights and materials will dry.

Modern units have humidity sensors, and now you can set in advance the value to which the machine will dry the laundry.In order not to bother with percentage numbers, manufacturers simply write the drying level on the washing machine: “For iron”, “Gentle drying”, “For cabinet” and so on. The consumer himself chooses what kind of laundry he will take out of the machine - slightly damp or completely dry.

The technical structure of modern drying machines is simple:

heating element (heating element);
electric fan and air duct;
drum with special blades;
condensate container;
humidity sensors.

The heating element heats the air, which is supplied to the laundry with the help of a powerful fan. The washed items are mixed evenly in the drum, and the hot air dries them quite quickly. It is important to choose a loading volume that is not too large so that things dry faster. You can also sort clothes and underwear by fabric quality - synthetics will dry faster.

There are different types of washing machines available in the market. Some still use a timer to control drying in the same old-fashioned way, while more expensive models are equipped with humidity sensors, with which you can monitor the quality of drying things. Machines with sensors are more convenient, since the user is always confident that the item will not be overdried and can be easily ironed.

What modes of drying clothes are there?

Depending on the cost of the unit, various laundry drying systems are used. In budget machines, a person sets the drying time and hopes that the item will be dried the way he needs. True, it is almost impossible to guess exactly, so it is better to prefer those washing machines that have humidity sensors installed.

More expensive washing machines have the following drying modes:

intensive drying - used mainly for bed linen and interior fabrics (curtains, chair covers, blankets, rugs, etc.);
gentle - suitable for delicate linen and clothing made from mechanically sensitive fabrics;
for ironing - the laundry is slightly damp so that it can be ironed easily;
temporary - the user sets the drying time himself;
smart drying, or “smart drying” - the machine dries things at a certain temperature and humidity, available in expensive models;
for the closet - linen and clothes are dried until the item is completely free of moisture, so that it can be sent directly to the closet for storage;
refreshing - removing residual odors from laundry detergents;
dry wash is the longest program, during which the laundry is cleaned without water and even sterilized.

Try not to use “intense” drying for delicate items made from thin, natural fabrics. Too hot air can deform them. At the same time, gentle drying will last longer, but the items will last for more than one year.

You should also understand that the “Refresh” mode only applies to items that are not too dirty. If there are stains, then this mode will not work.

Which brand of washing machine and dryer should I choose?

Most users prefer washing machines from European manufacturers, believing that they are of better quality and will last longer than domestic brands.

But there are also consumers who primarily look for a product based on the presence of certain functions, or they simply like the design.

Let's look at the 9 most famous brands of washing machines from foreign manufacturers and find out why they are good:

LG is the most famous manufacturer of equipment and electronics from South Korea. LG factories are located in 6 countries. This brand has about 40 subsidiaries that are engaged in both production and sales of the company's products.The manufacturer has long been known for the build quality of its equipment, so it can be safely recommended for purchase.
Electrolux is a famous Swedish concern that has been producing home appliances of excellent quality for many decades. Many buyers specifically look for products from this brand because they are reliable and have a modern design.
Candy - everyone has seen advertisements for washing machines from this Italian brand. By the way, there is a Candy factory in Russia - it’s nice when you can buy goods produced by the hands of compatriots.
Weissgauff is one of the oldest brands of home appliances, originally from Germany. It was founded in 1932 and since then has been producing equipment for public consumption, based on quality and customer care. Since 2013, Weissgauff equipment can be purchased in Russia.
Bosch has been producing high-quality appliances and electronics for home consumption since its founding in 1886. In Russia you can buy any products from this manufacturer at a variety of prices - from budget to premium segment.
Samsung is an almost legendary corporation from South Korea. It has long been focused on the European and Russian markets and knows the needs of customers. Samsung produces washing machines of various models directly in Russia, so the buyer does not have to wait long for an order from abroad.
Hotpoint-Ariston – founded in 1905 in the USA. Ariston washing machines are popular not only in America, but also in Russia, as they combine quality and affordable price. The manufacturer is constantly improving its technology, receiving many awards at professional competitions.
Indesit is an Italian brand known in Russia and the CIS.Together with the Whirlpool brand, it produces high-quality appliances for the home and family.
AEG is a German brand whose motto is build quality and fair price. Together with the Swedish concern Electrolux produces household appliances of various classes for any wallet and needs.

It is perhaps difficult to recommend a specific brand or model of washing machine, since each buyer has his own needs. Families with children should pay attention to models from Ariston and Samsung. These machines are capable of drying 6 kg of laundry in one wash cycle - this is an excellent achievement!

For bachelors and small families, budget and oversized models from VEKO or Candy are suitable. Just consider the set of basic and additional functions.

