If you’re in the market for a new washing machine and dryer, you might be considering a stackable option to save space in your home. Two of the most popular brands for stackable washer/dryer combos are Frigidaire and Summit. In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at the features, benefits, and drawbacks of each brand to help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to Stackable Washer/Dryers
In case you’re not familiar with stackable washer/dryers, these appliances are designed to fit on top of one another. As a result, they save space in your home, making them a popular option for apartments, small homes, and other compact living situations. You can find stackable washer/dryer combos in a variety of sizes, styles, and brands.
One of the benefits of stackable washer/dryers is that they are often more energy-efficient than traditional washers and dryers. This is because they use less water and electricity to operate, which can save you money on your utility bills over time. Additionally, many stackable washer/dryer combos come with advanced features like steam cleaning and smart technology, which can make doing laundry even easier and more convenient.
Pros and Cons of Choosing a Stackable Washer/Dryer
Before we dive into the Frigidaire and Summit options specifically, let’s briefly review the pros and cons of choosing a stackable washer/dryer.
Pros:
- Saves space
- Requires only one outlet
- Often more affordable than separate machines
Cons:
- May not be as efficient as separate machines
- Smaller capacity than separate machines
- May require some manual adjustment for proper installation
It’s important to note that stackable washer/dryer units are not suitable for everyone. If you have a large family or frequently wash bulky items like comforters, a stackable unit may not have the capacity you need. Additionally, if you have mobility issues or difficulty reaching high places, a stacked unit may not be the best option for you. It’s important to carefully consider your needs and limitations before making a decision.
Frigidaire Stackable Washer/Dryer Features and Benefits
Let’s start with the Frigidaire stackable washer/dryer combo. Frigidaire is a well-known brand in the world of home appliances, and their stackable options are no exception. The Frigidaire combo is available in both electric and gas options, depending on your preference.
Features:
- 3.9 cubic foot washer capacity
- 5.5 cubic foot dryer capacity
- 10 wash cycles and 6 dry cycles
- Energy Star certified
- Easy-to-use controls
- Quiet operation
Benefits:
- Larger dryer capacity than some other stackable options
- Allows for customized washing and drying cycles
- Can help save on energy costs with its certification
- Sleek design fits in well with modern decor
In addition to its impressive features and benefits, the Frigidaire stackable washer/dryer combo also comes with a one-year limited warranty. This gives customers peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong with their appliance within the first year of ownership, Frigidaire will take care of it. Additionally, the combo is designed with a space-saving mindset, making it perfect for those who live in apartments or have limited laundry room space.
Summit Stackable Washer/Dryer Features and Benefits
Summit is a lesser-known brand in the realm of household appliances, but they offer a stackable washer/dryer combo that’s worth considering. Like Frigidaire, the Summit combo is available in both electric and gas options.
Features:
- 2.7 cubic foot washer capacity
- 5.5 cubic foot dryer capacity
- 16 wash cycles and 3 dry cycles
- Energy Star certified
- Compact size fits in small spaces
- Digital display with touch controls
Benefits:
- Smaller washer capacity than some other options, but still able to handle a decent amount of laundry
- Offers a wide range of wash cycles for more customization
- Compact size makes it a great option for apartments and smaller homes
- Efficient operation can help save on energy costs
One additional benefit of the Summit stackable washer/dryer combo is its quiet operation. Many customers have noted that the machine runs smoothly and without excessive noise, making it a great option for those who live in close quarters or have a shared living space. Additionally, the combo’s compact size and stackable design make it easy to install in a closet or other small space, freeing up valuable square footage in your home.
Design and Aesthetics Comparison
When it comes to aesthetics, the Frigidaire and Summit options both offer sleek, modern designs. The Frigidaire option is available in white, while the Summit option is available in both white and platinum. In terms of dimensions, the Summit combo is notably smaller than the Frigidaire combo, which may be a consideration for those with very limited space.
Additionally, the Frigidaire combo features a digital display panel on the front of the unit, allowing for easy control and monitoring of the washing and drying cycles. The Summit combo, on the other hand, has a more traditional knob and dial system for selecting cycles and settings. This may be a factor to consider for those who prefer a more modern, high-tech approach to their appliances.
Performance Comparison
When it comes to performance, both the Frigidaire and Summit options offer reliable, efficient operation. However, it’s worth noting that the Frigidaire option has a larger washer capacity, which can come in handy for those with bigger families or frequent dirty laundry loads.
In addition to the larger washer capacity, the Frigidaire option also has a faster spin cycle, which means clothes come out drier and require less time in the dryer. This can save energy and reduce overall laundry time. On the other hand, the Summit option has a more advanced control panel with customizable settings for different types of fabrics and stains, allowing for more precise and tailored cleaning.
Energy Efficiency Comparison
As mentioned, both the Frigidaire and Summit options are Energy Star certified, which means they’re designed to help reduce energy costs. However, the Frigidaire option has a slightly higher rating, which could make a difference over time for those looking to keep energy costs low.
Maintenance and Repair Comparison
When it comes to maintenance and repair, both the Frigidaire and Summit options are relatively easy to take care of. However, it’s worth noting that Frigidaire is a more established brand with a wider network of service providers, so repairs may be easier to come by for Frigidaire owners.
Price Comparison between Frigidaire and Summit Stackable Washer/Dryers
Finally, let’s compare the prices of the Frigidaire and Summit stackable washer/dryer combos. At the time of this writing, the Frigidaire combo is priced around $1,400, while the Summit combo is priced around $1,000. While the Frigidaire option is more expensive, it comes with a larger washer capacity and slightly higher energy efficiency rating.
Customer Reviews of Frigidaire and Summit Stackable Washer/Dryers
Before making a final decision, it’s always a good idea to see what other customers are saying about these appliances. Overall, both Frigidaire and Summit owners report high levels of satisfaction with their stackable washer/dryer combos. Frigidaire owners often praise the combo’s large dryer capacity and efficient operation, while Summit owners appreciate the compact size and range of wash cycle options.
Conclusion: Which Brand is the Better Choice for Your Needs?
So, which brand should you choose for your stackable washer/dryer needs? Ultimately, it depends on your priorities. If you prioritize a larger washer capacity and slightly higher energy efficiency rating, the Frigidaire option might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you live in a small space and prioritize a compact design and range of wash cycle options, the Summit option might be the better fit. Regardless of which option you choose, both Frigidaire and Summit offer reliable, efficient stackable washer/dryer combos that are worth considering for anyone in need of space-saving laundry appliances.