It serves a specific master: the kitchen designer and the property developer. It provides the "look" of a high-end, seamless kitchen without the accompanying price tag. While it may lack the heritage of a Miele or the innovation of a Samsung, it fulfills its role as the "invisible workhorse" of the British home. It asks a provocative question of the consumer: Do you want your appliances to be seen, or do you want them to work quietly in the shadows?
Longer drying than before → Condenser is clogged (clean it) → Heating element failing lamona washer dryer
The Invisible Workhorse: Appliance Anonymity and the Rise of the Lamona Brand Subtitle: How a trade-only badge redefined the aesthetics of the modern British kitchen It serves a specific master: the kitchen designer
To understand the Lamona washer-dryer, one must understand "badge engineering." Lamona does not own factories that forge steel drums or patent motor technology. They act as an aggregator. It asks a provocative question of the consumer:
| Pros | Cons | |------|------| | Space-saving (one appliance) | Drying capacity is ~50% of wash capacity | | No external venting required | Long cycle times (3–6 hours) | | Integrated – hides behind cabinet door | Cannot dry wool, silk, or heavily padded items | | Lower upfront cost than separate Miele/Bosch | Harder to find repairers outside Howdens network | | Good for small flats without outdoor vent | Lint cleaning is mandatory monthly |
Because Lamona is the chosen brand of volume housebuilders, their washer-dryers are often installed in properties where space is at a premium (e.g., a utility cupboard under the stairs).
They're definitely a budget offering, but largely fine. My Lamona Hob and Extractor have been grand. The transfer printed markings... Howdens https://www.howdens.com Lamona LAM8900 Integrated 8kg / 5kg 1400rpm White ... Featuring a large capacity, this model makes light work of bigger loads, making it a great option for larger families. Able to was... MoneySavingExpert Forum https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com howdens "lamona" appliances question - any good? Jan 10, 2010 —