Every year new washing machines with different functionality appear. This could be smart diagnostics, laundry weighing, or easy ironing. The “drying” option, which occurs directly in the washing machine, has captivated many women. Next we will talk about narrow washing machines with a drying function.
Features of washing and drying machines
There are many similar models of washing machines on the household appliances market. There is standard, compact and narrow. According to surveys, the latter option is considered the most optimal in terms of space saving and convenience. As a rule, the capacity of narrow washing equipment is from 4 to 9 kg. The depth is about 45 kg, the width is 65 cm, and the height does not exceed 85 cm.
There are 2 types of clothes drying machines - with vertical and horizontal loading. The only difference between them is the way of storing things and the placement of the control panel. This does not affect the functionality. The number and nature of options is determined only by the specific model of the washing machine. Among top-loading machines, you can find a compact option, but they are quite rare. But the range of front-loading washing equipment is quite wide. Therefore, it is better to find such a unit for yourself.
How does a machine with a clothes drying function work? The process is carried out using an additional heating element.In addition to the heating element, such a machine contains a special fan. After the main washing stage, the items are steamed and straightened. To ensure that clothes dry evenly, the washing machine drum rotates slowly in different directions. The machine takes air from outside. After processing, the hot stream with steam comes out. The process is similar in principle to the operation of dishwashers.
The machine can dry in half the amount allowed when loading laundry. In many washing machines, the drying time can be set using a timer. The user determines what interval is required. There are also models of washing machines equipped with a thermometer sensor. It independently counts the required amount of time.
This option will help if the apartment does not have a balcony, and especially if the family has small children. Traditionally, modern washing and drying equipment has the following programs:
- Dry – the process occurs neatly and does not require additional ironing.
- Under the iron - ensures dryness of clothes, the process is less gentle. Additional ironing may be required.
- In the closet - the linen remains slightly damp after this treatment. Requires additional ironing before storing.
Note! The latest models of washing machines include more than 5 programs.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other appliance, a narrow washer and dryer has its advantages and disadvantages. The positive points include:
- spaciousness - small dimensions allow you to place a narrow machine with a drying function in a small bathroom;
- ergonomics - saves space for drying things and laundry;
- health care – a narrow machine eliminates excess moisture in the apartment;
- convenience – speeds up the “drying clothes and laundry” stage;
- comfort - things do not absorb third-party odors;
- upon completion of the drying process, the woman takes out linen with a pleasant aroma.
Among the disadvantages of narrow washing equipment with a drying function are the following indicators:
- quite uneconomical - a narrow machine with a drying option consumes a lot of electricity;
- it dries only half of the permissible volume - some things will simply have to be pulled out or underloaded initially;
- there is a restriction on the group of things – these include clothes made of delicate fabrics;
- high cost compared to a washing machine with the same set of functions - the price is 30-40% more;
- more complex and expensive maintenance and repair of narrow washing equipment with a drying function;
- faster wear of things.
Points to consider before purchasing a washing mashine
There are a number of points to consider before purchasing. First, pay attention to the price-quality ratio. You need to decide which washing and drying modes will be useful. After all, you will have to pay for additional programs. Perhaps only 3 functions are required, and others will not be relevant to the user.
The price also includes the maximum load for the washing machine drum. The more laundry the equipment can process at one time, the higher the cost. If the family size is more than 4 people, then it is better to choose the maximum load and not save as much as possible.
Note! Some people believe that washing equipment with a drying option breaks down faster than one that does not have this function. This is explained by the technically complex filling. Not all experts share this opinion.Basically, the reason is improper operation of the washing machine.
The most common models
Today the market offers different options for drying clothes. Each company tries to present competitive models that meet modern requirements.
Elgie presents two variants of vehicles - the F-12U2HDM1N and the FH-2A8HDM2N. F-12U2HDM1N is a modern narrow machine equipped with advanced “6 movements of care” technologies and mobile diagnostics. Has a liquid crystal touch display. The user can wash about 7 kg of laundry in the machine at a time, and dry only 4 kg. This narrow washing equipment has 5 drying programs and 14 washing programs; the user can independently set the mode. Maximum spin – 1200 rpm. Energy efficiency class – B. The machine is presented in white with a silver door.
FH-2A8HDM2N is a narrow machine with an intelligent washing system. Equipped with steam function, smart diagnostics, quick wash. The maximum spin, as in the previous model, is 1200 rpm. Available in white with a chrome door. The machine includes 12 programs for processing things and 4 for drying. Energy efficiency class – B.
Samsung WD806U2GAGD is equipped with an intelligent control option. This slim model is available in grey. It holds 8 kg, but you can only dry half of it – 4 kg. Has 10 programs, including smart diagnostics. A distinctive feature of the WD806U2GAGD washing machine is its energy efficiency. Electrical consumption class – A+. Maximum spin – 1200 rpm.
Candy GVW 264 – belongs to economy class equipment. It holds 6kg, but can only dry 4kg.Equipped with 12 laundry processing programs. This narrow washing machine is quite economical, since the energy efficiency class is A. The rotation speed during spinning is 1200 rpm and can be adjusted. Presented in white.
Ariston CAWD 129 is a high-tech narrow machine with the ability to be built-in. Presented in white. Has 13 programs for processing things and 4 for drying. Holds 7kg, dries only 5kg. Electricity consumption class - B. The rotation speed during spinning, as in the above versions of washing machines, is 1200 revolutions.
AEG L 99691 HWD is another narrow washing machine with a drying option. It is controlled using a touch screen. Equipped with 18 programs, five of which relate to drying. Available in white with a silver door. Maximum spin speed – 1400 rpm. You can wash 9kg at a time and dry 6kg.
Drying does not work - what does it mean?
Basically, breakdowns in such washing machines are associated with violation of operating rules - drying clothes in large quantities. There is a large load on the additional heating element, which performs this function. As a result, the element fails prematurely. Its repair will cost much more than the main heating element.
The most common problems with washing machines and dryers:
- malfunction of the heating element of the machine - installation of a new heating element is required;
- Thermostat failure - sensor replacement;
- fan malfunction;
- clogged machine drain hose (error code 5d);
- air duct clogging;
- broken wiring.
What to do and how to correct the situation? In most cases, you will not be able to fix the problem yourself.To identify and correct the situation, you will need the help of a specialist.
Note! In modern washing machines with a drying function, the program is interrupted and an error code is displayed..
A narrow washer and dryer is a convenient appliance for the home. It is represented on the market by LG F-12U2HDM1N and FH-2A8HDM2N, Samsung WD806U2GAGD, Candy GVW 264, Ariston CAWD 129. Along with positive characteristics, it has a number of disadvantages, including a high price and more expensive repairs in case of breakdown.