If you want quality, aesthetics in design and long service life of the machine, then equipment from Miele or Siemens is perfect. By the way, appliances from the German brand Miele have been in service for more than 25 years - this means consistent quality and care for every customer.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Washer Dryers

Any good washer and dryer should not damage even delicate fabrics. In addition, after drying, items should be easy to iron. There are special drying machines that do not wash, but only dry laundry and clothes. Are they worth buying? This is up to consumers to decide.

Of course, drying units can use different drying modes for different fabrics and items, but they have a huge disadvantage - they take up space. Often their dimensions are comparable to a regular washing machine, which makes them difficult to install in a home that already has little space.

Most modern washing machines and dryers also have more than one drying mode, which is why buyers prefer to buy them rather than separate dryers.

The advantages of washing machines with dryers include the following facts:

washing speed — you no longer have to wait for hours while the machine washes and dries your laundry;
versatility and practicality — the machine not only dries, but also efficiently disinfects and washes things;
you can wash not only clothes and linen in the washing machine, but also toys, shoes, and interior items made of fabrics;
there will be no excess humidity in the apartment, because the laundry will dry right in the machine, and not in the kitchen or on the balcony. Humidity provokes fungus and harmful allergies, so it is so important to use a machine with a dryer, especially in families with small children;
space saving — a washing machine with a dryer takes up little space and does not spoil the design of the room.

But such washing machines also have disadvantages:

increased energy consumption — heating the heating element will require more energy than with regular washing, so you need to be prepared for increasing electricity bills; some budget models are not able to dry all the washed laundry in one cycle, so you will have to load it for drying twice;
if there is no special program for delicate fabrics, then drying in normal modes can damage clothes made of thin cotton, silk or with fur trim;
a high-quality machine with a dryer costs significantly more than a regular washing machine, but there is no point in spending money on a cheap machine, since it will quickly become unusable.
Many consumers think that machines with a dryer will break down sooner than regular ones. In fact, everything depends on the build quality and the final price of the unit - the more expensive the machine, the more durable it is. In addition, some people overload the machine, and it cannot withstand such a load.washing speed - you no longer have to wait for hours while the machine washes and dries your clothes;

versatility and practicality - the machine not only dries, but also efficiently disinfects and washes things;

in the washing machine you can wash not only clothes and linen, but also toys, shoes, and interior items made from fabrics;

there will be no excess humidity in the apartment, because the laundry will dry right in the washing mashine, and not in the kitchen or balcony. Humidity provokes fungus and harmful allergies, which is why it is so important to use a drying machine, especially in families with small children;

space saving - a washing machine with dryer takes up little space and does not spoil the design of the room.
But such washing machines also have disadvantages:

increased energy consumption - heating the heating element will require more energy than during regular washing, so you need to be prepared for increasing electricity bills;

some budget models are not capable of drying all washed laundry in one cycle, so you will have to load it twice for drying;

If there is no special program for delicate fabrics, then drying under normal conditions can damage clothes made of thin cotton, silk or fur trim;

A high-quality machine with dryer costs significantly more than a regular washing machine, but there is no point in spending money on a cheap machine, as it will quickly become unusable.

Many consumers think that drying machines are more likely to break down than regular ones. In fact, it all depends on the build quality and the final price of the unit - the more expensive the machine, the more durable it is. In addition, some people overload the machine and it cannot withstand such a load. If you treat the unit with care and strictly follow the operating instructions, there will be no problems.
Criteria for selecting washing machines and dryers
Before purchasing, you should know that all washing machines with a drying function can be divided into two groups:

with timed drying;

with drying based on residual moisture in clothes or linen.
Let's take a closer look at both options, their advantages and disadvantages.
If drying occurs by time, then the consumer can set the time for which the machine will have to dry things. Typically this time ranges from 25 minutes to 3 hours. Of course, on the machine display there are tips from the manufacturer with the name of each type of fabric for drying, but very often this time is approximate, and things can either remain damp or be too dry and wrinkled.

It should also be understood that the less weight of things is placed in the drum, the sooner they will dry. Do not put a lot of clothes or laundry in one drying cycle, otherwise it will take more than two hours.

The advantages of washing machines with timed drying are as follows:
easy control of the unit;
things are dried according to a certain regime, so they will not be spoiled;

the person knows exactly when the drying will end.

Disadvantages of timed drying machines:

it is difficult to set the exact time so that the item is not too wet or dry;
if you want to iron things with an iron, you will have to take them out a couple of times during the drying process to make sure they are in the right condition;
An overdried item will have creases and folds that even an iron with steam will have difficulty smoothing out.

