washer/dryer recommendations

[jazzyman]

I am looking for a new washer/dryer for my mum. She is elderly and also partially sighted so she needs something that’s easy to operate. Unfortunately she needs a washer/dryer machine because of space limitations in her flat.

She currently has an Indeset washer/dryer but it’s rubbish there’s a problem with the conditioner compartment not working also the clothes come out on the damp side and creased.

I know washer/dryers are not very good compared to separate units but there’s no choice.

Looking for something in the £400 – 600 bracket

[Penguin45]

Re: washer/dryer recommendations

Brace yourself….. You won’t find an appliance enginner anywhere who’ll recommend a washer dryer. THIS is the sites’ position on them.

If you absolutely have to, Electrolux Group stuffs OK without getting into the bucket shop stuff. The Bosch one’s are better.

Penguin45.

[jazzyman]

Re: washer/dryer recommendations

Thanks for the information on how bad washer/dryers are. 😯

I am now considering getting her a washer and a separate tumble dryer. The only thing is that it will be very difficult to get the tumble dryer ventilated. I was looking at a Condenser Tumble Dryer and the Hoover VHC180 model seemed ok?

Are there any problems with condenser type dryers compared to a normal type tumble dryer, any comments on the Hoover VHC180 model? or is there a better model?

[iadom]

Re: washer/dryer recommendations

The Hoover is actually a Candy, not the best, they suffer from main drum shearing off at the back.

Zanussi dryers are a good mid priced option. If space is at a premium then you could consider a small compact dryer although the small condensor dryers do tend to be expensive.

Vented dryers are a little more efficient and are more reliable due to having less components to go wrong.

Jim.

[jazzyman]

Re: washer/dryer recommendations

Finally decided to go for a small compact vented tumble. Checking the local store these compact models are on offer, so which one for reliability and efficiency?

Hotpoint V3D01P= £156.93
Creda T313VW= £132.10
Creda T323VW= £126.73
White Knight WK37AW= £89.99
White Knight WK38AW= £106.73

[iadom]

Re: washer/dryer recommendations

The Hotpoint & Creda are basically the same machine.

The White Knight is made in Yorkshire and if I am not mistaken is still an entirely British company.

Not much to choose between them for reliability, they all suffer from the curse of the ‘stretchy’ belt.

To save money manufacturers have done away with the jockey pulleys that were used to keep the belt under tension. This system worked very well for 30 years or more.

Now they have ultra tight, slightly elasticated belts that put tremendous pressure on the drum bearings and the belts snap far more often.

The Hotpoint /Creda is still based on an original 25 to 30 year old Creda/Jackson design, the basic machine is quite sound apart from the belt problem.

The White Knight dryers do have rather plasticky doors but otherwise are also reasonable.

Spares prices are perfectly acceptable on both machines.

Jim.

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