Vital Statistics Of The LG Washer Dryer Combo
While LG manufactures a number of separate washers and dryers, the combo system is a single unit that does both. At the moment (2011) LG's product line includes at least two sizes: a small capacity 2.7 cubic foot and a larger 4.2 cubic foot model. The smaller of the two have the following dimensions: Width: 24" Depth: 25.25" Height: 33.50", whereas the larger has these: Width: 27" Depth: 29 3/4" Height: 38 11/16".
Both have similar settings, 9 wash and 6 dry cycles. Both are front-loading units as seems standard for washer dryer combo systems. One advantage is that the unit runs on regular 110V whereas many washers and dryers need a 240V power supply.
The Magic Of The Combo System
The combo system means that in a single compartment the laundry is both washed and dried. Best of all, the dryer uses a special mechanism known as a "condensation system" that does not require a vent. Most dryers need an external hose and vent hook-up to pipe the moist air outside. But in the case of the LG washer dryer combo the condensation system cools the steam into liquid and lets it empty through a drain. Since there is no vent, there is no need to knock a hole in the wall or find a special place to put the unit.
Long Drying Times
However, one common complaint is that the condensation system takes a longer time to dry. Some reviewers have noted that it takes almost 5 hours (1 hour wash and 4 hours dry) to do a "normal" load of clothes. This is mitigated by reducing a load to a half-load, or by removing half the load during the dry cycle as recommended by LG. The long cycle time is one drawback of an otherwise great drying mechanism. Note that sometimes the interior or even clothes seem damp after the dry cycle completes, but really all that's required is a bit of shaking and airing out to remove the last vestiges of moisture.
The "LoDecibel" System
Both small and large versions are outfitted with something called "LoDecibel" technology, basically meaning that it operates very quietly with a smooth motor. The reviews are mixed though on whether this technology works – some people say that its is quiet and others say it is loud. This turns out to be a mixed story. While the motor itself is very quiet during the washing and drying phases, there is a rather loud pump which engages every now and then during the dry cycle. And even though the system is quiet, there is considerable torque as expected from a powerful motor. The torque gives rise to vibrations under certain resonant conditions. This means that if your floor or your house or your wood may have the right vibrational frequencies which get amplified just right by the washer dryer. These vibrations in turn become noises!
Environmentally Friendly
The Korean-manufactured LG washer dryer has received top marks for low energy use. The motor is guaranteed for 10 years but of course many people run into repair problems for other things like the pump. One thing not to worry about is that there are no belts to replace as the motor drives the drum directly. Some users have noted that the high efficiency qualities means very low amounts of detergent and softener are required with no impact on the wash. The electricity usage has also been measured by a few users independently, with estimates of a full cycle running from $0.21 to $0.53, which of course varies from city to city which charge different utility rates. Water usage is very low, estimated at 12-15 gallons compared to standard washers that require up to 30 gallons per cycle.
Cost
Paradoxically on Amazon the price for the smaller one is around $1600, about $300 more expensive than the larger one. LG's own website has them listed for $1679.99 to $1789.99. In short, while it substitutes for two machines, expect to pay for about two machines worth to buy it. On top of that, consider servicing costs to be higher for a fairly specialized unit. Users have also reported that lots of lint collects on both the rubber gasket which seals the door as well as in a trap situated at the bottom of the compartment which catches lint as water is drained. The reasons for so much lint is that there is no lint trap in this kind of drying system. In a conventional system as hot air is piped out of the machine lint is carried to the screen. But in the condensation drying system the hot air just gets cooled and turned into moisture, which doesn't carry the lint anywhere. The lack of lint and exhaust duct has the unexpected advantage of removing one fire hazard.
Tips For Usage
The 5 hour cycle time for a regular load of laundry is very long for some people but consider just starting it and forgetting about it. You might try putting in the laundry in the morning, go to work, and come back home to a clean load of laundry. The machine will occasionally tumble the clothes during the last "cool-down" phase of drying to prevent wrinkling.
