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February 18, 2010

How To Install A Washer Dryer

If you are looking to moving home, whether an apartment or house, one of the first appliances you will find yourself needing is the washer dryer combo machine. These are easy to find in most department stores but are even easier to install yourself.

A common mistake when buying a new washer dryer is to fall into the trap of buying the first one you see. Do some research beforehand, particularly online. Many people end up buying a machine that has more functions than they actually need and pay richly for it. Buying a refurbished model is a great way to get a good machine and save money. Most engineers will supply a warranty with your refurbished machine for peace of mind.

Once you have purchased and had your machine delivered you will have to install it. The machine needs to be positioned where there are two water hose connections and a drainage outlet. The most common place to find these is in the kitchen and laundry room. The next step is to connect the hoses. The first is the hot water supply. Locate the hose marked in red or with a red connector and join to the hose on the machine with the same red marking.

The next step is to find the hose with the blue marking and connect it to the appliance hose with the similar blue marking. This will connect the cold water supply. It is essential not to mix these up, otherwise you may end up with colors running sue to the incorrect temperatures.

The water has to drain out somewhere, so now we need to connect up the drain hose. Simply find the hose with no connector on the end. Place this particular hose into the drainage hole in the wall which is usually near the other two hose connections. This will allow all the water to drain away into the drainage system. The next step is a little tricky and that is to balance it. Most machines have a self balancing mechanism. To set it pull the washer towards you at about thirty degrees and then let it go. When it hits the floor it will adjust itself. Make sure you read the instructions beforehand to check.

Now we need to look at the drying aspect of the machine. You will find a hole in the floor which is around three to five inches in diameter. This is the dryer vent outlet which directs the hot air and steam away from the machine. From a general hardware store you will need to buy an appropriate connector to connect the machine to this vent. Next is to simply plug in the dryer power cord and you are all set.

Overall, buying a washer dryer machine is not too difficult especially if you can get a good deal on a refurbished model. Installing them only takes a few minutes and is something you can easily do yourself.

John writes a lot of reviews on all the washer dryer combo machines available and articles about washer dryer combos.

Filed under Kitchen Appliances by John Pederson

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February 3, 2010

Facts About Washer Dryer Combo Machines

The washer dryer combo is a new machine to many people. It is an appliance that allows you to take all your dirty clothes, put them in the machine and then remove lovely clean dry clothes. There is no taking damp clothes out of one machine and placing them into another. The machine both washes and drys, all in the same machine. They are a superb appliance but do have some disadvantages.

If washing and drying your clothes means heading out to a laundry of going down to the basement through long dark corridors then a washer dryer may be the ideal solution for you. They are usually the same size as a normal washing machine and sometime come on wheels. They can, therefore, be stored quite simply. Set up usually involves connecting to the cold water faucet and a drain.

Most washer dryer combos are ventless meaning they do not require any venting or ducting. They are also energy efficient, with good energy star rating. They will, therefore, be more economical than standard separate washing and drying machines. As you can see, there are a number of advantages, but it is still worth considering some of the disadvantages prior to purchasing.

A washer dryer is usually more suitable for people whom have smaller wash loads such as single people, students and couples. The reason being that you need to leave room in the machine for the clothes to move about whilst they are drying. Also the drying cycle will take longer than a dedicated drying machine. If the clothes are packed in, they will come out creased and you will be left with a lot of ironing to do later.

Washer dryers tend to work under very specific circumstances. The drain, attached to the machine, must be of a certain height to prevent any leaking and it is best to position the machine on a concrete surface or hard surface so that it runs smoothly. I would advise measuring the height of your drain prior to purchase.

Repairs are also worth considering as these are new appliances you will not find many engineers who are able to repair them. A good place to look is the manufacturers website where they will often have a list of local repair people. Also at around a thousand dollars these machines are expensive but cheaper than their separate counterparts. You will also, however, save money on their increased efficiency.

David writes reviews about new washer dryer combos appliances and looks at the best cheap stackable washer dryer combo appliances.

Filed under Kitchen Appliances by David Redmond

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December 30, 2009

How To Find The Right Washing Machine

The washing machine performs a vital role in the home and for many is a large investment. Therefore it is important to choose a machine wisely. It is, therefore, important to do thorough research before buying your machine in order to get one that fulfills all your needs and requirements. The same goes for the washer and dryer combo where the range is often greater and often more confusing.

The variety of washing machines on offer in a store can be quite overwhelming and make choosing difficult. It is also easy to be persuaded into buying a less than satisfactory machine. It is important to think about the following points when looking for a washing machine:

Drum Capacity: This will largely depend on your family size. The larger the number the larger the drum you will need. You will be able to wash less with a larger machine which may result in greater savings in the long run.

