Reliability question - washing m/c or Washer/Dryer?

Hi
Can anyone give me an indication of how reliable washer dryers are? I am about to move into a flat and have limited room for drying clothes and for the unit itself. I am interested by washerdryers but i have heard lots of negative comments about their reliability.

Are they more reliable these days? I would expect a washing m/c to work for 5 years without a breakdown therefore i have similar expectations for a washer/dryer, are they realistic?

Thanks for any advice

think again

some info

a washer dryer cant dry that which it has just washed if it had a full load

more parts on a w/d = more to go wrong

w/d have a condensor these block with lint

get separates cheaper, more reliable use both at same time

My machine is 5 yrs old no problems YET, its about space.
If you have plenty get 2 machines, you can wash & dry at the same time.
Also
Efficiency: A washer / dryer has to try to do 2 things, therfore the design is a compromise