Why do combo washer dryers use water to dry?

Author: Narciso Douglas  |  Last update: Saturday, June 20, 2026

Putting it simply, the heat exchanger in the condenser passes hot air through metal fins. These fins need to be cooled, which is accomplished with water instead of air as found in normal tumble dryers. On the other hand, some newer models use heat pump technology to reduce water consumption.

Why do washer dryers use water when drying?

He has a washer dryer, which DOES use water on the drying cycle! Although, it's a small amount... The dryer in a washer dryer employs a small jet of cold water to provide the means for condensing the hot humid air from the drum - ie the humid air produced by the drying cycle.

Do washer dryer combos use a lot of water?

Do washer-dryer combos use more water than traditional machines? Yes, some models use additional water during the drying cycle due to the condenser drying process. Certain models can use up to 55 gallons of water just to dry clothes.

Why do combo washer dryers take so long to dry?

The dryer takes a long time because it has to evaporate a lot of water. That takes energy and time, and they have to be careful not to overheat your clothes, since most of them will melt.

Where does the moisture go in a washer dryer combo?

Heated air is pulled into the drum, and moisture in the wet laundry evaporates. Instead of venting like a traditional dryer, the air is looped through a water-cooled condenser, where the moisture condenses into water. This water is drained out through the drain hose (same as the washer.)

How Condensation Drying Works

Why are my clothes still damp in my washer/dryer combo?

It's frustrating when your clothes come out of the dryer, still damp, and you have to run another dry cycle. But usually, this problem is caused by something simple like overloading, improper cycle selection, clogged lint filters, or venting issues.

How can I make my washer dryer combo dry better?

  1. Tip 1: stick to the maximum load capacity. If you want your laundry to be properly dry, you have to stick to the maximum load capacity. ...
  2. Tip 2: only use the non-stop cycle for a small load. ...
  3. Tip 3: spin your laundry at a high speed. ...
  4. Tip 4: use the 'extra dry' setting. ...
  5. Tip 5: keep your washer dryer combination clean.

Why aren t washer dryer combos more popular?

Drawbacks of Washer-Dryer Combos

While washer-dryer combos offer plenty of conveniences, they aren't without their limitations! Longer Cycle Times: These units can take up to four hours or more to complete an entire wash-and-dry cycle, which can be a deal-breaker for larger households with frequent laundry needs.

Do washer dryer combos really dry clothes?

They can also typically only dry half the capacity that they can wash (drying needs much more space for air to circulate than washing does, but washer dryer combos have to do both in the same sized drum).

Why does my washer dryer take 3 hours to dry?

Some of the most common reasons include overloading the dryer, power sources issues, clothes being too wet, a dirty dryer lint screen, clogged dryer vents, or possible part malfunctions. Let's get started by looking at these issues and their solutions.

What is the life expectancy of a washer/dryer combo?

On average, a well-maintained washer dryer combo can last around 10–12 years. Proper care—like using the right detergent and following the manufacturer's maintenance guidelines—can help extend its lifespan.

Why does my LG washer dryer combo keep filling with water?

If the water keeps filling, you'll know the water inlet valve didn't close. (It's most likely broken, and you'll need to replace it).

What is the downside of a washer/dryer combo?

In most cases, the dryer function can only handle half of the capacity of the washer. So you need to wash smaller loads, or, be prepared to take half the washing out and do the drying in two batches.

Do combo washer dryers need to be vented?

Most combo washer-dryers don't need to be vented ― just like a standard separate dryer. This allows you to install a unit anywhere there's a water and electricity connection.

Why do washer dryers not dry properly?

When the washer dryer does not dry at all or does not dry correctly check the following: Make sure to turn the water tap on. Make sure the air filters are not clogged. Check primary and secondary air filters (heat pump washer dryers only).

Do washer dryer combos take longer to dry?

But washer-dryer combos are hardly flawless. Our tests revealed that these all-in-one machines wash better than they dry. In fact, they take much longer to dry clothes than a standard dryer.

What are the disadvantages of stackable washers and dryers?

Generally, stackable units might have a smaller capacity than some side-by-side models, making them potentially less suitable for large families or those with significant laundry needs. The bottom unit (usually the washer) might require bending down to load or unload, which can be tough on the back.

Where does the lint go in a washer/dryer combo?

There is not a lint filter like a traditional dryer; instead, lint collects in the condenser tank during the dry cycle.

Why are washer dryer combos ventless?

Ventless washer-dryer combos save energy, are easier on your clothes and can be installed anywhere. Still, they aren't for everyone.

Is it cheaper to buy washer dryer combo?

Washer dryer combo is budget-friendly

Buying a washer dryer is like buying two appliances for the price of one. Its running costs, on the other hand, may cost you more since its dryer function consumes more energy. However, if you're a small household, you may still be able to save.

Can a washer dryer combo be laid down?

Washer/dryer must be transported in the upright position.

Why are my clothes still wet in the washer/dryer combo?

If you're finding your laundry comes out wet at the end of the drying cycle, then you're most likely overloading your appliance. When overloaded, the warm air that's used to dry your clothes won't have enough space to circulate through your laundry to dry it completely.

Why does my washer dryer add water to dry?

This is normal. This is not a fault with your machine, it should briefly fill through the soap dispenser at the start of the drying cycle. This is not a fault with your machine, it should briefly fill through the soap dispenser at the start of the drying cycle.

Why does my washer dryer combo smell when I dry?

Switch off the machine and clean the drain pump/filter

When a lot of soap powder is used or a lot of foam is produced, the level system can get blocked by foam. Excessive detergent use can build up inside the appliance and cause bad smells and stains on clothes.

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