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Last Updated on September 4, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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Best RV Washer Dryer
The RV washer and dryer is a must-have appliance for any recreational vehicle. It provides an easy and convenient laundry solution for those on the move. This versatile machine is designed to fit compactly into your RV, offering washing and drying capabilities in one unit.
- RV washer dryers: compact laundry appliances for RVs.
- Two main types: combo units and stackable units.
- Combo units: all-in-one machines for limited space.
- Stackable units: separate machines for more capacity.
- Lower capacity: typically 10 to 15 pounds.
- Energy-efficient and water-saving for RV use.
- Various cycles are available, including delicate and quick.
Buying an RV will open up a world of adventure and opportunities that wouldn’t have existed with the “traditional” housing arrangement of renting an apartment or buying a home.
No longer are you tied to the physical real estate your property sits on top of; instead, you get to slide behind the wheel of your RV and lead as nomadic a lifestyle as you wish.
Driving up and down the coast, clear across the country, and even visiting other nations, knowing you will always have a nice, warm, safe place to stay whenever you decide to park.
At the same time, your RV will change your lifestyle more than you might expect – especially at first.
Sure, you’re going into this purchase recognizing that your RV will require sacrifices compared to your previous lifestyle.
The space available is considerably smaller, your house will have wheels and no permanent address, and even finding electricity and plumbing hookups becomes much more challenging than in a home or apartment.
Many people don’t realize that purchasing an RV will change their lives quite a bit, even their regular chores.
Sure, RV appliances have gotten better and better over the years—and today, they represent significant leaps forward in appliance technology that were once thought impossible just a decade ago.
But you have to look at these appliances differently than you would when purchasing their traditional “big brother” setups for your home or apartment.
This is particularly true when discussing RV washer and dryer setups.
Highlighting Some of the Best RV Washer and Dryer Options
1. LG WM3997HWA Steam Washer/Dryer Combination
Summary
It is one of the best combination units money can buy today. You won’t go wrong getting the LG unit for your new RV.
Utilizing many of the same engineering and construction materials found in the traditional washers and dryers LG produces for homes and apartments, this space-saving unit is feature-rich, capable, and incredibly efficient.
Some find it doesn’t dry clothes as quickly as folks hope. Still, it has the most significant control options, considerable flexibility, and a reputation for longevity and durability you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Splendide WD2100XC White Vented Combo Washer/Dryer
Summary
Another of the top-tier combination units that can go almost toe to toe with the LG unit we highlighted above, the oversized capacity of this still compact system makes this such an attractive purchase for RV owners.
You’re looking at a laundry set up in a single unit that can handle loads of laundry upwards of 15 pounds at once. It runs through a 10-wash cycle/3 dry cycle ratio setup that guarantees your clothes always come out quickly and completely clean.
Installation is simple, and this setup’s nearly silent operation makes it one of the most attractive systems for RVers who are serious about their nomadic adventures.
3. Panda Compact Combo Machine
Summary
Suppose you don’t want to spend a small fortune on your RV appliances but still want to take advantage of outsized capabilities from a reliable system. In that case, you know what isn’t going to fall apart while you are out on the open road. This Panda unit is well worth looking into.
Lightweight, easy to install, and super efficient, the washer’s actual laundry load capabilities and capacity are a bit limited compared to other options, but it handles washing and drying your clothes very quickly.
It has a simple control system and scheme that you can effortlessly navigate, though you sacrifice some of the “set it and forget it” capabilities of the more digitized options on the market today.
Doing the Laundry on the Road Can Be a Challenge
Investing in a quality washer and dryer setup for your RV will dramatically improve your quality of life.
Not only will you be able to pop in a load of laundry at almost any time you want to, firing up the dryer even if your clothes are only wet from rain or snow, but you’ll also be able to avoid having to find expensive laundromats and be tied down to locations around those hotspots to knock out these weekly chores.
Unfortunately, purchasing a top-tier RV washer and dryer setup is nowhere near as simple as getting these appliances for your home or apartment.
They have different spatial requirements, utilize various types of technology to get the job done, and usually aren’t represented by the top-tier brands you are used to shopping for when looking at a traditional setup.
Thankfully, by paying close attention to the inside information we share below, you will have no trouble finding a suitable RV washer and dryer.
We’ve put together a couple of quick tips and tricks to focus on while you conduct your research, a couple of features and factors you’ll want to zero in on before you pull the trigger on this purchase, and even highlight a couple of the best washer and dryer options for RVs on the market today that you’ll want to look into.
Let’s Dig Right In!
Highlighting the Main Three Types of RV Washer and Dryer Setups
Right out of the gate, it’s essential to recognize that there are dozens and dozens of different washers and dryers to pick and choose from.
When you shop for these appliances, there are only three significant types of washer and dryer designs for RVs – and only two significant variations across all three of those setups.
This will help you narrow your options significantly, saving you time, money, and energy as you look across all available options.
You’ll need to consider your RV’s setup, the modifications needed to accommodate your new appliances, and many other issues that will be touched on in a second.
But you should generally focus on finding the suitable washer and dryer of these three main types before you do anything else.
The three major types you’ll want to be on the lookout for are:
- Compact and Stackable Washer and Dryer Units
- Washer and Dryer Combination Units
- Portable Washer and Dryer Units
Each of these three types has its pros and cons (which we will discuss in a second), but they also have two significant variations across the board that will impact which RV washer or dryer you should purchase.
