LG shows off a smarter washing machine, replaces the repairman with a phone

Forget calling out the repairman to tell you just what has gone wrong with that big washing machine of yours. In fact, forget the big washing machine, because LG has a plan to make both your reliance on the repairer and the size of the appliance even smaller.

Showed off this week in Sydney, LG has plans to change what we know about washing machines forever, with the “SmartWasher,” machines that include larger sizes for more washing, a “six motion washing system” that offers more ways to wash your clothes, and the ability to take advantage of an easy tech support function that can talk with an Android phone to find out what exactly is wrong for you to fix it yourself.

Smart Diagnosis in LG's SmartWasher may use NFC, similar to the Smart Ovens we saw from LG at CES earlier in the year.

“LG has become a leading brand in the laundry space by focusing on features that consumers are increasingly demanding – reliable, larger washing machines,” said Phillip Anderson, Head of Public Relations for LG Australia.

“The new SmartWasher machines are perfect additions to the new LG laundry line, bringing our best features together to produce a machine that will enable families to do fewer loads with the 10kg capacity and enjoy more free time.”

LG's front-loader SmartWasher

Both a front-loader and top-loader will be arriving in the range, each supporting similar features such as the smart diagnosis and six motion control systems, as well as the 10 kilogram capacity, but only the front-loader will arrive with a technology known as “TrueSteam,” which uses steam heated to temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees in a hot wash cycle to loosen allergens, dirt particles, and attempt to remove heavier stains.

Valued at $1599 RRP, the top-loader (WT-R10856) is rated for 4 stars on water and 2.5 on energy, while the front-loader (WD14070SD6) grabs a recommended retail price of $1899 with 4.5 stars on both the water and energy ratings.

Both feature 10 year warranties on the direct drive used in the washing machine, with the products coming to stores shortly.