When it comes to choosing the appliances for the management of the laundry, many of us are faced with a dilemma: opt for a single multifunctional device (the washing) or invest in two separate appliances (washing machine and dryer)? The answer is not simple and depends on several factors: available space, family habits, budgets and energy consumption.
Lavachiugga: two functions meet in a single appliance
The washerwork is an appliance that combines the washing and drying functions in a single appliance. Let’s see pros and cons of this solution.
Advantages of the washing
Disadvantages of the washerwork
Separate washing machine and dryer: the traditional solution
The purchase of a separate washing machine and dryer represents the most traditional solution. Let’s see what are the advantages and disadvantages of this choice.
Advantages of separate washing machine and dryer
Separate disadvantages of washing machine and dryer
Purchase cost
The price of a medium quality washer -dryer is generally around € 500 and € 1,500, depending on the characteristics and the brand. As for the separate option, a good washing machine can cost between € 300 and € 800, while a comparable quality dryer has a similar price, bringing the total investment between € 600 and € 1,600. Although the initial cost may seem similar, it must be considered that the purchase of separate appliances can be expanded over time, lightening the immediate impact on the family budget.
Energy consumption
The washerwork tends to have significantly higher energy consumption than the separate solution, especially during combined cycles. A complete cycle of washing and drying with a washerwill consumes on average 5-6 kWh, while the separate use of washing machine and dryer involves a total consumption of about 3-4.5 kWh (1-1.5 kWh for washing and 2-3 kWh for drying). Considering a cost of energy of € 0.25/kWh and a use of 200 cycles per year, the difference can translate into an annual saving of € 75-100 in favor of separate appliances.
Water consumption and duration
An often underestimated aspect is water consumption: condensing washerwill use water even during the drying phase, with a consumption that can reach 60-90 liters per complete cycle, against 40-60 liters of a traditional washing machine. This greater consumption inevitably translates into higher water bills in the long run.
As for the duration, the separate appliances tend to have a longer useful life, on average 10-12 years against the 7-8 years of the washing. This translates into a lower cushioned cost in the long run. In addition, in the event of a failure, the repair of a single appliance is generally less expensive and does not compromise the entire washing and drying process, allowing to continue using the appliance still working while the other is repaired.
Which solution to choose? It depends on your needs
The choice between washer and separate set depends mainly on your specific needs. The washerwork represents the ideal option for those who live in small apartments, where every square centimeter is precious. It is particularly suitable for single or couples who make few weekly washes and prefer the practicality of a single appliance. Those who have a limited initial budget could find the purchase of a single appliance convenient, avoiding having to simultaneously bear the expense for two appliances.
On the other hand, separate washing machine and dryer are the optimal solution for large families with high laundry needs. This configuration is recommended for those who have enough space and seek maximum energy efficiency and higher performance.
The separate appliances offer greater flexibility of use, allowing you to manage large laundry volumes in reduced times thanks to the possibility of washing and drying simultaneously. In the long run, this solution proves to be economically advantageous, despite the highest initial investment, thanks to the lower energy consumption and the longer duration of the appliances.
Tips to optimize the choice
Whatever your decision, it is essential to orient yourself towards energy class devices at or higher to contain consumption. In the case of dryers, it is worth considering the heat pump models, decidedly more efficient than condensing or evacuation technologies, although the initial cost is higher. It is important to correctly size the appliances based on real family needs: too large devices will involve energy waste, while underpinged models will force more frequent cycles.
The most recent models offer smart features that optimize consumption and improve the user experience, such as the possibility of controlling remote appliances via app. Finally, before purchasing, it is advisable to inquire about any state incentives or tax deductions available for the purchase of energy -efficient appliances, which could make the initial investment more accessible.
