Are stackable washer/dryers any good?

[Bienes Raices]

I am considering providing a stackable W/D set in the rental (due to space considerations), instead of two separate units side by side on the floor.

Years ago in an apartment I had a stackable W/D and the dryer took an eternity to dry the clothes (90 minutes to 2 hours if there were jeans in the load). Is this the norm with these units, or was I just unlucky. I don't want to provide something that's just going to p*ss the tenants off. Thanks.

[Randy F.]

Initial cost and repair costs are both lower for a one piece stackset. The front loaders, which are stackable, are all the rage but are a hit or miss proposition. Some are lucky enough to have no trouble but way too many are not so lucky. Too many expensive parts and more labor to tear down and repair. Whirlpool an Fridgidaire stacks are both good but the whirlpool is more structurally solid.

Parts for the stacksets are readily available and reasonable. If the front loaders need a control board it will cost as much to replace board as a rebuild on both the washer and dryer of a one piece stackset.

My opinion for a rental... Find a rebuilt whirlpool 27" stackset for $500 - $600 bucks and it will take a lickin and keep on tickin. If no place sells refurbished in your area, I would find one on craigslist that looks in good shape... Clean dryer drum, etc., get it for $300 and run ad for someone to rebuild it. Not something you can fake. They either can or cant. Likely get a call from a tech who isnt workin or will do on the side for $200- $250