What Size is Perfect for Me?

Determine what size Washer/Dryer You Need

Learning about laundry capacity and family size

Go ahead: perform a search for the correct size washer and dryer and you'll get overwhelmed with the amount of information that's out there. From energy efficiency, to the amount of room the new appliance(s) will take, it can be a struggle to find what's right for you – whether you're a family of six, a couple, or an individual in a downtown apartment. With a few pointers, we think we can help make this decision a littler easier.

First of all, let's make it clear that the size of the appliance will be important. Consider the space you are planning on putting your new washer and dryer. Make your measurements (allowing for 2 to 6 inches of extra space for air circulation) and write them down before you begin shopping. Make sure you also note if the washer and dryer should be side-by-side, stackable or compact. This will help you narrow down your options more quickly.

It's important to remember that a lot of sites use the terms "medium," "large," and "extra-large" capacity. This seems like a great measurement analysis, but the truth is that between different brands, the size associated with each term can change. For instance, a large dryer from one brand, may equal an extra-large washer from another brand. To help you when you're shopping for a new washer and dryer, try using the tips below to narrow down your search.

Medium to Large Size Family

Larger appliances typically get a bad rap for being energy hogs, but newer models are actually saving families more money than ever before. Here are just some of the latest technologies that have been added to our washers and dryers:

  • Load-Sensing Fill allows your washer to actually measure the amount of water that is needed so water is never wasted
  • Flow-Thruâ„¢ Dispensing System offers time-released detergent and fabric softener so that overuse of detergents is never a problem
  • Sensor Dry Plusâ„¢ allows your dryer to monitor moisture levels in your clothes, and turns off when they are at the desired level of dryness

Almost all GE washers and dryers are ENERGY STAR® qualified; meaning, even with a larger appliance, you're still saving energy and money on the amount of loads you do per week.

But what about saving time so you can get back to doing the things you actually enjoy? No worries, GE Appliances has you covered there as well. The newest washer and dryers are capable of doing much larger loads, so you can spend less time in the laundry room – from large items like comforters, quilts and pillows to simply doing bigger laundry loads.

Small Family

For a small family that consists of 1 or 2 people, and maybe a small child, a compact or stackable washer and dryer would be perfect. These smaller appliances do about 4-8 pounds of laundry per load, and are the perfect fit for apartment dwellers who aren't concerned with washing larger items like bedding.

Need to know more about the right size for you?

When it comes down to the exact size that is right for you, it's hard to give specifics because it depends on how much laundry you do per week, and every person and family is different and needs can change from week to week and month to month. Some people only do one small load of laundry per week, while others do 10 heavy loads of laundry per week.

Just remember that the as the size of the washer and dryer gets larger, so does the cost of each load of laundry; however, the larger the washer and dryer, the fewer loads you'll have to do per week. You also need to look at the features/technology of each appliance. If steam technology or advanced stain settings are important to you, then make sure the appliance you pick has features that support your needs.

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