LG WashTower WKGX201HBA Review Ultra Large Capacity Smart Washer Dryer Combo

Description

Strengths of the LG WashTower

Testing the LG WKGX201HBA 27 Inch Smart Gas Single Unit WashTower has been an interesting experience, especially considering its ultra-large capacity that can handle bulky loads with ease. The 4.5 cubic feet washer combined with a 7.4 cubic feet dryer makes it perfect for families or anyone with significant laundry demands. I genuinely appreciated the TurboWash™ 360 technology, which noticeably cuts down the wash cycle time without sacrificing cleanliness. The AI Fabric Sensor is a clever feature; it adjusts wash motions and drying temperatures based on fabric type, which spared my delicate shirts from unnecessary wear.

The smart ThinQ® technology is another major plus. Using the app, I could start, pause, or monitor cycles remotely, which was a lifesaver when I was away from home. The Allergiene™ cycle also stood out to me, especially since it’s certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. My daughter, who suffers from mild allergies, had her clothes cleaned with this cycle, and I noticed fewer irritations after wearing them. The black steel finish and tempered glass doors are not just durable but add a sleek, modern look that enhances any laundry room aesthetic.

• Handles large and bulky loads effectively
• Advanced AI sensors tailor wash and dry cycles for fabric care
• Smart app control with remote start and notifications
• Certified allergen removal cycle provides peace of mind

Limitations to Consider

Despite the many positives, there are some drawbacks worth mentioning before making a decision. The single-unit tower design is space-saving but can feel a bit cumbersome in tighter laundry rooms, especially given its height of over 74 inches. Moving the unit for maintenance or installation wasn’t exactly a breeze due to its weight and size. I also found the control panel, despite being full touch with LED display, occasionally a bit sensitive, leading to accidental changes in settings.

The dryer’s venting system requires careful installation; the included side venting kit is helpful but may not fit all home layouts easily. I experienced some minor issues with lint buildup, which the FlowSense™ duct clogging indicator helped identify, but it’s still something to watch out for. While the AI Sensor Dry™ is a smart feature, I sometimes noticed clothes coming out slightly damp when using the “Wrinkle Care” option, meaning a second drying cycle was necessary.

• Large size may not fit small spaces comfortably
• Sensitive touch controls can be fiddly at times
• Venting system requires precise installation and maintenance
• Occasional under-drying on delicate dry settings

Design and Build Quality Insights

The design of this washer and dryer combo really impressed me from the start. Its black steel finish resists scratches and fingerprints better than typical white or silver machines, keeping it looking fresh longer. The tempered glass doors with chrome accents give it a premium feel, and the streamlined tower shape saves floor space compared to side-by-side units.

Inside, the NeveRust™ stainless steel drum is built to last and avoids the annoying chips or snags that can damage clothes. The 4-tray dispenser is practical, allowing separate compartments for prewash, main wash, bleach, and fabric softener. This means no mixing of chemicals and better washing outcomes. The adjustable legs helped me level the unit perfectly on my uneven laundry room floor, reducing noise and vibration noticeably.

Advanced Features and Usability

Operating the unit felt intuitive thanks to the unified center control panel. It offers a variety of cycles including Normal, Bedding, Delicates, Heavy Duty, Speed Wash, and even downloadable cycles for customization. The 10 options on the washer and 9 on the dryer give users plenty of flexibility—TurboWash®, Steam, Extra Rinse, Sanitary, Tub Clean, Drum Light, Child Lock, Signal, Wi-Fi remote start, and more.

The AI fabric sensor really shines here, detecting load size and fabric type to optimize water, energy, and drying time. I tried this with cotton, synthetics, and delicate fabrics, and the system adjusted perfectly each time. The TurboSteam™ technology refreshes clothes and reduces wrinkles, which was handy for work shirts that I wanted worn without ironing. Plus, the SmartDiagnosis™ feature saved me a phone call to customer service by identifying minor issues before they became serious.

Value Proposition

Considering its features and capacity, this laundry system feels like a solid investment for anyone wanting a smart, all-in-one solution. The ability to control it remotely via smartphone and receive maintenance alerts adds convenience that’s hard to beat. Compared to traditional separate washers and dryers, this unit saves floor space without compromising load size or cycle variety.

While it may not be the cheapest option out there, the energy-efficient design (ENERGY STAR® qualified) and the durable materials like stainless steel drums and tempered glass doors mean it should last for years and reduce utility bills. In terms of price to quality ratio, it offers a lot for the money spent, especially if you value advanced tech and allergen control in your laundry routine.

Product Competitors

Comparing this model to other popular laundry towers like Samsung’s FlexWash or Whirlpool’s Smart Stack, some differences stand out. The LG unit’s AI fabric sensor and TurboWash™ 360 give it an edge in washing precision and speed. However, Samsung’s FlexWash offers a secondary smaller washer for delicates, which this single-unit tower lacks. Whirlpool’s models may be more budget-friendly but don’t feature the same level of smart tech or allergen-specific cycles.

In terms of drying, the LG’s TurboSteam™ and AI Sensor Dry™ provide intelligent drying with wrinkle reduction, an advantage over many rivals that rely on more basic timed drying. Installation-wise, some competitors offer more flexible venting options, so if your laundry space has unusual venting needs, that’s something to consider.

Downsides That Matter

I noticed a few pitfalls while testing that could influence potential buyers. The initial installation was not as straightforward as I hoped; the unit’s size and venting requirements meant I needed professional help to set it up correctly. The smart features, though impressive, sometimes felt overcomplicated for less tech-savvy users, especially older family members who preferred physical buttons over touchscreen controls.

Also, the noise level during spin cycles is not the quietest I’ve experienced; it’s tolerable but louder than some high-end competitors. Lastly, the app connectivity occasionally lagged or failed to sync, which was frustrating when trying to monitor cycles remotely.

• Professional installation often necessary
• Touchscreen controls may confuse some users
• Spin cycle noise louder than expected
• Occasional app connectivity issues

Performance and Real-World Usage

Using this washer and dryer on a daily basis, I found it handles everything from heavy blankets to delicate garments with consistent quality. The sensor-driven cycles adjust water and energy use, which is a relief for anyone conscious of environmental impact. The sanitary cycle is a bonus for families with kids or pets, as it provides deep cleaning that’s hard to get with standard washers.

My spouse appreciated the speed wash option for quick laundry emergencies, while I liked the downloadable cycles that let me customize wash settings based on specific fabrics we frequently use. Although the unit occasionally required a second drying cycle for very thick items, overall drying performance was excellent. The child lock and end-of-cycle signals are thoughtful touches that enhance usability for busy households.

This review reflects my hands-on experience with the LG WashTower as well as insights from other users, balancing its advanced features and smart technology against some practical challenges. It’s a compelling choice for those wanting a sleek, space-saving, and intelligent laundry solution that doesn’t skimp on capacity or cleaning power.

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