I did an AI inquiry.
We currently have a Miele washer and a separate Miele vent-less dryer. They are small 2.3 cubic feet (washer) and 4.3 c.f. (dryer) and
my wife hates them. That is about half the size of a mainstream stand-alone washer and dryer combo. They are small so she can only do smaller loads and some things like blankets and comforters are too big for it. My vent-less dryer relies on a refrigeration system to condense the humid air. It dries slowly - - at least an hour and a half. While it isn't the Equator brand, it is considered to be a reliable higher-end washer and dryer. But it shares the same size limitation as the Equator brand.
My wife hates them. I believe that a "happy wife - - happy life".
I think that an all-in-one could make a lot of sense in an RV and possibly even small apartment. But since you have the room for a stacked W/D I would recommend against the Equator. In addition to the size issue, there is also the multiplexing issue. When you are washing you can't be drying. So if you ever want to do more than a single load (like light clothes and dark clothes), it will take you twice the time.
Here is what AI says:
Equator all-in-one washer-dryer combos (such as the EZ 4600 and EZ 4700 models) generally cost between $1,199 and $1,459. Customers and reviewers praise them as great space-saving solutions for RVs and small apartments, highlighting their quiet operation, intuitive touch controls, and unique pet hair removal cycle. However, some users note long drying times and small load capacities. [
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Key Pros and Cons from Reviews
- Space-Saving Design: Fits easily in tight spots, RVs, or under counters.
- Pet Cycle: Effectively removes cat and dog hair from fabrics in a single cycle.
- Installation: Simple 110V plug-in setup with convertible vented or ventless condensing options on select models.
- Capacity Limits: Restricted drum size means it struggles with bulky items like large comforters.
- Drying Times: Ventless drying cycles take noticeably longer than traditional or vented dryers. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Reliability and User Sentiment
According to discussions on platforms like
Facebook, user opinions are mixed regarding long-term durability, with some users reporting minor leaks or longer maintenance cycles on older versions, while RV owners appreciate the specialized winterize feature. General compact appliance discussions on
Reddit suggest weighing alternatives like LG or Whirlpool if you need heavy-duty capacity. [
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Repair parts for Equator all-in-one washer-dryers have limited direct retail availability compared to major brands, but OEM and aftermarket parts are found on specialized sites and
eBay. Repair costs range from $150 to $400 for minor part replacements, whereas major motor or control board fixes can exceed $500, often approaching the unit's replacement value. [
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Parts Availability
- Direct Sources: Available through the Equator Appliances official site or by calling customer support at (800) 935-1955.
- Third-Party Markets: Online platforms like eBay list new, open-box, and used components (like heating elements and valves).
- Common Stock Constraints: Specialized electronic control boards and display panels for older models can have long wait times or limited stock. [1, 2, 3]
Cost to Repair
- Minor Repairs: Door switches, belts, and inlet valves typically cost $150 to $250 including labor.
- Moderate Repairs: Heating elements or drain pumps range from $250 to $400.
- Major Repairs: Drive motors or control boards cost $400 to $600+, making replacement a more economical option since new units retail around $1,100 to $1,400