LG’s New Washer-Dryer Combo Fixes Its Biggest Flaws
▼ Summary
– At CES 2026, LG unveiled a new ventless washer-dryer combo that completes a full 10-pound load in about 90 minutes, a significant 30-minute improvement over previous models.
– This machine uses advanced heat pump technology, eliminating the need for a vent and allowing flexible installation anywhere with a water hookup.
– The appliance features AI load detection that adjusts water usage and drying time based on load size, along with smart dispensers for detergent and fabric softener.
– The ventless system uses dry-air drying, which is gentler on fabrics and mimics natural outdoor drying to help clothes last longer.
– While pricing and exact availability were not announced, the new model is expected to launch in early 2026 and cost closer to $3,000, a premium over the previous model.
The frustratingly long wait for laundry to finish is finally over, thanks to a breakthrough unveiled at CES 2026. LG’s new Signature ventless washer-dryer combo has slashed total cycle times to just ninety minutes for a full ten-pound load, effectively eliminating the biggest complaint that has plagued combo units for years. This dramatic thirty-minute reduction transforms the appliance from a space-saving compromise into a genuine convenience, performing a full wash and dry cycle in roughly the same time as using two separate machines.
This machine represents a significant engineering achievement. By leveraging advanced heat pump technology for drying, it operates entirely without a vent. This ventless design provides incredible installation flexibility, allowing it to be placed in any room with a standard water connection. For anyone tired of dedicating half their laundry room to bulky appliances, this new model makes consolidating into a single unit a truly practical decision.
Having personally used the previous generation LG combo for two years, I can attest to the core benefits even with its longer cycle. The sheer convenience of loading clothes once and returning to a fully dried load outweighed the extended time, especially in a compact living space. The new model’s ninety-minute cycle now matches the timeline of a standard separate wash and dry, removing that last major hurdle. While the premium price tag reflects its advanced technology, the time savings and space reclamation offer compelling value.
Intelligent AI features further enhance efficiency and fabric care. An AI wash cycle utilizes a built-in scale to detect load size, automatically adjusting water levels and drying duration for optimal performance. Smart dispensers for detergent and fabric softener ensure precise amounts are used every time, preventing waste. The entire system can be monitored and controlled remotely through LG’s ThinQ smart home app.
The drying method itself is also gentler on clothing. Instead of relying on intense heat, the system uses fast-moving dry air, a process that more closely mimics natural outdoor drying. This approach is less harsh on fabrics, helping garments maintain their integrity and potentially last longer through countless cycles.
While official pricing and a specific launch date are still forthcoming, company representatives indicate the new LG Signature combo will arrive in early 2026. Given that the previous model retails for over $2,000, it is reasonable to expect this next-generation appliance to carry a price tag approaching $3,000, positioning it as a premium solution for modern, efficient homes.
(Source: CNET)
