Asko Non-Ventilated Single Drum Washer/Dryer WCAM1812
Date Published: 6/1/05
The high-quality Asko WCAM1812 washer/dryer combo is perfect for those who could previously only dream about having their own in-home laundry.
It fits in the tiniest of spaces, washes and dries in the same machine, uses regular household current, and requires absolutely no ventilation. Although smaller than a stand-alone machine, this model can easily handle the needs of one or two people living in tight quarters.
It offers top shelf features that include three spin speeds, up to four rinses, a pre-soak mode, and a wrinkle resistant drying cycle. Since it takes much longer to dry with a non-ventilated machine like this one, the best way to use it is to put clothes in early before starting the day. While you're out, the machine will soak, wash, rinse, and dry with no attention required. When you get home in the evening everything will be clean and dry, just waiting for you to put it away.
The only potential drawback to this system is the lack of flexibility in drying. Wash cycles are automatically programmed to dry in a predetermined manner. If you prefer to hang some items dry or dry delicate items for shorter times, you may find this system frustrating.
On the other hand, one thing you won't need to worry about is leaving this machine running when you're not around. Equipped with an overfill protector, you can rest assured that this machine can handle itself, even while you're out on the town.
Although you may find cheaper machines than this one, you'll find few that are as solidly built. The good news is that the cost differential between this model and one of lesser quality is usually not that great. If the price doesn't put the model out of your budget, you'll want to give the WCAM1812 some serious consideration.
With two durable stainless steel tanks, its own built-in water heater, nine versatile wash settings, and an incredible warranty, the Asko WCAM1812 is hard to beat. Add to this the fact that the average load in this super-efficient model uses only about 20 gallons of water, and you'll be hard pressed to pass it by.
Pros: Great value, well built, washes and dries in one tiny space with no outside ventilation
Cons: Some may find the capacity small, drying times run about 3 times longer than standard vented dryer, drying system lacks flexibility
Warranty
3 years, full; 5 years, timers, controls, motor, pumps; lifetime, drum


