Featured Review (47): LG All-In-One Steam Washer and Dryer Model WM3988HWA

There’s so many appliances to choose from when it comes to washers and dryers. Sometimes it’s easier to get an all-in-one. The convenience of a smaller machine saves space, especially for those in apartments. I have had the LG Washer and Dryer for just a short while as we just moved into a new house. Though we have plenty of space, our laundry room space is indeed limited. Our household decided on this appliance for convenience, for performance and for a cool look when stepping into the laundry room.

The LG All-In-One Steam Washer and Dryer is a single unit with many digital technologies. With new features being improved, the appliance is energy efficient when it comes to water. The washer and dryer is equipped with the SenseClean feature, which can automatically set the washing time and water level based on the weight and size of the load being washed.

LG WM3988HWA washer dryer combo all in oneThe digital settings also include a custom setting. You can customize the best wash cycle for your clothes by using the memory feature. Also featured is an allergen reducer that can be set into the digital memory. This helps reduce dust mites and animal dander in the wash cycles.

One feature I have never had on a washer and dryer is a Sanitary cycle. The washer turns the heat up in the water to near 160 degrees to help remove tough stains and ensures bacteria from dirty clothes are cleaned. This comes in handy for couples with children who may have brought home a sickness from school or other contractible infections. The clothes are all washed over a roller jet system with water being forced out like a sprinkler. This prevents clothes from snagging on a traditional setup, giving your clothes a gentler yet powerful cleaning.

What makes this unit unique is that the washing and drying cycles happen in the same place. There’s no need to load from one compartment to the next. When the wash cycle is finished, depending on how you programmed your wash, the dryer will begin to dry after the wash cycle. The dryer also has a sanitary option as well as the allergen cycle. There are only a few timed cycles and when drying clothes, it’s best not to overload the machine for efficient drying times.

We enjoy the LG All-In-One because when we’re running late in the morning for work, it’s easy to fluff clothes or remove wrinkles by tossing them in for a short 20 minute press cycle that cleans using steam and then presses wrinkles out.

The front loading system also is quiet. There are no belts involved as the motor directs power straight to the drum. This helps keep the machine balanced and reduces any extra noise that washers and dryers usually make.

The LG steam washer and dryer is however costly, costing near $2,000. It is worth every dollar spend however as the warranty from the manufacturer is quite impressive. The warranty covers one year on typical parts. The drum is covered for a lifetime and the motor that directs power is covered for 7 years. The digital control board is covered by the warranty for 2 years if anything were to go wrong. The combo only comes in white.

The LG Washer and Dryer combo can be purchased at Sears, Best Buy or directly from LG for roughly the same price.

by C. Chaning

Featured Review (46): Frigidaire Stacked Washer and Dryer, Model: GLEH1642DS

Whether you live in an apartment, or you just have a really small laundry room, sometimes you don’t have enough space for the traditional side-by-side washer and dryer. If you find yourself in this situation, you can always purchase stackable washers and dryers, however, most of these appliances are extremely expensive and can cost you several thousand dollars. When you want a cost effective way of purchasing your own washer and dryer, then you will want to view the following product. The Frigidaire Front Load Stacked Washer and Dryer, Model: GLEH1642DS will give you the space-saving design of having stackable laundry units without the extremely high price tag.

frigidaire-GLEH1642DSProduct Ratings:

User-Friendliness: 4.5/5 Stars
Washing/Drying Technologies: 3.5/5 Stars
Product Features: 4/5 Stars
Overall Rating: 4/5 Stars

Main Product Features:

The main feature that this appliance will provide you is convenience. If you have a small apartment, dorm room or just a small laundry room, then you will enjoy the space this Frigidaire Stacked Washer and Dryer will offer you. The front-loading washing machine is located on the bottom level of this appliance, and the dryer is located directly above it.

The washing machine features a total of 3.1 cubic feet of washing capacity. And with the stainless steel washing drum, you will never have to worry about rust stains on your clothing or tearing due to rips within washing drum.

