Laundry Appliances: Washers, Dryers, and Everything in Between
Laundry never stops, so your appliances need to keep up. Whether you're replacing a machine that's finally given out or setting up a laundry room from scratch, the right setup makes a real difference week to week.
What Kind of Washer Works for You?
Front load washers use less water, run quieter, and are gentler on fabrics. They also stack, which is ideal for smaller spaces such as condos, apartments, or any home where the laundry room is really more of a closet. Upfront cost is higher, but efficiency adds up over time. Top load washers with an agitator are the familiar Canadian standard. Faster cycles, easier loading, and generally more affordable. If you're washing work clothes, hockey gear, or anything that comes home genuinely dirty, an agitator model handles it well. Top load high-efficiency washers skip the agitator for an impeller plate, giving you a larger drum and a gentler wash. A solid middle-ground if you want top-loading convenience with more capacity.
Dryers, Laundry Centers, and All-in-One Units
Most people buy a washer and dryer as a matched set, and there's a good reason for that. Paired sets have compatible capacities so your dryer keeps up with your washer. Electric models require a dedicated 240V outlet. Gas dryers cost less to run over time but need a gas line. If you're replacing an existing dryer, match the fuel type unless you're prepared for an installation project.
Not every home has room for a side-by-side pair. Laundry centers combine a washer and dryer into one freestanding unit, taking up roughly the footprint of a single machine. All-in-one combo units go further, washing and drying in the same drum, ideal for very tight spaces where even a laundry center won't fit.
Before You Buy
Measure your space and the path your appliances need to travel to get there. Doorways and hallways catch people off guard more often than you'd think. Think about your household size honestly. For most families, a washer in the 4.5 to 5.5 cubic foot range handles things without daily loads. And if your laundry room shares a wall with a bedroom, noise ratings matter more than most spec sheets let on.
Frequently Asked Laundry Appliance Questions
What should I look for when buying a washing machine? Start with capacity, then look at energy efficiency, spin speed (higher RPM means less moisture going into the dryer), and cycle options. Reliability ratings and warranty coverage matter more than most people realize until something goes wrong.
Top load or front load: which is better? Front loaders are more efficient, gentler on clothes, and the only option if you're stacking. Top loaders are faster, easier to load, and less expensive upfront. Neither is universally better. It comes down to your space and how you do laundry.
What is a wash tower? A wash tower is a front load washer and dryer built as a single connected unit. Unlike stacking two separate machines, it's engineered to work as one appliance with a smaller overall footprint. A practical choice for laundry closets and condo setups.
What is an agitator? The central post inside a top load washer that moves clothes through the water. Agitator models handle heavy, soiled loads well and tend to cost less. HE top loaders without an agitator use an impeller plate for a larger drum and a gentler wash.
How much does a washer and dryer cost in Canada? Prices vary depending on the type, capacity, and features you're looking for. Entry-level sets are the most affordable, mid-range sets with larger drums and more cycle options sit in the middle, and premium or smart-enabled models cost more. Buying a matched pair rather than two separate machines often saves money. Visit dufresne.ca or your nearest Dufresne store to see current pricing across our full selection.
How do I know when to replace my washing machine? Most machines last 10 to 13 years. Watch for clothes coming out still dirty or wet, unusual noise or vibration, visible rust, or repair costs approaching half the price of a new machine.
Book an appointment or shop online for our full selection of laundry appliances. Visit your nearest Dufresne showroom across Manitoba, Ontario, and Saskatchewan. Our Certified Appliance Experts are ready to help you find the right fit for your space and budget.