Machine Effectiveness: Buying an appliance that washes efficiently is probably one of the most important considerations. Having a shortlist of models and doing online research before going the showroom is a surefire way to making sure you get a machine that works as you want.

Efficiency: From a financial and environmental viewpoint this is a very important consideration. great monetary and energy savings can be made by taking note of the efficiency rating of the appliance. A higher rating can lead to greater savings.

Additional Factors: Many appliances come with some additional options such as an incorporated dryer, as in the washer dryer appliance or mini washing and drying machine or a self balancer. Some appliances are now equipped with internet connection capability. These amazing appliances can be programmed with alternative wash cycles by downloading from the internet.

Researching all the options is the next task in acquiring a good appliance or washer dryer combo. Looking on the internet is probably the best and quickest way to research your new appliance. On appliance review websites it is often the disgruntled customers who leave, often negative, opinions. The more that customers have left comments the more likely you will find a balanced opinion. Writing a shortlist of around 5 appliances is probably optimal. More than this on your wishlist will usually lead to confusion when you go to purchase. The list will help you stay focused on the machine you want and you will be less inclined to be persuaded into purchasing one that does not meet your requirements.

Ian writes a lot of review articles on the washer dryer combo machines and likes to write about washer dryer combo machines on the internet.

Filed under Kitchen Appliances by Ian Brawn

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October 17, 2009

Why A Mini Washer Dryer Makes Sense In The Home

If you live within a very small-scale place such as a flat, bungalow, cabin or yet a boat and you are curious with regards your washing and drying options then you might prefer to consider a mini washing machine and dryer combination. Where space is critical or minimal these appliances are ideal. They call for very little cleaning and care and therefore are fashionable with retirees. They are also very popular with students living in flats and dormitories..

Separate units tend to use a lot of energy compared to the washing machine and dryer combo units making them an environmentally sound alternative. This likewise makes them ideal if you are on a lower living budget.

Another factor that also makes a saving on the pocket is the fact that these machines are generally cheaper to buy in the first place. Another area of saving is with water, which helps the environment and also, if you are on a water meter saves you cash. For those living aboard boats or in remote areas, this feature makes them particularly attractive. Self sufficient types can easily run these machines from an underground bore water supply and from self generated electricity.

Do not be fooled by their humble sizing though. They work very efficiently and are up to most tasks of their separate cousins. The mini combo washer dryer machines certainly pack a punch. These types of appliances have become best-selling within Europe and Asia for a lot of years where room is much more of a premium.

You will not find as many of these appliances in your local department or appliance store. Therefore, it is worth taking a look on line on sites such as Amazon or Yahoo Shopping to get a good idea of the choices available. On line shops will often provide you with the opportunity of getting a better deal.

Do your research on line beforehand, if you decide to purchase from a conventional store. This way you make a list of the machines you are interested in, and with the features you desire. You can be put under a lot of pressure by the salesperson in the showroom, so having a list can help alleviate this.

Craig writes articles on the subject of all in one washer dryer combo appliances and looks at washing and drying goods on the internet.

Filed under Kitchen Appliances by Craig Lane

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July 29, 2009

Water Damage in the Laundry and How to Prevent

Warm moist air is often generated by both washing and drying machines, which are usually located within the kitchen or laundry. A result, if not maintained properly is that these appliances can lead to an accumulation of water and mold formation.

There is normally a hot and cold water connection to the washing machine. Inspection needs to be carried out regularly to check for leaks. In inspection of the joints is the first step. Then check both ends of the supply and fix any leaks you come across promptly. Any filters should be removed and cleaned or replaced.

Damage to the machine could occur if any blockages form in the water supply and prevent water getting into the machine. Hard water areas are particularly susceptible to experiencing these types of problems. Any shut off valve blockages or problems need to be detected by observing for any water leaks into the machine whilst it is switched off.

If, in the unfortunate event that you do find a leak, then it is vital to replace the valve. As with most appliances that have hoses and filters, most problems arise in the hose. It is recommended to keep at least four inches between the back of the washer and the water connection. It prevents compression on the hose which could cause kinking and bursting.

If the hoses and connectors are old, then replace them. Steel braided hoses are much stronger and are a worthwhile investment. As with the water hose, the dryer is also connected to a ventilation hose which needs to be inspected regularly. This particular hose must be connected to the outside through an external wall or window.

Lint can easily collect in the ventilation pipe and also under the dryer and so must be checked for on a regular basis. Short exhausts are more efficient for the dryer, so make it as short as possible.

The sink in the utility area is often a common origin of leaks. Therefore, take a look underneath to spot and problems. Any drips coming from the traps are a sign of potential problems and should be addressed immediately. Any pips that drain slowly could indicate a partially blocked drainage system.