There are a total of sixteen washing cycles that you can choose from, all of which are monitored by automatic water level systems as well as automatic detergent/bleach/fabric softener dispensers. Since this washer is front-loading, you will be able to enjoy higher-efficiency, which will show up as lower energy costs on your bills.

The dryer features a total of 5.7 cubic feet of space, which is quite large. There are a total of four different drying cycles you can choose from, which is plenty for the average consumer. This dryer utilizes moisture sensors to determine the water level left in your clothing, and will either shorten or elongate the drying process depending on how quickly your clothes are dried. My favorite feature of this dryer is the Press Saver Function, which will rid nearly all of the wrinkles out of your clothing so you don’t have to worry about ironing them.

The control panels of this washing machine and dryer are centrally located for easy reach, and are extremely easy to operate.

Product Price:

This advanced, and space saver, Frigidaire Stacked Washer and Dryer can be purchased online and through select retail stores for an average price of $1,100.

by Jonathan McLelland

Washer-Dryer Combos: What To Look For

Stacked washer-and-dryer units come in two forms. Some are all-in-one units called laundry centers. The other configuration is to mount a separately purchased dryer on top of a front-load washer. Not all washers can be stacked this way. The last option is a washer-dryer combo, which washes and dries clothing in the same drum. In general, experts say to consider the following when shopping for a laundry center, stackable washer and dryer or washer-dryer combo:

3 washer dryer combos

  • Separate washers and dryers can often be stacked to save space. This is a good option if you have enough space, but keep in mind that only models labeled as “stackable” can safely be stacked. You’ll need to buy a kit to safely stack the machines, and keep in mind that the total height of the stack may make the dryer hard to reach.
  • Laundry centers are easier to reach than stacked washers and dryers. However, they tend to have fewer features, and 27-inch units (the most common) take up almost as much floor space. 24-inch units will often fit in a closet or kitchen, but only hold about half as much laundry.
  • All-in-one washer-dryers can be used without venting or a 220-volt power supply. This makes them a great choice for apartment-dwellers, but they do have some serious drawbacks. They have limited capacity, may take several hours to finish a load of laundry and are more prone to breakdowns.
  • Front-loading washers are better than top-loading washers because they use less water and electricity. Their fast spin speed removes more water from clothing to cut drying time, they’re easier on fabrics and they use smaller amounts of regular detergents.
  • It’s worth paying extra for a moisture sensor in the dryer. A moisture sensor detects the level of moisture in the load and automatically shuts off the machine when clothes are dry, drying laundry more accurately than a thermostat sensor. Despite the extra cost, a moisture sensor helps save energy and reduces wear and tear on your clothes. Most models these days have this feature.
  • A gas dryer is preferable to an electric dryer, if you have the option. Gas dryers are usually cheaper to run (they often pay back their higher purchase cost within the first year, depending on usage and local utility rates) and tend to dry a little quicker. Full-size, 27-inch laundry centers are generally available with a gas dryer, but smaller 24-inch models are usually electric-only.

Experts say that you should be sure to measure your available space before shopping, including clearance for electric cords and the dryer’s exhaust duct, doorways and potential obstructions leading to the location. Be aware that most stacked units require a 240-volt outlet. If you don’t have one where you plan to install the unit, you will need to install one.

Cash for Appliances Rebate Program

By the end of 2009, consumers nationwide will be able to take advantage of a federal “cash for appliances” program offering rebates on purchases of a wide array of home appliances certified as energy-efficient by the EPA’s Energy Star program.

Backed by an initial $300 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the state-run rebate program is intended to help make American homes more energy-efficient while further stimulating the economy.

“Appliances consume a huge amount of our electricity, so there’s enormous potential to both save energy and save families money every month,” said Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu in a press release. “These rebates will help families make the transition to more efficient appliances, making purchases that will directly stimulate the economy and create jobs.”



energy star logo largeStates will Run the Rebate Program
Each state will administer its own cash for appliances program. The states will be free to select which residential Energy Star qualified appliances to include in their programs and the individual rebate amount offered for each appliance.

