• GE’s new, high-efficiency washer and dryer pair allows consumers to manage laundry tasks, such as checking cycle status or adding time to the dry cycle, from their smartphones
  • Wi-Fi-enabled laundry pair rich in conveniences, including SmartDispense™ bulk detergent and fabric softener dispenser, large capacity and controls that take the guesswork out of cleaning clothes  

LOUISVILLE, Ky., — Jan. 27, 2015 — GE’s (NYSE: GE) new, high-efficiency washer and dryer pair— redesigned to meet new 2015 energy requirements—will hit the market in September with Wi-Fi capability and an app of their own. GE’s My Washer and My Dryer apps will allow consumers to manage laundry tasks—such as checking cycle status or adding time to the dry cycle—from their smartphones.

According to Nielsen, 65 percent of consumers have a smartphone1, and Flurry reports that consumers spend more than two hours on their phones each day.2 Given that four out of five women and two out of three men spend some time each day doing household activities, such as laundry, putting the app in appliances benefits most American households.3

“Checking on the laundry while cooking dinner or putting the kids to bed is a convenience that will resonate with most people,” said Jennifer Schoenegge, product manager for GE’s topload laundry products. “Laundry tends to be the forgotten chore until you need that favorite pair of jeans or a soccer uniform. Having an app on your phone makes the chore of laundry easier by keeping you up-to-date on what is happening in your laundry room without having to be there.”   

GE’s new, high-efficiency washer and dryer pair allows consumers to manage laundry tasks, such as checking cycle status or adding time to the dry cycle, from their smartphones.

GE’s My Washer and My Dryer app factors in what consumers need most from a connected laundry pair: 

  1. Monitor cycle status and time remaining. There is no need to constantly visit the laundry room waiting for your laundry to finish.  The app will allow you to see how much time is left until the cycle completes.
  2. Signal to an open door. With laundry rooms tucked out of sight, forgetting to switch loads from the washer to the dryer is pretty common. The app can remind you when you have forgotten to move a load from the washer to the dryer.
  3. Download custom specialty cycles from the cloud. Consumers can preset cycles they use most, such as Active Wear or Quick Wash.
  4. Display levels of SmartDispense™ tanks. Keep your reservoir full of detergent and fabric softener with the help of the app.
  5. Extend dryer cycle. Delay the rush to fold clothes and minimize wrinkles setting in. Keep that cycle going from your phone.

In addition to Wi-Fi connectivity, GE outfitted the new laundry pair with features that play into its research findings for laundry. Here are consumers’ top priorities when it comes to laundry:

  • Bigger is better. People want to accomplish more in less time, so larger loads are pretty popular. GE’s new topload washers boast at least a 40 percent larger capacity than the previous generation topload washers. Along with more room, the washer and dryers have larger openings, so pulling out that last sock can be accomplished without the capabilities of a yoga instructor. The new dryer can claim the title of “largest dryer door opening in the industry.”
  • Stains are so not my problem. Consumers don’t want to spend time muddling over how to remove mud stains. The new washer has a stain removal guide that identifies four of the most common stains and automatically adjusts the wash cycle to remove them. GE also takes the guesswork out of drying clothes with CleanSpeak™ technology. The dryer sets the controls for the next load automatically based on the wash cycle just completed.
  • Countdown to clean should be shorter. The time-saver option whittles cycle time by 10 percent. Check off your laundry chores more quickly.

The washer (GTW860SSJWS) has an MSRP of $1,099 and the dryer (GTD86E(G)SSJWS) has an MSRP of $1,199. Both come standard in white but can be upgraded to metallic carbon for an estimated $100 each.*

The smart home advantage
In addition to the convenience of what apps offer now, GE owners can keep their appliances’ software up-to-date, similar to updating a smartphone’s operating system. “As we add additional features to the appliances, it’s as simple as updating the app to receive the newest software for your connected appliances,” said Liz VerSchure, general manager for GE’s connected appliances.

About GE Appliances
GE Appliances is at the forefront of building innovative, energy-efficient appliances that improve people’s lives. GE Appliances’ products include refrigerators, freezers, cooking products, dishwashers, washers, dryers, air conditioners, water filtration systems and water heaters. General Electric (NYSE: GE) works on things that matter to build a world that works better. For more information on GE Appliances, visit www.ge.com/appliances.

1.  The U.S. Digital Consumer Report. Feb. 10, 2014. http://www.nielsen.com/. Accessed on Dec. 17, 2014. http://www.nielsen.com/us/en/insights/reports/2014/the-us-digital-consumer-report.html  
2.  Khalaf, Simon. “Apps Solidify Leadership Six Years into the Mobile Revolution.” April 1, 2014. Flurry.com. Accessed on Nov. 24, 2014. http://www.flurry.com/bid/109749/Apps-Solidify-Leadership-Six-Years-into-the-Mobile-Revolution#.VHNJ3Yflc7C
3.  American Time Use Survey Summary. June 18, 2014 www.bls.gov. Accessed on Dec. 17, 2014. http://www.bls.gov/news.release/atus.nr0.htm
*Retailers determine price.