Maybe combos sucked once upon a time? I think, if you understand their limitations, you could be quite pleased that you could get a full-service laundry solution in such a small machine. There is a tread here from a a few weeks ago, but I've had good success with a 24" LG combo unit. Ventless drying and 110v hookup. The bigger 27" combo unit, I think, fits in your budget.

Why would the smaller one be more expensive?

Do you know where I can order them? I went to Yale Appliances and they won't even order anything, unless they have it in store (I asked about 110v dryers).

Why is the smaller one more expensive? Good question. I have no idea, but the price spread is different depending on where you order. It's irritating especially since the bigger one has more options too.

We ordered ours through the US Appliance website. I know AJ Madison & Compact Appliance also sell them. You'll likely have to order them online. I couldn't fine a single shop in the DC area that had them on the floor. Though I find that strange b/c I've seen them in many houses here.

Another option for a 110 washer/dryer (ventless) is Summit. I've never used it but there are a couple of decent reviews on Amazon. It's also less expensive than the LG. You can see it on Summit's web site (link below.) I purchased a Summit refrigerator sight unseen two years ago from a local dealer who ordered it for me and I am very happy with it.

Here is a link that might be useful: Summit Appliances

Thanks for your replies!

Do the combo units have any leakage problems? I asked my landlord about putting a 220V switch in the apartment and he said no, because he didn't want the machine to leak. Is that generally a problem or does he just not want it in this unit?

Also, how much electricity per load does the LG or Summit washer/dryer combo use approximately? I am trying to see whether I should just stick with a wash/dry/fold service ($1.07 per pound, including delivery) for towels, linens and other large/heavy items that would take too long to dry on my drying racks and the washer downstairs for most clothing items, or if purchasing one of these combo units makes financial sense.

How is the reliability of these machines? I have read a bit about "obsolescence", that is, within 5 years, washer/dryers break down far beyond repair, so you just have to replace them. How true is this with the combos (and in general, for that matter)? That will play a large role in deciding if buying a W/D makes sense.

Thank you!

Well, any washing machine can leak, I guess. After 4-5 months with the LG combo, we haven't had any leaks, and don't forsee any in the near future. And like I said, it's 110v, not 220v. You wouldn't have to upgrade your outlet.

As far as energy usage, it's supposed to cost $16/year when used with an electric water heater, $13 with a gas water heater. Or 152kwh per year, per the energy star sticker. Which is not shabby at all.

I can't speak to the long-term reliability. It's warranted for a year, I'm sure. But we bought a 3-year Squaretrade warranty for $79 just in case. I can't say it's the best solution for you, only you'll know that. But it has replaced our stacked washer/dryer fabulously and we have no complaints. Maybe one, the clothes are a tad more wrinkly than with a standard 220v dryer, but that is a small price to pay for all the pros.

It sounds to me like your landlord doesn't want a washer installed in the apartment. His statement about 220v and leakage doesn't make sense; there's no relationship between the two. Look at it this way: he currently gets income from the building's laundry room and the income helps defray the cost of incoming water, which is probably metered. Other tenants may want to do the same thing if he allows you to install a washer. If the building is old, he may have concerns about vibration, electrical capacity of breaker box, etc. Just some food for thought.