When many people move into a new house, this is the time that they consider buying a new drying machine to install, often for the very first time. The choice most people have to make is whether to buy a combination washer dryer machine or go for a separate dedicated drying unit. It is important to do your research first in order to get something that suits your needs to the full.

Normally the capacity of a separate machine is much bigger than that of a washer dryer combo. Most separate appliances have a capacity of around 5 to 7 cubic feet which is bigger than that of a combo machine which comes in at around 3 cubic feet. The compact machines are useful though in small cottages or apartments where there is a shortage of space.

The majority of drying machines that you typically find are powered by electricity although it is quite possible to find a unit that is powered by gas. Many gas powered appliances can be more economical and cost effective in the long run.

It can be very daunting and off putting when entering a department store or showroom for the first time to look at machines. The choice of manufacturers such as Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore and GE can be very overwhelming. Therefore, a useful thing to do is an online search for the different makes on a large site such as Amazon. These will list all the different and many features, sizes and extra bonuses that come with the appliance. When going to a store it is vital to measure the space where the dryer is going to go into.

The full size machines which are useful if you have a large family are usually about 28 inches wide. If the space you have is much smaller than this then it is worth having a look at one of the more compact mini drying or mini washer dryer machines.

Like combo machines you will need to decide between a vented or non-vented model. A vented appliance pushes the damp hot air from the machine to the outside of the house and into the fresh open air. A non-vented model or condenser machine takes this damp air and passes it through a condenser which collects the water produced into a container within the machine, which must be emptied on a regular basis.

The vented machines tend to be cheaper than the ventless models, which require regular emptying, although they do require a way of connecting to the outside which may be a problem in some residences. A ventless model can be placed anywhere in the house so doesn't need to be near a window or outside wall which is good for a basement laundry.

When making a choice there are basically two decisions to make: whether to go for a single dryer unit or go for the combo appliance; and whether to buy a vented or ventless model. One last point of note is that both machines will achieve the same outcome of dry clean clothes but you will find the washer dryer combo will take a little longer to do it.