What Can You Buy?
The Department of Energy (DOE) has recommended that the states focus their cash for appliances rebate efforts on heating and cooling equipment, appliances, and water heaters as these products offer the greatest energy savings potential. Energy Star qualified appliance categories eligible for rebates include: central air conditioners, heat pumps (air source and geothermal), boilers, furnaces (oil and gas), room air conditioners, clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, and water heaters.

How Big Will the Rebates Be?
While the states will be free to set actual rebate amounts based on their share of the $300 million, the Department of Energy expects the rebates to range from $50 to $200 per appliance. But wait, there’s more. Any rebates offered by state and local utility districts for purchases of energy-efficient appliances will be added to the federal cash for appliances rebate.

How do You Qualify?
All consumers will need to do to get the rebate is simply buy any qualifying Energy Star appliance. Unlike the “cash for clunkers” fuel-efficient vehicle rebate program, you don’t even need an old trade-in appliance. In addition, consumers will not be required to haul their bulky old appliances to the dealer in exchange for a new one.

When Does it Start?
The states will have until October 15, 2009 to submit their applications for funding and plans for recycling old appliances to the Department of Energy (DOE). The DOE plans to have distributed funding to the states by November 30. As a result, the cash for appliances rebates could be available in stores just in time for Christmas shopping.

Washer/Dryer Combo

The washing machine and dryer have become an important part of almost every household. They help busy homemakers a lot who cannot focus on the laundry all of the time. With them around, they can do their other household chores while allowing the two machines take care of those soiled clothes. Now, it would certainly be nice to hear that washing machine and dryer were combined into one. Here is to present to you the washer dryer combo.

Since the time that the washer dryer combo has been introduced to the public, a lot of people became interested in owning a machine like it. Unlike the common washing machine and dryer that has two different chambers, one for washing the clothes and one for drying, with a washer dryer combo, you can do the washing and the drying in only one chamber.

LG Wahser-Dryer 3431HW Controls

One of the big differences that it has from its counterparts is that it is much cheaper. This is why many household owners who need to buy new washing machines chose to get this product instead. In fact, due to the increasing demands for washer dryer combos, various stores in the market were flooded with numerous of brands and designs of the said machine. Even online marketers became interested in the product and started selling different models online, making it easier for you to purchase your own washer dryer combo even from the convenience of your home. Purchasing the product online can save you from street hassles that you will likely encounter if you will go to a store that sells it.

If you are planning to buy the product, make sure that the store where you will buy it from is reliable. Purchasing it usually comes with a warranty which will enable you to have it replaced if in case you will accidentally get something with a defect. Before actually buying the product, make sure that you understood all the return policies, as well as the after sales services.

A washer/dryer combo is an energy-saving appliance. You will be surprised at how your electricity bill will reduce once you start using it compared to conventional washing machines and dryers. Some people may still not be aware about the existence of a washer dryer combo. Of course, it also has its share of disadvantages like every product does. Therefore, it is advisable to ask the dealer to explain its pros and cons to you before you settle down for any brand.

One of the most common disadvantages of this machine is that it can only handle a small load of laundry at a time. The dryer is only capable of drying half of the full load, which means you will have to remove half of the laundry and return it after you’re done in drying the previous batch. In spite of these things, the washer dryer combo is still a technological breakthrough. It will be like washing your clothes and picking them up from the machine already clean and dry.

The washer dryer combo is rated by the Energy Star because it requires less use of water and electricity. Moreover, it dries clothes more efficiently and faster compared to a standard dryer. You will not have to worry if the clothes are still damp upon taking them out. They will really be dry.

With regards to storage, washer dryer combos are easy to store. Most models have wheels; therefore, moving it from one place to another is not going to take too much of your effort and time. It will only occupy a small space as well.