Those two variations are:
- Vented Systems and
- Non-vented Systems
Even though the technology for non-vented systems has improved significantly in just the last 15 years, you’ll generally want to get your hands on vented RV setups.
They use a lot less power, they dry clothes a lot faster, and they aren’t going to use a lot of water along the way, either.
Vented models will require some modifications to your RV if appliance “cutouts” don’t already exist. That can be daunting to tackle on your own and reasonably expensive to have professionals handle for you, making non-vented systems attractive.
But if safety, efficiency, and long-term expenses are priorities, you should choose a vented setup.
Let’s get to the three significant types of washer and dryer systems.
Compact and Stackable Washer and Dryer Units
Probably the most common of all the different RV washer and dryer units out there (especially in larger RVs), most of these solutions allow you to wash and dry two separate loads of laundry without any headache or hassle whatsoever.
The most similar RV dryer and washer systems are to the traditional units you have in your home or apartment (though always quite a bit smaller and significantly lighter); if you have the available real estate in your RV for these systems and want to be able to knock out larger loads of laundry at the same time, this is the kind of technology you’ll want to shop for.
Pros:
- You’ll be able to knock out larger loads of laundry once with these appliances
- You can wash and dry loads of laundry at the same time
- You are going to get relatively quick and efficient results with this setup
Cons:
- It is definitely on the larger side of things when it comes to RV appliances
- Use a considerable amount of water
- Will require you to have access to sewer and water hookups for usage
- Are going to consume a decent amount of electricity
Washer and Dryer Combination Units
Relatively new, the overwhelming majority of new RVs being built with washer and dryer capabilities inside of them are taking advantage of these combination units – and it’s easy to see why.
Big on saving space, you get a singular appliance that handles double duty – both washing and drying your laundry.
It is just a little bit smaller than a washer and dryer unit that can be combined or stacked on top of one another. Because this is a singular appliance, you get a little bit of extra room to do larger loads of laundry all at once.
It is energy-efficient and water-efficient and automatically switches between washing and drying, so you only have to load and unload laundry at once. These are a little bit on the more expensive side of things, but they provide the benefits you are looking for when out on the road.
Pros:
- Relatively compact footprint as a single appliance
- It is about as easy to use as it gets
- It is as close to “set it and forget it” as you’re going to find in the RV appliance world
- Most modern RVs are already set up to use this technology
- Takes advantage of less resources to get the job done
- Available in both vented and non-vented setups
- Can run off of a generator and holding tank resources
Cons:
- It will take upwards of three hours to complete a single load of laundry
- Uses upwards of 20 gallons of water for a single load of laundry
- It isn’t going to operate efficiently if you overload it
Portable Washer and Dryer Units
Incredibly compact and easy to use, portable washer and dryer units are ideal for RVers doing a bit of “dry camping” without reliable or consistent access to outside electricity.
Small, almost always non-vented, and taking advantage of a condensing system, you won’t be able to do quite as much laundry with these portable systems all at once as you would with the other options. Still, you can knock out laundry relatively quickly, even without access to all kinds of extra resources.
Pros:
- Will not require outside electricity sources
- Incredibly water and energy-efficient
- They are about as compact as they get
- Very inexpensive
- Washes loads of laundry faster than you think
Cons:
- Some of the best portable units require manual agitation
- Longevity is a concern
- Have to be “babysat” to knock out a whole load of laundry
What to Look for When Buying an RV Washer/Dryer Combo
Capacity
Consider the amount of laundry you typically do and choose a washer-dryer combo with a suitable capacity. For example, if you have a small family, a combined capacity of 2.5-3.5 cubic feet would be sufficient. However, larger families may need a larger capacity of 4-5 cubic feet.
Size and Fit
Measure your RV’s available space and ensure the washer-dryer combo will fit properly. Look for compact models specifically designed for RVs, which are more likely to fit into tight spaces. Consider the combo’s dimensions, including the depth, width, and height.
Power Source
Determine whether your RV supports the washer-dryer combo’s power requirements. Some models may require a 220V power supply, while others can operate on 110V. Ensure that your RV’s electrical system is compatible with your chosen combo.
Energy Efficiency
Consider the energy efficiency of the washer-dryer combo to save on energy consumption and lower your RV’s power requirements. Look for models with Energy Star ratings, which tend to be more efficient. This can help you conserve power and extend the life of your RV’s battery.
Are RV Washers and Dryers Worth It?
While alternatives are available, such as campground facilities or public laundromats, these options often lack convenience and can become a hassle over time.
Owning your washer and dryer in your RV offers unmatched convenience. It allows you to manage your laundry at any time, regardless of location.
Regardless of the initial investment, the long-term benefits of having an in-house laundry system in your RV make it a worthwhile purchase.
Hence, when considering comfort, flexibility, and practicality, RV washer and dryers prove their worth.
Final Words
RV washer and dryer units are essential appliances for those who enjoy the freedom and flexibility of RV living. These compact laundry appliances are designed specifically for RV use, providing the convenience of home laundry facilities while on the road.
There are two main types of RV washer-dryers: combo units and stackable units. Combo units are all-in-one machines that are perfect for RVs with limited space.
They typically have a lower capacity, usually 10 to 15 pounds, but are highly energy-efficient and water-saving, making them ideal for RV use.
On the other hand, stackable units consist of separate machines, offering more capacity for larger loads. These units also come with various cycles, including delicate and quick, catering to various laundry needs.
In conclusion, an RV Washer Dryer is a practical and efficient solution for maintaining clean clothes while enjoying the RV lifestyle.
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