Saving space in your home by reducing the size of the laundry area is becoming more and more popular. There are, in fact, three main selections out there and they are described as follows:
Units that can be stacked with the dryer on top - This is comprised of a full size front load washer and dryer that are identified as "stackable" and can be stacked safely with a kit that comes from the manufacturer.
Stacked washer and dryer, or laundry center - These terms represent a single unit, usually consisting of a top load washer with a front load dryer firmly attached on top. These units are typically more compact in both height and width than a full-sized set that has been stacked with a kit.
Combination unit - This illustrates one unit that washes and dries your clothing. It does not require an external venting source, and is therefore not tied to the particular location in your home or apartment that has a dryer vent.
Pros and Cons of Units That Can Be Stacked
This selection is popular among those who want the most capacity. You get the full size capacity of 3.5 to 4.5 cubic feet for the washer and 7 to 7.5 cubic feet for the dryer, meaning you don't have to do as many loads of laundry. Another advantage is that if one unit goes out before the other you can replace it separately.
The downsides of this choice are with the size and height. The height of the full size appliances can be up to 80 inches and may be too high for some to easily operate and load the dryer. Also, it may be too high for the space that is available, and depending on the unit, the width may be too wide. Those two potential shortcomings would need to be scrutinized by the consumer, however if the space can house the full-sized stacked units and the individuals would not have trouble reaching the dryer then this would be an outstanding option. The washing and drying capacity are not compromised, and there aren't limitations on features.
Pros and Cons of the Stacked Washer and Dryer, or Laundry Center
The stacked units are smaller than the stackable full size units, and therefore are excellent when you are really limited on space. The standard widths are 24 and 27 inches. Full-size units are also 27 inches wide; however the stacked models are not as tall ranging in height from 70 to 75 inches. The advantages there are that they are made specifically to fit in a small space, and they are easier load and operate controls.
Being a bit smaller can be a negative in that you lose capacity, meaning extra loads of laundry. In some circumstances though, due to space limitations you may not have a choice. In this case, you shop by dimensions and try to get the best features for the best price. Features can be another downside of the stacked units because they typically don't have all of the bells and whistles of full size units.
Pros and Cons of Combination Units
Combo units are the most compact option out there and the fact that they don't require external venting and use a standard 120 volt power supply means that you put them virtually anywhere that you have standard power and a drain, sink, or tub. Combo units can have full size capacity, although many do not. Many have some pretty impressive features such as sanitary cycles, anti-vibration systems to minimize noise, and LED control panels.
This option does have many drawbacks, and seems meant for those that, for whatever reason, don't have the option of using a full size stackable set or a stacked laundry center. They can take as long as 6 hours to wash and dry clothing. Also, there are many complaints in the reviews that the units lose their ability to dry and leave clothing damp.
All in all, what matters are your needs, and what things you must have and what things you can live without.