Washing machines and dryers are much more convenient in terms of moisture content. They have humidity sensors that prevent the laundry from drying out. Such units have several drying modes:

for ironing - items with residual moisture, so that they can be easily ironed with a regular iron;
for a hanger - such things can be hung on hangers, and they will easily smooth out under their own weight;

for the closet - absolutely dry linen and clothes that can be put in the closet without them becoming moldy from dampness.

Special sensors in such machines monitor the level of moisture in things and very accurately dry the laundry to a specified humidity level.
Advantages of machines with humidity sensors:
clothes are perfectly dried to the desired level;
the machine itself knows when to stop drying, no checks are required;
You can load any amount of laundry allowed according to the instructions.
Disadvantages of machines with humidity sensors:
the price of such units is significantly higher than machines with timers;
The sensors will have to be cleaned periodically, which means paying a technician.

Let's consider a few more key points that will help you decide on the choice of washing machine:

Drum size and capacity. Even if you can wash up to 6 kg of laundry, you will have to leave only 3 kg when drying, otherwise the machine will not cope. Therefore, if there is a lot of things, then it is better to choose a machine with a large drum - it dries things as quickly as possible. In addition, in such a drum, clothes will not be too wrinkled. The best drum is for 4-6 kg of laundry. If the drum is small, then things will take a long time to dry - more than one hour, and this is an additional consumption of electricity.

Installation method. A built-in machine will take up much less space than one that stands separately from the furniture. This is important for small apartments.
Based on the type of loading, machines are divided into vertical and frontal. Vertical machines are more convenient, since the lid can be opened directly during washing and you can add items if you forgot something while loading.
The tank of the machine can be made of inexpensive plastic or stainless steel.The second option is more expensive and more durable.
The size and dimensions of the machine are also important. Whether to choose a narrow washing mashine or a regular one depends on the needs of the buyer. Narrow units up to 45 cm deep are convenient in small apartments and for one or two people. For a large family, it is better to choose a standard size washing mashine.
Washing programs. More expensive machines have more such programs, and they wash better. For a large family of more than 3 people, you can buy a washing machine with 12-14 washing modes.
Energy consumption. It is generally accepted that class “A” is the most economical, and this marking is indicated on the product. Class "B" is also quite good for single people or a family without children.

Additional functions. They are different, but the most popular are: protection against accidental leakage of water from the tank, protection against children, hot steam treatment and disinfection of things.

Top 10 washing machines with drying function

This review includes only the best-selling washer and dryers in 2020. Both experts and buyers took part in the selection for the rating, so this review takes into account the interests of all parties. As a result of testing, the most interesting samples of equipment were selected that meet all the parameters important to consumers. The review of the machines was compiled based on the following criteria:

Energy consumption;

unit sizes;

set of functions;
spin speed and amount of laundry load in kg;
comfort of use and safety;
operating noise and machine design.
Prices were also taken into account so that buyers could determine the product they needed. Through extensive research, experts have selected the 10 best and highest quality washer dryers.
1. Samsung WD80K5410OS
Air watch technology helps rid your belongings of germs.A jet of hot air perfectly destroys all known bacteria and viruses, which is important for families with children. A ceramic heating element does not spoil things with rust, lasts longer and heats up faster than a regular one. The Diamond drum is equipped with a cleaning function, which saves housewives time and extends the life of the machine.
You can choose the washing and drying temperature. There is also a special mode for soaking things and washing various fabrics. There is a special rinsing mode that does not damage things. The washing process can be easily controlled from a regular smartphone.
Important machine characteristics:
touch control;
front loading;
8 kg - washing load;

6 kg - drying load;

weight - 72 kg;

digital display;

working size: 60x60x85 cm;
class - A;
spin mode - 1400 rpm;
noise level - up to 54 dB;
14 washing programs and other functions;
price - from 53,000 rubles.
2. Indesit XWDA 751680X W
An amazingly simple and powerful unit is suitable for any family for different types of washing. The machine is protected from leaks and breakdowns due to increased foaming. You can regulate the loading of water, laundry, and detergents. A removable cover on the outer panel will help ensure comfortable operation of the unit.
Main characteristics:
attractive design;

7 kg - load volume when washing;

5 kg - load volume when drying clothes;

class - A;

1600 rpm spin;
noise level - up to 76 dB;
working size: 60x85x54 cm;
weight - 66 kg;
12 washing programs;
price - 42,000 rubles.
3. Siemens WD 14H442
Washing machine of recognized quality. The Aquastop system prevents water leaks, and advanced technologies successfully control the moisture level of things.