A regularly dripping faucet should be repaired promptly. Replacement of any sink seals that are cracked or loose is vital. Damp or stained walls around the plumbing pipes indicates a leak internally that must be fixed quickly before further damage occurs. These regular maintenance measures will prevent large leaks and flooding and will save you time and expense in the long run.

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Filed under Kitchen Appliances by Frank Howarth

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July 20, 2009

Factors To Consider When Buying a New Drying Machine

When many people move into a new house, this is the time that they consider buying a new drying machine to install, often for the very first time. The choice most people have to make is whether to buy a combination washer dryer machine or go for a separate dedicated drying unit. It is important to do your research first in order to get something that suits your needs to the full.

Normally the capacity of a separate machine is much bigger than that of a washer dryer combo. Most separate appliances have a capacity of around 5 to 7 cubic feet which is bigger than that of a combo machine which comes in at around 3 cubic feet. The compact machines are useful though in small cottages or apartments where there is a shortage of space.

Many drying machines you find are powered by electricity, but it is possible to find appliances that are actually powered by gas which can work out very cost effective in the long run.

It can be very daunting and off putting when entering a department store or showroom for the first time to look at machines. The choice of manufacturers such as Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore and GE can be very overwhelming. Therefore, a useful thing to do is an online search for the different makes on a large site such as Amazon. These will list all the different and many features, sizes and extra bonuses that come with the appliance. When going to a store it is vital to measure the space where the dryer is going to go into.

If you have a lot of washing or have a large family then it is worthwhile considering one of the larger, full size machines which are usually about 28 inches wide. If the amount of space you have to install a machine is quite small, then a mini dryer or mini washer dryer might fit the space nicely.

One of the decisions you will have to make when purchasing a machine is whether to go for a vented or non vented model. With a non vented or ventless model the hot, damp air is removed from the clothes and passed through a condenser. This produces water which collects in the machine and has to be emptied regularly. Conversely, a vented model passes this air through a pipe and out into the open air. You will, therefore, need access through a window or wall for one of these types.

The vented machines tend to be cheaper than the ventless models, which require regular emptying, although they do require a way of connecting to the outside which may be a problem in some residences. A ventless model can be placed anywhere in the house so doesn’t need to be near a window or outside wall which is good for a basement laundry.

When making a choice there are basically two decisions to make: whether to go for a single dryer unit or go for the combo appliance; and whether to buy a vented or ventless model. One last point of note is that both machines will achieve the same outcome of dry clean clothes but you will find the washer dryer combo will take a little longer to do it.

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Filed under Kitchen Appliances by James Ryan

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July 11, 2009

Why The Washer Dryer Combo Is Increasing In Popularity

Stackable washing machine and dryer units usually have the washer on the bottom and a dryer at the top. It necessitates users to physically move clothes from the washing machine to the dryer between the washing cycles. An all-in-one unit is a lot smaller, doing both laundering and drying out cycles within the same machine.

These combination appliances are great for areas where space is a premium. As both the washer and dryer are located within the single machine they require much less room than two machines sat side by side or stacked on top of each other.

Appliances come either as vented or ventless. With a vented machine the dryer exhaust outflow must be connected through the ceiling vent-hole already in-situ within the bathroom or laundry if that’s where you intend to put your machine. A lot of kitchens also have vents to allow connection of your appliance.

Ventless condensing machines dry from within the drum itself and so the water that’s pulled out from the clothes run out through the drum and out of the appliance via a pump into a collection tray which can be removed and emptied. The drying cycle takes a longer time than conventional drying machine with a vented appliance.

Items of clothing are normally loaded into the top of the appliance and is covered by a locking hinged lid. During the washing phase, the garments are drawn towards the centre of the drum and down into the machine. At the centre the clothes are further agitated with central paddles.

After the washing cycle has finished, the clothes can be removed, as normal and hung up to dry. If you prefer, you can set the machine to dry and it will usually go onto the drying cycle automatically after the wash has finished.

Dryers can cost anywhere from two hundred to fifteen hundred dollars depending on the size of the machine. Any clothing and additional garments do not need washing in one machine and then being transferred to another separate machine.

These appliances are very popular in commercial launderettes as the combo machine takes up the space of two machines which allows more machines to be installed in the business. It does take longer, anywhere from one to four hours to extract clean dry clothes. Using two separate machines does make the whole process quicker though.

It is worth remembering that an alternative to a combo appliance or a separate dryer is the good old conventional drying rack or clothes horse, which can be very effective and cost efficient. They can be quite easy to build also, and you can be quite imaginative in its design.

Drying out cabinets are a new addition to some laundry rooms. These allow clothes racks to be placed inside or clothes can be hung up inside. They are particularly good if you have clothes that cannot be placed inside a drying machine. The rack can be removed, folded and stored away for later use.

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Filed under Kitchen Appliances by Dave Waters

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