Frequently Asked Questions: Washers & Dryers
Whether you’re looking to upgrade or replace, you have hopes of finding a new washer and dryer — but you also want to make a smart purchase. Finding the right questions to ask before buying isn’t always easy, however, which is why we’ve compiled this list of frequently asked washer and dryer questions. If you still have questions by the end of this FAQ, feel free to chat with us online using the Help chat box located at the bottom-right of our page. An expert is standing by ready to help answer your questions.
1. What is the best washer and dryer?
As we’ve outlined in our Laundry Appliance Buying Guide, knowing which washer and dryer is best for you depends on several factors. That includes budget, how much space your home has, your preferred fuel source, and the number of people in your household, among other considerations.
One of the best ways to shop for a washer or dryer is by reading reviews. Take a look at some of the best-rated washers and dryers available at East Coast Appliance!
Top-rated washers:
- Electrolux Laundry 4.4 Cu. Ft. Island White Front Load Washer (EFLS627UIW) – 4.8 star rating from over 4,200 buyers
- GE® 5.0 Cu. Ft. White Smart Front Load Washer (GFW850SSNWW) – 4.7 star rating from over 2,300 buyers
- LG 5.0 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer (WT7300CW) – 4.5 star rating from over 1,970 buyers
Top-rated dryers:
- Electrolux Laundry 8.0 Cu. Ft. Island White Front Load Electric Dryer (EFME627UIW) – 4.7 star rating from over 2,100 buyers
- GE® 7.8 Cu. Ft. White Smart Front Load Electric Dryer (GFD85ESSNWW) – 4.7 star rating from over 1,500 buyers
- LG 7.4 Cu. Ft. Graphite Steel Front Load Electric Dryer (DLEX3700V) – 4.6 star rating from over 860 buyers
2. What is the most reliable washer and dryer brand?
According to an appliance satisfaction study from J.D. Powers in 2020 based off evaluations from 2,014 washer purchasers and 1,691 dryer purchasers, Samsung, Whirlpool, and LG are the most reliable washer and dryer manufacturers.
Samsung ranked best overall with top rankings in front-load washers, top-load washers, and dryers. LG laundry appliances make an appearance twice in the top-three slot, tying with Samsung in the front-load sector and placing second marginally for both top-load washers and dryers.
That being said, Speed Queen is consistently regarded as one of the most reliable washer and dryer manufacturers on the market for those who have a broader budget.
Other reliable washer and dryer brands include:
3. What is the average lifespan of a washer and dryer?
Typically, washers last around 10 years with some models providing up to 14 years of performance. Since dryers use less mechanics to operate, they generally last a little longer, averaging around 13 years of use.
Still, some high-end brands exceed those numbers, like Speed Queen appliances that have been known to last up to 25 years. Of course, one of the best ways to extend the life of a washer and dryer is by having a handy service team on call.
4. How wide are a washer and dryer?
The standard width for a washer and dryer is typically 26 or 27 inches, while compact washers and dryers range between 21 inches and 24 inches wide. Additionally, some dryers that use side venting will add to the overall width of the appliance.
5. Can a washer and dryer be stacked?
When sold individually, front-load washers can be stacked only when using a special stacking kit. A top-load washer and matching dryer cannot (and should not) be stacked under any circumstance. The exception would be a stacked laundry unit that uses a top-loading washer on the bottom and a dryer above.
Keep in mind, while this configuration may help save space, stacked top-loading washers don’t provide the full range of access since the lid does not open fully. Additionally, the door must be propped open manually during loading and unloading, which may be an impediment for some users.
6. How much electricity does a washer and dryer use?
The best way to determine the annual cost to operate a washer or dryer is by checking the EnergyGuide. Learn how to use the EnergyGuide label or use an online tool to calculate the annual energy cost of a washer or dryer.
Additionally, knowing which fuel source your laundry appliance uses can also help determine the cost. Overall, gas is cheaper to operate than electricity, but this will only affect dryer rates, since all washers are electric. After getting familiar with the EnergyGuide label, you can plug in these numbers for a more accurate cost:
Based off energy rates in Virginia:
- The average per-kilowatt rate of electricity in Virginia is 11.7 cents per hour.
- The average residential gas cost in Virginia is 30 cents per therm.
7. How much do washers and dryers cost?
At East Coast Appliance, you can find washers and dryers that fit a range of budgets.
Entry-level washers start at around $450 up to $800, while mid-end washers fall between $850 and $1,300. High-end washers start around $1,300 and up with some premium brand models falling around $4,999.
Depending on the fuel type, entry-level dryers range around $460 up to $799, meanwhile mid-end dryers can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,199. High-end dryers start around $1,200 with some luxury dryer models going up to $1,999.
- Tip: Don’t forget to check out our Scratch and Dent catalog for other ways to save on washers and dryers.
8. Where can I buy a washer and dryer near me?
For new washers and dryers near you in the Virginia area, the best place to shop is at East Coast Appliance. As Virginia’s largest independent appliance dealer, we provide our shoppers with a wide range of options for every price point and lifestyle. On top of freestanding washers and dryers, we also provide money-saving laundry pairs, stacked laundry units, all-in-one washer dryer combos, plus drying cabinets and commercial laundry appliances.
And finding a dream washer and dryer is easier than ever! From special financing options, to regular rebates and promotions on appliances throughout the home, we’re the Discount Kings — and we want to save you money on your next major appliance purchase!
Shop the One-Stop Appliance Solution
With a new washer and dryer in your home, laundry days are as easy as shopping for new appliances at everyday low prices at East Coast Appliance. With appliance showrooms throughout Virginia, including Chesapeake, Richmond, Virginia Beach, and Norfolk, we’re your local experts dedicated to providing reliable appliances from the best brands on the market backed by unbeatable customer service.
We’re open to help you in-store, via phone at 757-963-9733, and online for all your appliance needs. Shop today!