The combination washer-dryer, available for the last ten years in Europe, has finally crossed the ocean to the United States. A single, compact unit houses both a horizontal-axis clothes washer and an electric dryer. At least three manufacturers are marketing models in the United States, stressing the space-saving and convenience features. The machine is front loading with controls on the front (making it easier to use for people in wheelchairs) and it automatically switches to the dry cycle after washing the clothes. The capacity of one unit, Equator Corporation’s EZ1000, is ten pounds; the two- speed main motor uses 300 watts and 900 watts, and the dry heating element has 750-watt and 1,500-watt settings. The cost of the models currently on the market is comparable to the combined price of a standard washer and a standard dryer. Fortune, Apr 4, 1994, Time- Life Building, Rockefeller Center, New York, NY 10020. Tel: (212) 522-1212; Fax: (212) 522-0024.