Washer and Dryer Combo Guide

Learn how to use the combination washer and dryer unit safely and effectively.

Quick Start Guide

Important Information

This is a washer and dryer combo unit - it both washes and dries clothes in a single machine.

Critical Rules

⚠️ Never stop cycles mid-operation!

If you stop a cycle before it completes, the machine will lock and become inoperable. If this happens, you’ll need to reset it using the electrical breaker (see Troubleshooting section below).

⚠️ Do not load bulky items!

Large, bulky items like comforters or heavy blankets can cause the machine to malfunction or fail to complete cycles properly.

Operating Instructions

Loading the Machine

1. Open the door and load clothes
2. Don’t overload - leave some space for clothes to move
3. Distribute evenly to prevent imbalance
4. Close the door firmly until you hear it click

Adding Detergent

1. Pull out the detergent drawer
2. Add detergent to the main wash compartment
3. Add fabric softener to the appropriate compartment (if desired)
4. Close the drawer completely

Detergent Amount: Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent in the amount recommended for your load size

Selecting a Cycle

1. Turn the dial to select your wash cycle:

   • Normal - Everyday laundry
   • Delicates - Gentle cycle for delicate fabrics
   • Heavy Duty - For heavily soiled items
   • Quick Wash - For lightly soiled items

2. Adjust settings using the option buttons:

   • Temperature
   • Spin speed
   • Dry level (for the drying portion)

3. Press Start to begin the cycle

Drying

The combo unit will automatically transition from washing to drying. You can:

• Let it complete the full wash and dry cycle automatically
• Select the desired dryness level before starting
• Use the “Wash Only” option if you prefer to air dry

Load Capacity

Maximum Load

Do not exceed the maximum load capacity marked on the machine or in the manual.

Best Practices

• Smaller loads work best for combo units
• For drying efficiency, don’t fill more than 3/4 full
• Separate heavy items from light items when possible

What Not to Wash

• Large comforters or bedspreads (may not fit or dry properly)
• Items marked “Dry Clean Only”
• Waterproof or water-resistant items (like rain jackets)
• Items with excessive pet hair (clean lint filter first)

Troubleshooting

Machine is Locked and Won’t Open

This is the most common issue - usually caused by stopping a cycle mid-operation.

Solution: Reset via Circuit Breaker

1. Locate the breaker panel

   • Location: To the left of the TV in the living room
   • It’s behind the picture frame

2. Flip the breaker for the washer and dryer to the OFF position

3. Wait 2-5 minutes

4. Flip the breaker back to the ON position

5. Try opening the machine - it should now be unlocked

Machine Won’t Start

• Check that the door is fully closed
• Ensure the machine is plugged in
• Verify power at the breaker panel
• Make sure a cycle is selected

Clothes Not Drying Properly

• Reduce load size
• Clean the lint filter
• Ensure adequate ventilation
• Select a higher dryness level

Machine is Shaking Excessively

• Redistribute the load
• Reduce load size
• Check that machine is level
• Remove bulky items

Maintenance

After Each Load

• Leave the door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape
• Wipe down the door seal to prevent mold/mildew
• Remove lint from the filter

Weekly

• Clean the detergent drawer
• Wipe down the drum
• Check door seal for debris

Monthly

• Run a cleaning cycle with washing machine cleaner
• Wipe down the exterior

Cycle Times

Note: Combo wash and dry cycles take longer than separate machines.

• Wash Only: 45-90 minutes
• Full Wash and Dry: 3-5 hours (depending on load size and dryness level)
• Quick Wash: 30-45 minutes

Important Reminders

• Never interrupt a cycle - let it complete fully
• Avoid bulky items - they can cause malfunctions
• Use HE detergent - regular detergent creates too many suds
• Don’t overload - smaller loads work better in combo units
• Know where the breaker is - in case you need to reset the machine

Emergency Contacts

If you need to reset the machine and can’t locate the breaker panel, or if the reset doesn’t work:

Contact Property Management

Need Help?

For any issues with the washing machine that you can’t resolve with the reset procedure, please contact us for assistance.