Washer/Dryer question

[Smitty]

We ordered our fifth wheel this past Saturday and it has a large enough cabinet in the kitchen area to either house a stackable washer and dryer or a combo unit. There is still plenty of storage/cabinets whether we choose either unit. I guess the factory does not install them but makes the unit ready for them so we will not choose what type we want until the fifth wheel is on site. My question, those of you who have them which would you suggest? Again space is not an issue. Thanks.

[Corky506]

The factory does install. We got our combo unit install in our 2011 REQS in May. A little pricey but in our floor plan much easier installed at the factory. We like the combo unit because the space above the WD can he used to hang items. We have had both types and our vote goes to the combo over the stacked.

[Lady Fitzgerald]

Ok, what one person prefers, another may detest so let me list advantages and disadvantages of each (based on the Splendides) to help you with making your own decision.

Combos: Advantages
1. Takes up less space.
2. Can run on a single 15A 120v dedicated circuit.
3. Weighs less.
4. Can do both wash and dry unattended (this advantage is negated if one needs to remove and fold clothes before starting dry cycle to reduce wrinkling).
Combos: Disadvantages
1. Multiple loads take longer than a stack.
2. Can dry only 11 lb. instead of the 13 of a stack.

Stack: Advantages
1. Larger dryer load than combo (13 lb. instead of 11)
2. Less time to do multiple loads since the dryer can be running while the next load is washing.
Stack: Disadvantages
1. Weighs more.
2. Needs 2 15A 120v dedicated circuits (although, depending on the draw of the refrigerator, one may be able to steal the needed 4A for the washer from the refrigerator circuit) or one 20A 120v circuit.
3. Takes up more space than a combo.

If you decide on a combo, be sure to get a vented unit. The ventless use more water, take considerably longer to dry, then they don't get the clothes quite dry. Finding a way to squeeze in the vent might be challenging but it would be well worth it.

Also, if you get a combo, if the hookups will permit it (the drain standpipe would probably have to be extended somehow), consider raising the unit off the floor 12"-18". Your back will thank you for it. You can always reclaim the space under the combo with a drawer or slide out shelf. Either can hide behind the existing door.

[Smitty]

Well, we decided and the factory will install the stacked set. Spoke with the Dealership and by having Jayco install them, they are covered under the two year warranty that comes with the trailer. I asked the Dealer about the plugs for both and he said there are two separate outlets in the cabinet, one for each unit. They go into the kitchen area and will sit just over the Axels so they won't add a lot of weight directly over the pin. Washer weighs 150 lbs & dryer weighs 75 lbs.