LG Washer Dryer Video Review 2

LG Washer Dryer Video Review

Washer Dryer Combination Basics

What is a washer dryer combination?

A washer dryer combination is one appliance that both washes and dries clothes. These units have only one chamber for clothes; they are not stackable washer/dryers. Washer dryer combos have been popular in Europe and the Far East for many years; due to the small apartments and living spaces common in these areas, compact appliances were developed to fit the smaller spaces. Many combos are also designed to be portable, offering even more options for storage and use of the unit.

How does non-vented drying work?
Non-vented combos have a two-drum system. The hot air is forced into the outer drum where a condensation process is used to cool the air and condense the water vapor out of it. The water is then flushed out the drain hose to the sink or plumbing lines. Because no venting is required of the non-vented w/d, this unit may be easily installed under a cabinet, in a closet, or anywhere water and electricity are available.

How much laundry can I do in one load?
The amount varies depending upon the size of the unit you purchase and the bulkiness of the fabric of the load. A “full size” washer can hold 22 pounds of clothes (more than 3.5 cubic feet), so you can compare other size units to that. You should be aware that you only want to fill your unit up halfway with clothes; they can only dry half as much as they can wash, so putting in more clothes than this will cause them to not be able to dry.

Can the combo units be connected to my kitchen faucet?
Yes, there are faucet adaptors available so the units can be connected to a standard kitchen sink faucet. When connected to a faucet, the outlet hose on these units can be run to the sink drain.

How long do the cycles on w/d combos take?
The length of the cycles varies based on the unit, the cycles selected, and the size of the load. Generally, 110 Volt units take from 30 minutes to 90 minutes to run the wash cycle; the length of time in the wash cycle primarily varies based on the cycle selected. Drying time is generally more variable. Non-vented units generally take 45 minutes to 180 minutes to dry a load. Drying times vary based on the size of the load in the dryer and the type of laundry being dried. For example, heavy fabrics such as denims or towels take longer to dry than lighter fabrics like t-shirts. 220 Volt units can dry in up to half the time, and vented units will also shorten the drying time.

benefit thumb

What are the major benefits of combos?
The number one benefit is the compact size: they are smaller than most washers or dryers. In fact, many people install these units under their kitchen counter, because they only take up about as much space as a normal size dishwasher! In addition, casters allow the unit to be rolled around with ease whenever needed.

Also, the efficiency of combo units not only saves you money by using much less energy and water to operate than standard washers and dryers, but many utility companies offer rebates for purchases of energy efficient appliances. Check with your local utility companies for eligibility.

Not only are these units extremely energy efficient, but they wash much better (and gentler) than standard washers. Combos use a front load washing design that utilizes a horizontal axis drum. This eliminates the agitator common to top load washers. In top load washers, the agitator is both very inefficient at cleaning and very rough on clothes. The horizontal axis drum on combos mimics washboard clothes washing, raising the clothes out of the water and soap and plunging them back in. Finally, the high rpm’s of the spin cycle of these units gets water and soap residue out of your clothes much better than normal washers do. This efficient and thorough cleaning process is especially helpful for people with sensitive skin or allergies to laundry soap.

Benefits of Washer and Dryer Combo Machines

silver-lg-washer-dryer-combo-15-lb-washing-machineThough washing machines are in use for many decades, periodical up gradations have helped the utility to become more sophisticated and user friendly. Early models were semi automatic and needed manual control in its operations. Fully automatic models emerged to cater the needs of those who have hectic lifestyles. Newer models enhanced the operational convenience and efficiency. Innovative ideas are being incorporated into the designing and manufacturing of this most sought after machine. Washer and dryer combo is one of the latest innovations.

There are many advantages for washer dryer machines. One significant plus point is its price tag. A combo machine is considerably cheaper than the conventional washing machines. Like any other product, this machine has both advantages and disadvantages. But the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Its popularity indicates the benefits that are offered to the user. The compact unit is comparatively smaller in size and therefore is a space saving option. For this reason those who live in apartments or small houses prefer it to the conventional models. Another remarkable feature is the energy efficiency. The user will be able to save water, electricity or gas substantially.

