I needed a compact stackable washer and dryer for an apartment, and after doing research basically I was down to two main options: 24" Stacked unit top-loader washer with vented dryer with small capacity, or the more expensive stackable compact European-style separate washer and dryers.
I was leaning toward the European-style models, considering the entry level models from Maytag (MAH2400AWW+MDE2400AYW), Whirlpool (LHW0050PQ+LEW0050PQ), EuroTech (EWF272+EDV278), Bosch (WFL2090UC+WTV76100US), Asko (W6222+T712) and Miele (W1203+T1312).
I found the Asko W6222 + T712 scratch & dent combination at a local outlet store at 50% off, and since I had already done my research and this one was one of the models I had on my list, it was a no brainer (see my review of the W6222 washer here).
Installation was pretty simple, and unlike some of the other models I was considering, there is no need to buy a separate stacking kit. There is also the option of purchasing a slide out table that fits between the washer and the dryer (to fold clothes, etc.) but I did not get it. Like most electric vented dryers, the T712 requires 220V, but unlike most washers, the W6222 plugs into the dryer, so only a single 220V 30A outlet is required for both units.
The dryer is very good looking, especially with the controls lit up, which match the look of the washer very well. It is extremely easy to use, I didn't even need to read the manual as everything is very intuitive.
Controls:
- There are 6 programs: Timed dry (60 minutes), Heavy, Normal, Delicate, Iron dry, Air fluff (60 minutes).
- There is a low temperature button (on or off), a wrinkle free button (on or off) and a 5h delay (on or off).
- There is a start/stop button.
- There is a counter which shows the minutes remaining.
Except for the two 60 minute programs, the dryer decides how long it needs to dry in the other program, after a few minutes of drying, it displays the time remaining. However, this time isn't always accurate. Most times it begins displaying close to an hour, but somewhere along the cycle, it updates the timer and overall it take about 1/2 hour.
I use the Normal cycle 98% of the time, and clothes come out completely dry in about 30 minutes almost all the time (I am sure the 1200 rpm spin cycle of the washer helps--of course towels take a little longer as well). Once in a while when washing sheets, the flat sheet and pillow cases get inside the fitted sheet (all in a big ball) and not everything is dry, but after I undo the ball and put everything back in, they come out dry after a few more minutes. I haven't seen a tumble dryer where this doesn't happen though.
It would be nice if the delay was more configurable (options are 5 hours or nothing). I've only used it before going to bed, so that way instead of clothes sitting in the dryer for 7-8 hours, they are there for 2-3 hours, but overall it's not that useful of a feature.
The wrinkle free feature is very interesting. When the cycle is finished, the drum continues to rotate for about 3 seconds every minute, for up to 2 hours, or until the door is opened, to avoid wrinkles in the clothes if you can't remove the laundry right away.
The lint filter is kind of a double filter which is very easy to remove and clean.
I really have no complaints about this dryer. In most cases it's a one button operation, it has a large capacity, and when combined with the W6222, they provide a great laundry experience.
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