Are you in the market for a suitable space-saving washing machine and dryer because you have a small apartment where you count every square foot?
If this is the case, choosing a stackable washer and dryer may be the best option.
What is a Stackable Washer and Dryer?
A stacking washer and dryer is a combination of washing and a dryer. The set may be stacked to conserve floor space while taking up more vertical space than a standard machine’s regular set.
You can store items in the additional area, conserving space while also looking attractive, making them ideal for bathroom and laundry room closets. You can use them for cleaning in both residential and commercial settings.
Did you know? Since the launch of the first domestic automated washing machine in 1937 and the commercial release of the first electrically powered dryer in 1938, both laundry machines have become household favorites in industrialized nations. More than 80% of families in the United States own a washing machine.
This category is a crucial portion of the home appliances business, with global annual revenues from washing machines and dryers sales expected to approach 70 billion US dollars in the future.
In 2023, revenue in the Washing Machines category has the potential to reach USD 75.76 billion.
Over the forecast period of 2021-2030, the Global Stacked Washer & Dryer Market has the power to develop at a CAGR of 5.7%.
If you want to purchase a stackable washer and dryer, there are some factors you need to consider while buying a stackable washer and dryer.
- Size: The first thing you need to consider is the space you have. Get a tape measure and measure out the area available in your laundry room, closet, or another spot where you want to place your new appliances before you begin researching the many stackable washer and dryer sets on the market.
- Capacity: When selecting the ideal combination of laundry equipment, search for a stackable washer and dryer set with enough capacity for your typical load sizes. While they are more compact in general, a standard stacked washer has a 4-5.5 cubic feet capacity, and a standard stackable dryer has a 7-8 cubic feet capacity.
- Energy Source: Whether you choose a laundry center or a stackable set, the dryer will be either gas or electric.
Gas-powered dryers are more expensive since they require professional installation. But, in the long run, these are less expensive to run.
Also, gas dryers dry clothing faster and more gently than electric dryers. All you need to do to install an electric dryer is put it into a 240V socket.
They are likewise less expensive upfront but be ready to pay a high monthly power cost.
- A front-loading washer saves water and power: Stackable types include washers that load in the front or on top of the machine. Front-loading washing machines spin quicker, extracting more water from garments and linens and reducing drying time.
- Cycles and Efficiency: The finest washers and dryers have Energy Star and CEE Tier ratings, indicating they are energy-efficient. Machines with such certificates and rankings have longer cycle durations.
But they may only function with high-efficiency detergent, which makes them more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Pros and Cons of Installing Stackable Washer and Dryer
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of buying a stackable washer and dryer for your home. Make sure to consider all of them before selecting whether or not to get one.
Pros
- They Take Up Less Space
One of the most apparent advantages of a stackable washer and dryer is the capacity to have your washing machines take up less space. Washers and drying systems with stacking capabilities are often built for smaller areas, even when sold individually.
You don’t need much floor space to fit them in because of the design, which enables them to fit in any small closet. A washer and dryer may easily fit into a closet area and be concealed away for a better aesthetic, taking up around two feet of space.
According to a report, the usual size of a stacking washer or dryer is 74-76 inches high, 23-28 inches broad, and 27-32 inches deep, with a standard-sized unit being 27 inches wide.
- Energy-Efficiency
Did you know that front-loading washers use less water than top-loading washers? Their loads are frequently lower, and they consume less water to avoid leaks.
This results in more efficient energy usage with each laundry load. Consider buying an Energy Star-certified washer and dryer for even more efficient washing.
Most significantly, conserving energy means saving money. The less electricity your washer uses, the more money you’ll save.
Remember, if you suspect your washing machines are costing you too much money on your energy account, it is a warning that something is amiss.
- Easy on Clothes:
A stacking washer has a front-load washing function, which provides a gentle spin as opposed to a top-load washer’s vigorous thrashing.
While it may take longer, this will clean your clothes more evenly since the wash and rinse cycles will be longer. You will also save time on drying because the clothes wring out better after the spin cycle.
- Easy on your Back
It may be simpler to take dry items from the unit and view what’s inside with the washer on the bottom and the dryer on the top. Less bending down might help homeowners who want to give their back a break.
With the extra room, consider installing a stand-up folding station and shelves for an additional feature.
- Flexible:
Stackable washers and dryers are versatile in that they can be rearranged in various configurations and still function accurately. They will operate either as stacked or side by side as long as you follow the installation directions of their separate manufacturers.
It is an appealing alternative if you are bored with a space’s layout and decor and enjoy rearranging and styling the inside of a room regularly.
Cons:
- Limited Loading Capacity:
Stackable washers and dryers save space, but these machines have a lower loading capacity than other laundry machines.
You will take extra time with your washing since you will fill the washer with smaller loads a bunch of times. It makes it unsuitable for a large family.
There is also the option of obtaining a larger stackable washer, but this comes with a considerable cost.
- Expensive:
A simple stackable unit might cost anywhere from $750 to $2,400. Its costs are significantly higher than top load units, which range from $275 to $459.
For some households, the space and energy savings from a high-quality compact washer are well worth the expenditure.
Tip: While stacked washers and dryers are initially more expensive, they are more cost-effective in the long term since they conserve water and energy, resulting in a lower monthly utility bill.
- Out of Reach:
A stackable washing set is not perfect for someone a bit shorter. That’s because the dryer will be considerably higher than usual, and the knobs to switch it on will be even higher.
Some people need to put a stool near their stacked washing and dryer machines if their socks and T-shirt are just out of reach in the rear of the dryer unit.
- More Maintenance
Front-loading washers are different from top-loaders. While mold, mildew, and soap scum accumulation are frequent in all washers.
There are crannies and nooks in a front-loading machine that require special care. These include the rubber gasket, which is prone to mold growth.
After using the device, always wipe it off with a clean cloth and let it air dry. Every few months, grab a toothbrush and conduct an in-depth cleaning of the rubber components to remove any leftover molds and debris.
- Have Fewer Features:
Because stackable washers and dryers are small, consider them to have a simple functionality. Most compact machines simply offer washing and drying tasks rather than sophisticated features such as heat pump technology, steam washing, and Wi-Fi capabilities that are in more costly models.
Cost of Stackable Washer and Dryer:-
Washers and dryers that stack are expensive. A stackable washing machine and dryer will cost between $1000 and $2000. But there are more expensive choices in the $3,000 area that can handle enormous loads and have additional features.
Samsung High-Efficiency Stackable Front-Load Washer and Electric Dryer Set will cost 1396$. Maytag High-Efficiency Stackable Front Load Washer and Dryer price will cost 1649$.
Installation of a stackable washing machine and dryer costs at least $150 but can cost up to $600 or more if your house requires substantial plumbing and electrical work. Installation expenses include placing a stacking tray between the two appliances and leveling the machines.
Customize Your Home By Installing a Stackable Washer and Dryer
Investing in a stackable washer and dryer set is a fantastic method to make space for movement. You can store items in the additional area.
So it is good to research and read reviews before making any purchase to ensure that you’re purchasing high-quality machines that meet your needs. When selecting a stackable laundry, it is critical to consider factors such as energy efficiency, cost, and durability.