Of course there are few disadvantages like the capacity and the speed. Only fewer clothes can be washed and dried at a time. It takes more time to wash and dry clothes than its conventional counterparts. So the users will have to wash clothes in separate batches. But despite such insignificant disadvantages, the consumers prefer the machine for the benefits it offers. Taking into consideration the efficiency and the low cost, small families and those who have shoe string budget will prefer the combo machines.

The users should take cue from the tips offered by the experts. It is better to use liquid detergents instead of powders. Similarly only liquid fabric softeners are to be used. Excess use of detergent should be avoided. Too much of suds will adversely affect the cleaning process. Both detergents and softeners are to be stored in the dispensers provided. They are to be cleaned periodically to remove the residues. Rinsing will be difficult if excess quantity of detergents and softeners are used. Repeated rinsing will result in the increase of water consumption.

Due to the surge in demand for Washer Dryer machines, market is flooded with several brands and models of the products. Internet is a good source to obtain details about the machines. The consumers should follow the instructions regarding the usage and maintenance of the machine. It is better to choose a reliable dealer. The online dealers offer warranty and free shipping. Their price tags are comparatively favourable to the consumers, but the shoppers should verify and make sure of the return policy and the after sale service facilities.

Why a Washer Dryer Combo Makes Sense

LG WM3431HW Washer Dryer ComboStacked washing machine and dryer units have the washer at the bottom and a garments dryer at the top and necessitates users to actually move clothes from the washing machine to the dryer between laundering cycles. An all-in-one unit is smaller, doing both laundering and drying out cycles within the same space. These washing machine and dryers combo units are excellent for small spaces. These washing machine and dryer combos are incorporated in the same machine, therefore they require less room than a full-size washing machine and dryer sitting adjacent to each or stacked on top of each other.

Appliances are either vented or vent-less. With a vented machine the dryer exhaust must be ventilated through the ceiling vent-hole already in-situ within the bathroom if that’s where you intend to locate your machine. Some kitchens also have vents to allow connection of your machine. Vent less condensing machines dry from inside the drum and so the water that’s pulled out from the garments run out through the drum and out of the machine via a water pump into a collection chamber which can be removed and emptied. The drying out procedure takes a longer time than conventional drying with a vented appliance.

Garments are often loaded through the top of the appliance, which is covered up with a hinged door. During the washing cycle, the outermost tub is filled up with water sufficient to suspend the garments freely within the basket, and the motion of the agitator draws the clothing downwards within the center of the machine toward the agitator paddles. Clothes may be taken out after the washing cycle and hung up up in the fresh air. If you still prefer to dry out any of the garments, you just set the dryer and begin the cycle midway along the spinning cycle.

Clothes dryers may cost anywhere from $200 to $1,400, depending upon if you need a full-sized machine or a more compact one. Clothing and additional articles do not necessitate washing within one appliance and then extracted and placed into a separate machine for drying out. Just as significantly, a combination washing machine and dryer is beneficial from the viewpoint of a launderette as each appliance can execute either procedure therefore permitting many machines to be used at once. A drying cycle may last anywhere from 1 to 4 hours and it is a long wait for freshly washed garments. Utilizing a separate washing machine and dryer would be faster.

An alternative to a freestanding dryer or combo appliance is the conventional drying out rack which may yet be really good and cost-efficient particularly if you have access to a garden to put it in. Clothes dryer stands can be quite easy to build. You can be imaginative and add other levels to the stand if you decide. Clothes drying out cabinets are a relatively new addition to the washing room. As the name indicates, they allow you to air dry clothes, especially those garments that aren’t intended to go within the dryer, in significantly less time than with normal air drying. Clothes drying out racks are constructed of a few poles about which you are able to hang up your garments. These stands can be folded up whilst not in use and are movable, so you are able to even carry them about whilst traveling.