Camper Washer And Dryer: What's The Cost?

Washers and dryers for campers are a big investment in terms of cost, space, and energy usage. They can be a great addition to your campervan, offering the convenience of washing clothes on the road and eliminating the need to use shared laundry facilities. However, they also have some drawbacks, including higher energy consumption and the potential for mould and mildew accumulation.

There are several types of washers and dryers available for campers, including stackable units, portable options, and combo machines. Stackable washers and dryers are designed to be placed on top of each other, saving space. Portable washers and dryers are lightweight and compact, perfect for small or older RVs. Combo machines feature a single drum for washing and drying, offering a space-saving solution.

When choosing a washer and dryer for your camper, consider factors such as your budget, available space, and energy usage. If you're an off-grid camper, portable or manual washing options might be more suitable. For those with larger campers and access to electrical hook-ups, stackable or combo units could be a good choice.

The cost of washers and dryers for campers can vary widely, ranging from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. It's important to consider not only the upfront cost but also the long-term impact on your energy bills. Additionally, the installation process may require modifications to your electrical system and plumbing, so be sure to factor in those costs as well.

Washer-dryer combos are a great middle ground between portable and stackable models

Space-saving Design

Washer-dryer combos are designed to be compact and space-saving. They combine the functions of a washer and dryer into a single unit, taking up less space than stackable models. This is especially advantageous for RVs, where space is limited. The compact design of washer-dryer combos allows for efficient use of space, making them ideal for small RVs or those with limited installation space.

Convenience and Efficiency

With a washer-dryer combo, you can wash and dry your clothes in the same unit, eliminating the need to transfer laundry between separate machines. This not only saves time but also reduces the overall laundry cycle time. Additionally, washer-dryer combos often come with a variety of wash and dry cycles, allowing you to customize the settings according to your fabric types and soil levels. Some models even offer features like quick wash, delicate cycle, and steam refresh, providing added convenience and efficiency for your laundry tasks.

Venting Options

Washer-dryer combos offer flexibility in terms of venting options. You can choose between vented and ventless units depending on your RV's ventilation system and personal preference. Vented models use an exhaust vent to expel moist air, resulting in faster drying times. However, they require you to cut a vent hole in your RV. On the other hand, ventless units use condensation to dry clothes, eliminating the need for an external vent. While ventless options have a longer drying process and higher electricity consumption, they can be a good choice if you want to avoid making modifications to your RV.

Water and Power Efficiency

When choosing a washer-dryer combo for your RV, consider selecting a model that is energy-efficient and water-saving. This is especially important if you plan on dry camping or boondocking, as your RV will have limited power and water resources. Look for units with low power consumption and water usage to ensure optimal performance without straining your RV's systems.

Cost

While the cost of washer-dryer combos can vary, you can expect to pay over $1,000 for a quality unit. However, many RVers believe that the convenience and functionality of having a washer and dryer in their RV are well worth the investment, especially if you plan on spending extended periods on the road.

In conclusion, washer-dryer combos offer a great balance between portability and the functionality of stackable models. They provide space-saving designs, convenience, and flexibility in terms of venting options. Additionally, the availability of water- and energy-efficient models makes them a practical choice for RVs, ensuring you can keep your laundry clean and fresh without sacrificing comfort or resources.

Vented washers and dryers use the air in the room to dry clothes

Vented Washers and Dryers for Campers

Vented washers and dryers are an option for those who want to do laundry in their camper or RV. These units use the air in the room to dry clothes, which means you'll need to cut a hole in the exterior of your trailer to let the heat escape. While vented dryers use far less electricity and dry clothes faster than ventless models, they do require a bit more installation work.

Equator Advanced Appliances

Equator Advanced Appliances offers a range of washer and dryer options that would work for campers and RVs. Their basic stackable unit features a 13 lbs washer and vented sensor dryer, while their premium stackable option includes a 15-lb washer and 3.5 cu.ft vented dryer. They also offer an all-in-one washer and dryer combo unit that is vented and has a 15-lb capacity.

GE Profile

GE Profile offers a 28-inch smart front-load washer and dryer combo unit with a 4.8 cu.ft capacity and 12 wash and 14 dryer cycles. This unit is available from Amazon and Best Buy.

LG

LG offers a 24-inch front-load washer and dryer combo unit with a 2.3 cu. ft. capacity, Wi-Fi capability, 14 wash cycles, and a ventless design. This unit is available from Amazon. They also offer a 2.4 cu. ft. smart front-load washer and electric dryer combo unit with steam and sensor dry functionality. This unit is available from Best Buy.

Samsung

Samsung offers a Bespoke AI 5.3 cu. ft. all-in-one front-load electric washer and dryer combo unit with super speed wash and ventless heat pump dryer. This unit is available from Best Buy.

Non-vented washers and dryers heat the air inside the drum to dry the clothes

Washer and Dryer for a Camper

The cost of a washer and dryer for a camper varies depending on the brand, model, and features. On Best Buy, washer and dryer combo units for RVs range from around $1,000 to $2,799.99. On Amazon, prices range from $899 to $2,299. Camping World offers a range of options from $1,298 to $2,499.99.

Non-Vented Washers and Dryers

Non-vented washers and dryers, also known as ventless or vent-free dryers, are a great option for campers as they do not require a vent to expel hot, humid air. Instead, they recirculate and heat the air inside the drum to dry the clothes. This makes them a safe and efficient choice, as they do not release moist, lint-filled air into the camper, reducing the risk of fires and mould development.