Main characteristics:

full size, normal dimensions;

7 kg - load for washing;

4 kg – drying load;
16 washing programs;
1400 rpm in spin mode;
dimensions: 85x60x59 cm;
class - B;
cost - 106,000 rubles.
4. LG F-12U2HDM1N
One of the best washing machines that will save washing and drying time. Takes up little space and is suitable for any living space. Has 6 special gentle washing and drying modes. Able to wash items with both light and heavy soiling. TakeOn technology allows you to synchronize the machine with your smartphone and control the washing process from a distance. With this machine, you can start washing while you are far from home, and by the time you arrive, your clothes will be dry.
Main technical parameters:
stands alone, not built-in;
1200 rpm spin;
fully electronic control;

size: 60x45x85 cm;

weight - 64 kg;

14 washing programs;

7 kg - washing load;

4 kg - weight of laundry when drying;
class - B;
noise level - 55 dB;
LED display;
price - 39,000 rubles.
5. Electrolux EWW 51696 SWD
The Dual system will allow you to wash and dry delicate fabrics carefully and without damaging them. It is possible to treat items with steam for disinfection. There is also a function to remove unpleasant odors.
The minimum time for a full cycle - from washing to drying - is only 60 minutes, which is noticeably lower than that of competitors in the same price category. The intelligent Time Manager system will allow you not to worry about drying time; things will always be ready on time. The built-in Optisence function will automatically determine the washing and drying time based on the specified parameters and the weight of the items. Water consumption is economical.

Basic device parameters:

9 kg - load for washing;

6 kg - drying;

13 washing programs;
class - A;
size: 60x60x85 cm;
stainless steel tank;
1600 rpm during spin;
price - 61,000 rubles.
6. Vestfrost VFWD 1260 W
The smart Ecologik program installed in this model controls the loading of laundry and the use of detergents for washing. All washing and drying modes can be configured separately for each parameter. The delayed wash function will help those who are too busy. There is a mode for refreshing linen and things.
Main characteristics of the device:
not built-in;
7 kg - washing;

5 kg - drying clothes;

digital display;

size: 60x58x85 cm;

total weight - 78 kg;
1200 rpm spin mode;
class - A;
15 work programs;
tank made of high-quality plastic;
price - 50,000 rubles.
7. Schaub Lorenz SLW TW7231
This Turkish-made washing machine will delight you with the quality of washing and drying any linen and clothes. The spacious drum holds large items such as rugs, curtains or blankets. Many additional functions, such as gentle washing and disinfection of items. The Allergy system will help eliminate all germs and dust from any items. The top cover can be easily removed.
Main characteristics of the device:

washing load - 7 kg;

for drying - 5 kg;

class - B;

1200 rpm spin;
dimensions: 84.5x59.7x58.2 cm;
15 washing programs;
stand-alone machine;
unit weight - 78 kg;
price - 47,000 rubles.
8. Hoover WDXOP45 385AH
An incredibly easy-to-use unit with clear controls on the façade. It washes efficiently and notifies you of the end of operating modes with special sound signals. Protection against leaks and foaming. There is a super fast wash mode in just 14 minutes.

Main parameters:

8 kg – load for washing;

5 kg - for drying;

class - B;
1300 rpm spin;
size: 66.5x60x85 cm;
stainless steel drum;
front loading;
price - 35,000 rubles.
9. Hotpoint-Ariston AQD 1070 D49

The silent operation of this model, even during the spin cycle, has won the love of consumers with small children. It is very economical and efficiently removes stains from delicate and thin fabrics. Gentle drying does not damage the clothes, which means they will last a long time. You can also wash woolen items in this machine.

Main characteristics:

front loading;

10 kg - washing;
7 kg - drying clothes;
class - A;
400 rpm spin;
dimensions: 60x60x85 cm;
price - 49,000 rubles.
10. Electrolux EWW 51685 WD
A high-quality unit can handle all types of fabrics: wool, cotton, silk, viscose, linen. You can easily wash both small items and bulky bedspreads and curtains in the machine. The inverter motor allows the machine to operate for a long time and smoothly. Several drying modes and sound signals about the end of the wash will allow you to operate the washing machine comfortably. If necessary, there is a function to stop the wash.
Characteristics:

front loading;

class - A;

dimensions: 85x60x52.2 cm;

washing load - 8 kg;
drying load - 4 kg;
1600 rpm spin;
10 washing modes;
plastic tank;
price - 50,000 rubles.
How to properly use a washing machine with drying function
For some reason, most people are sure that drying machines are extremely unreliable and break down quickly. However, it is not. According to the observations of experts and technicians from warranty stores, the service life of many washing machines and dryers is at least 10 years.But such units must be purchased from certified manufacturers and have all the documents on safety and quality.
How long your washing machine will last will depend on how well it is used. Here are some recommendations from washing machine experts:

Never load more laundry into the wash or dryer than indicated in the instructions.

Do not try to dry very large and multi-layered items, such as a down jacket or a wadded blanket, in a small drum.