The first combination washer/dryer with steam, the LG Electronics WM3988HWA is one of just a handful of models where washing and drying are both done in the same tub. We recommend this model, which is a novel machine for residences with limited space, only for homes where there is no possible way to vent a dryer.

The reason for this is simple. Although the WM3988HWA offers one-tub convenience, the dryer is challenging to use. As anyone familiar with condensation dryers knows, it takes a long time to dry clothing in this type of machine. Because the hot, moist air is not vented and relies instead on the condensation principle, a lot more time is needed to thoroughly dry a load.

Although we would suggest this model only for non-vented installations, it does have some unique features. These features may be of particular interest to you if a condensation unit is right for your home. LG's WM3988HWA is the first all-in-one model to feature a steam wash. Adding steam to a washer enables it to achieve heightened whiting without bleach. It also improves washer performance and may save on water and energy usage. Lastly, steam can be used to reduce wrinkles and refresh clothes without running them through an entire wash cycle. In fact, a refresh cycle can be run in as little as 20 minutes.

This washer offers LG's new Allergiene cycle. A cycle that is offered on this as well as other LG models, this setting activates a hot steam cycle that eliminates many allergens from fabrics. It works by heating the load with the added steam this model is designed to produce. For this reason, the Allergiene setting is available only on steam washers.

Both the steam concept and this all-in-one configuration are new to the market, making it difficult to access the long-term durability of this combo machine. We would consider purchase of the LG WM3988HWA cautiously for this reason and consider it for installations where a condensation dryer is the only alternative.


Pros: Uses steam to refresh and remove allergens, one tub does it all, many value-added features help justify high price
Cons: Dryer is slow, model uses lots of new and as yet unproven technology, an expensive option

Warranty
1 year, full; 2 years, control board; 7 years, motor; lifetime, drum