There are two types of non-vented dryers: condensation dryers and heat pump dryers. Condensation dryers pull in cool, dry air from the room, heat it, and pass it through the clothes. The air is then cooled in a heat exchanger, causing the moisture to condense and flow into a containment chamber or drain pipe. This process is repeated until the clothes are dry.

Heat pump dryers work similarly, but they use a heat pump to recycle the hot air and remove moisture from the laundry. The cold side of the heat pump condenses the water vapour into a drain pipe or collection tank, while the hot side reheats the air to be used again.

Non-vented dryers offer several benefits, including the ability to be placed anywhere near an outlet and not requiring vent pipes. They are also gentler on clothes, as they do not get as hot as vented dryers, and use less energy. However, they typically have smaller capacities and longer drying times than standard vented dryers.

Stackable washers and dryers are designed in a vertical stack so that the units take up less space width-wise

Stackable washers and dryers are a great option for RVs and campers, as they are designed to take up less space. These units are often designed to be stacked on top of one another, which is a highly desirable feature for those with limited space. This configuration cuts the amount of floor space required in half, as one of the units is elevated off the ground. As a result, you save two-to-three feet of usable room, which is especially beneficial for those with cramped conditions.

Stackable washers and dryers are also an excellent choice for oversized RVs and campers, as they free up plenty of space for other belongings. They are typically designed with a washer on the bottom and a dryer on the top, allowing you to run both appliances simultaneously. This type of setup is perfect for those who have the space and primarily set up their RVs at campgrounds with dedicated water supplies and power outlets.

When it comes to stackable washers and dryers, there are a variety of options available. The Equator brand offers a stackable washer and dryer set that can also be packed side-by-side, providing Tetris-style customisation. These front-loading appliances are conservatively sized and energy-efficient, featuring a dozen wash cycles and accessory settings. The dryer includes four separate cycles: low, normal, extra, and damp, and smart sensors help prevent over-drying and under-drying. Additionally, they come with a 2-minute winterization cycle, making them perfect for RV travel.

Another option is the Splendide Stackable Washer and Dryer Bundle, which includes the Splendide WFL1300XD Stackable Washer and the Splendide DV6500X Stackable Dryer. The washer has a 4 out of 5-star rating and offers 9 different wash cycles, a 15lb load capacity, and a high spin cycle. It also includes special cycle options such as delay start, extra rinse, prewash, and post-cycle care. The dryer has a rating of 3.4 out of 5 stars.

For those on a budget, the KUPPET Twin Tub Mini Washing Machine is a compact option designed for tiny homes, including RVs. While it may not have all the energy-efficient features of other RV-specific models, it is significantly more affordable. This top-loading washer has a compartmental design with two separate tubs for washing and spinning, allowing for increased capacity and versatility.

Portable washers and dryers are generally lighter and more compact than stackable models

Portable Washers and Dryers vs. Stackable Models

When it comes to doing laundry in a camper or RV, there are a few options to consider: portable washers and dryers, stackable models, and combo units. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, but portable washers and dryers stand out for their lightweight and compact design.

Portable Washers and Dryers

Portable washers and dryers are known for their compact size and ease of transportation. They are designed to be highly portable, making them ideal for campers or RVs where space is limited. Here are some key advantages of portable washers and dryers:

• Lightweight and Compact: Portable washers and dryers are generally smaller and lighter than stackable models, making them easier to move around and store. This is especially beneficial for campers or RVs with limited space.
• Quick Cycle Times: Portable models often have shorter cycle times, allowing you to complete more loads in a shorter period. This efficiency can be a significant advantage when you're on the move or have limited access to laundry facilities.
• Flexibility: The compact size of portable washers and dryers offers flexibility in terms of placement. They can be easily moved around and don't require permanent installation, making them a convenient choice for campers or RVs.

Stackable Washers and Dryers

Stackable washers and dryers, on the other hand, are designed to be placed one on top of the other, saving valuable floor space. Here are some considerations regarding stackable models:

• Space Savings: Stackable washers and dryers free up floor space, making them ideal for small laundry rooms or limited spaces in campers or RVs.
• Increased Capacity: Stackable models often offer larger capacities compared to portable washers and dryers, allowing you to wash and dry larger loads.
• Smart Features: Many newer stackable models come with smart features that automatically select the ideal drying cycle based on the type of clothes washed. This can save time and improve the overall laundry experience.

Combo Washer-Dryer Units

Another option for campers or RVs is a combo washer-dryer unit, where a single machine combines both washing and drying functions. These units are known for their space-saving design and efficiency. Here are some key advantages of combo units:

• Space Savings: Combo units are designed to be compact and space-efficient, making them ideal for campers or RVs with limited space.
• Convenience: With a combo unit, you don't need to transfer laundry between a separate washer and dryer, making the laundry process more convenient and streamlined.
• Water and Power Efficiency: Combo units are designed to be water and energy-efficient, which is especially important for off-grid camping or boondocking.

In conclusion, when considering a washer and dryer for a camper or RV, it's important to weigh the advantages of each option. Portable washers and dryers stand out for their lightweight and compact design, making them easy to transport and store. Stackable models offer space savings and increased capacity, while combo units provide convenience and efficiency. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, space constraints, and laundry requirements.

Frequently asked questions