Which washer-dryer brand is the most reliable?

We investigated the performance and reliability of some of the most popular washer-dryer brands including Bosch, Hisense and Samsung.

In our unique brand reliability and customer satisfaction survey, we asked nearly 1,600 Which? members and members of the public if they’re happy with their washer-dryer and whether they’ve experienced problems, to help you choose an appliance that lasts.

We've crunched the numbers for the biggest washer-dryer manufacturers, including AEG, Beko and John Lewis, and have calculated a customer score for each, so you know which brands come recommended by owners – and which don't. 

Already decided on a brand? Discover the best washer-dryers to make sure you get a top-scoring model

Which washer-dryer brands develop the fewest faults?

This table summarises what we found about how quickly washer-dryer brands develop faults, based on washer-dryers bought in the past seven years.

Only Which? members can log in to view which washer-dryer brands are the most and least reliable, and which our members are most satisfied with. If you're not yet a member, join Which? to get instant access.

Which washer-dryer brands do owners recommend?

As well as faults, our survey also revealed which washer-dryer brands owners feel happy with – and which they would recommend to a friend.

These results are shown as each brand’s customer score, and is based on washer-dryers bought in the past seven years.

Which? members can log in to view which washer-dryer brands last the longest before they need to be replaced. If you're not yet a member, join Which? to get instant access.

To compare more options, browse all our expert washer-dryer reviews

The 3 most common washer-dryer faults

Taking good care of your machine is important to keeping it running efficiently and extend its working life. But sometimes faults do develop without warning, however well you look after your machine.

Here are the three most common faults, as reported by nearly 1,600 washer-dryers owners.

1. Broken timer (9% of faults reported)

A broken timer was the most common problem across brands, according to our survey. Timers can break for a variety of reasons, from an accumulation of dirt to mechanical wear and tear or electrical issues such as power surges.

Before calling in the professionals, run some checks on the machine to see if the fault is down to a simple buildup of dirt. Unplug the machine and disassemble the control panel to access the timer. This will involve removing a series of screws and clips. Clean the contacts with a fine-grit sandpaper to remove any corrosion or buildup, and reassemble the machine.

If you can't identify or resolve the issue, call in a professional. In some models, the timer is driven by a motor – if the motor fails, the timer won't advance so the cycle cannot complete.

2. Broken fan (8%)

Broken fans were responsible for 8% of faults. Like timers, these can break for several reasons including lint buildup, a problem with the machine's electrical connections, worn out motor bearings or missing or loose screws.

Before calling in the professionals, run some checks on the machine to try and determine the issue. Simple issues such as lint buildup and missing or loose screws can be fixed by cleaning the fan and replacing or tightening any missing or loose parts.

3. Broken vent hose (6%)

The third most common fault related to broken vent hoses. This is usually caused by physical damage from being squashed or kinked, from lint buildup that causes blockages and leads to overheating, or improper installation.

It's important to fix or replace a damaged vent hose because it not only reduces the dryer's efficiency, it's also a fire hazard. 

We recommend calling in a professional when it comes to serious problems. You can search for a Which? Trusted Trader to get the job done right.

Can a broken washer-dryer be repaired?

Washer-dryers are two machines in one so, in theory, there’s more that can go wrong with them.

Small issues may be prevented with proper care and maintenance, and keeping the machine clean will reduce the chance of it breaking. Our survey revealed 27% of respondents had never cleaned the condenser on their washer-dryer, and 23% had never emptied the water tank.

If there are persistent or more serious problems with your washer-dryer, it's best to consult a professional or the company that sold your washer-dryer. Faulty washer-dryers can often be repaired by the manufacturer under warranty, so always check the warranty terms when buying a new machine.

If your appliance is beyond repair, find out how to recycle electrical items safely and sustainably

Which washer-dryer brands offer the best guarantees?

Most washer-dryer brands offer product guarantees of at least one year as standard, and you may be able to extend this by registering the machine. There are a handful of brands that offer longer cover, including:

• Hisense – offers a two-year warranty on all products, which can be extended for an extra three years by registering the machine within 90 days of purchase.
• Samsung  – offers two years' warranty as standard, but this can be extended up to five years' parts and labour by registering a qualifying product.
• John Lewis – offers a minimum two-year guarantee on all electricals, with an additional year available for John Lewis branded machines.

Faulty product? Find out how to get a refund, repair or replacement

How we discover the most reliable washer-dryer brands

Which? has a wealth of information on your favourite brands. Every year, we ask Which? members and members of the public to tell us about the home appliances they own – from how likely they would be to recommend a brand to how reliable the products are once they get them home.

In July 2025, more than 9,300 Which? members and members of the public told us about more than 27,500 individual products. We calculate each brand's customer score, fault rate and reliability rating using the results of our annual survey.

Our surveys, combined with our extensive lab tests, mean we can recommend the best washer-dryers to buy.

For more on our tests and what it takes to get a Which? Best Buy recommendation, read how we test washer dryers