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Integrated Washing Machine Tumble Dryer

Integrated washers and tumble dryers are ideal for homes with an open-plan layout or a small space. They combine both appliances into one sleek unit. However, they are somewhat less efficient and generally have lower capacities for load as compared to freestanding units.

Smart integrated washer dryers can come with handy functions like timer delays, that allow you to make the most of off-peak electricity prices. How do they compare with other washing machines?

1. Aesthetics

The washing machine is an appliance that is constantly evolving, changing our daily chores into something smart and efficient. If you’re looking to make your laundry routine as simple as it can be while maintaining the Feng Shui in your kitchen, an integrated washer-dryer may be the best choice for you.

These integrated units are designed to fit into custom-built cabinet space and hidden behind a matching door to the decor. They provide an elegant, sleek alternative to freestanding models which can sometimes look out-of-place in modern homes. Numerous manufacturers are making models that have a beautiful exterior that matches their kitchen cabinets.

For instance, Bosch’s new integrated washing machine comes with a choice of elegant stainless steel finishes that match any kitchen. Additionally, Siemens offers a range of graphite grey and white models that can easily blend into your interior design and black finishes that are both fashionable and modern.

When shopping for an integrated washer there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you’ll want to take into consideration the size of your space and the amount of laundry you normally wash. Integrated washer-dryers tend to have smaller drum capacities than freestanding machines, so you may need to wash two batches. Second, the integrated dryer feature is usually not as powerful as its counterpart for the washer. If you have limited space, you might need to consider this.

Luckily, most models boast the same functions as their freestanding counterparts. This means that you’ll be able to take advantage of the benefits of programs to alter your fabrics, Eco settings that help save both money and energy as well as a quick wash option and anti-stain technology that will eliminate most stains without the need to treat them prior to.

Something to keep in mind is that integrated machines can be more difficult to repair than standalone counterparts, which is why it’s best to go for a top-rated model with an established reputation. Also, if you’re planning to move in the near future, then a freestanding machine is probably the better choice since they are easier to remove and replace.

2. Energy efficiency

If you’re in the market for a washer with an integrated tumble dryer, it’s important to think about the energy efficiency of the new appliance. This is because an integrated washer-dryer uses both a washer and a dryer, so it’s more energy-intensive than a standalone model.

You can save space and time by having both washer and dryer in one place. You won’t need to wait until your clothes are dry before starting another wash. If you don’t have the space for both appliances in your kitchen or utility space, a freestanding tumble dryer could be a better choice.

When choosing an integrated washer, it is important to be aware of its energy consumption and its sound level. The energy label on a product will tell you how much energy it uses for each cycle of drying and washing and washersanddryers its annual consumption for 200 complete drying and wash cycles. It will also tell you about its class (from A – G) which is related to the washing performance.

The best tumble dryers have an A rating, and our top choice from Beko boasts a remarkable drying capacity of Hoover 8kg Integrated Washing Machine – Top Performance 1400 RPM and a huge 9kg capacity for washing. It also performs well in our stain removal tests, removing the majority of stains from cotton and removing 90% of stains from synthetics.

The dryer is also quiet, with a volume of only 45dB. (the sound intensity in a library). It will even tell you when your clothes are finished drying to ensure you don’t overdry them.

Certain models come with Wi-Fi connectivity, which enables you to download additional software and updates. Some manufacturers also include:

A sensor that will stop the cycle once no moisture is detected will reduce energy consumption and also, there are models that come with a delay timer for you to set a particular start time (super useful if you’re on Economy 7). You can also add an extra spin cycle to the drying process to help your clothes look less creased.

3. Space

There’s no doubt that having an integrated washer and tumble dryer can save a lot of space in your home. They combine two appliances and can be hidden behind a cabinet door to save space. It’s a great solution when you don’t have enough room for two large appliances or you want to give a more seamless appearance to your kitchen.

Fully integrated machines have a flat front, with space for cupboard door hinges and a recessed plinth on the bottom of the machine. They are designed to be placed inside a kitchen cabinet. They should not be used as a stand-alone unit since they lack the stability and support required.

They tend to be thinner and shorter than their freestanding counterparts to accommodate the gap between units. This could impact the performance of the unit as it may be unable to handle larger loads. Additionally, they usually have a smaller drums and are unable to reach higher spin speeds. This could cause more vibrations, which could affect the units or cabinets that are next to them.

Semi-integrated washing machines are similar to fully integrated models, however they only cover the lower half of the machine. The controls are still visible. It is akin to a freestanding model, and is usually more affordable than an integrated machine. These models might not be as reliable, and may not be as efficient as their fully-integrated counterparts.

It’s also worth noting that the more expensive an integrated washer dryer is, the higher quality it will be. This is because the components are of better quality and the manufacturer will have invested more money in the manufacturing process. This will translate into a machine that is more reliable and lasts longer. It is not uncommon for an integrated washing machine’s cost to be more expensive than a standalone model with similar specifications. This is due to the fact that they have to be made in a much more complex way than a stand-alone appliance to function efficiently.

4. Convenience

Combining a dryer and washer in one appliance can save space and eliminate the need for laundry rotas. And, if you’re short on time or don’t have much space to hang your clothes when they’re finished, it can be extremely practical to simply load your washing machine, then hit a button to let your clothes dried automatically for you.

There are also a variety of special functions on integrated dryers, depending on the brand. Some of these features include a stain guide which provides the best wash cycles for various types of stains. Another is a tumble-drying feature that keeps clothes in a tumble for up to 150 minutes after a cycle has ended to avoid wrinkles. Some models have Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to connect to an app on your smartphone to remotely turn on or off your machine, and even monitor the energy consumption. If you have a voice assistant, like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant you can use that to activate the controls of your device and even reorder items when they are out of stock.

Because they’re designed to fit into a kitchen unit You’ll usually find that integrated washing machines have smaller capacities than freestanding models. They are slimmer and shorter to accommodate the pipes and connections for water at the back. Furthermore, they rely on the cabinet they’re mounted to provide stability and support and should not be used without it being securely secured to the plinth underneath.

If you have young children, be sure to look for models with child locks that can be triggered using a password so that your children aren’t able to turn on the machine and change the settings! There are also a number of integrated washing machines with a lock on the door that stays locked during the washing process to protect your clothes from curious fingers. Certain models have locks that must be activated manually. This provides peace of mind when you are not there to supervise. Be aware that these locks won’t work with all units and may require additional installation work.