I think the load sensing is done with a scale. It weighs the load and programs the wash accordingly. If you notice there is lag between when you start and when it sets the wash time.

I really like the sensor on the dryer that automatically stops it when it senses that the clothes are dry.

How likely would it have been 25 years ago for two men to discuss the awesome features on a washer/dryer? How times change...

Load sensing is done when the maching starts by looking at the average torque required to maintian the washspeed. Similar technology is also used to detect the load unbalance in a spin cycle by looking at the torque ripple.

I am in the market for one of these. How is it working out with this particular model Paul?

I think you wanted to link to the washer/dryer section http://us.lge.com/products/category/list/home%20appliances_laundry_washer|dryer%20combos.jhtml

I used to have one of the Equator washer/dryers, but the LG has a lot more features, which shows how you can do more with relatively little feedback.

For example, when the machine starts, it spins the laundry one way then the other. Since it's using a direct drive motor, measuring the torque needed to turn the drum lets it know the load's weight. I'm sure the automatic drying uses a moisture sensor, but since it knows the original weight of the load, it could easily determine how much water remained in the wash.

Also, the washer/dryer injects water in stages, so it can determine how much water the load has absorbed, reducing the amount of water needed for each load.

It also has a built in water heater, so you can keep your hot water heater lower then normal, saving energy. Eliminating the external venting also saves energy since you aren't throwing the head away.

During the course of a year, this washer/dryer combo saves enough energy and water to pay for itself. I think the United States is one of the few countries where washer/dryer combos aren't widely accepted. If you watch the HGTV home shows, you will see a washer/dryer combo in virtually every home, installed under the kitchen counter.

Of course the biggest benefit is that I don't have to dedicate a day to washing clothes, moving them from the washer to the dryer. I put in my load, start it, and leave. It takes about 3 hours and, when it's finished, the machine fluffs the clothes to eliminate wrinkles until I get home to fold them.

Vinod -- It's been great so far. Blinking lights, super quiet, lots of buttons, nifty noises, and, yes, it does a nice job of cleaning clothes.

I have a Hot Point top loading washer. The problem is after the clothes are loaded and the water is finish filling the washer will begin it's washing cycle. The middle part will start doing it's job but the drum will start to spin from the movement of the action I know it's not suppose to do that until later but it does it while the machine is washing. I can grab hold of the side of the drum and this will look like it should. But the moment i release it back to spinning it goes. Good People what causes this and is it something that can be fixed by myself? I can't afford to get a new one or repair it now because of these high gas prices we have at the moment. Any help will be much recieved.