Panasonic to Launch Seven New Oblique Drum Washer-Dryer Models, Featuring Industry-First Cyclone System for Long-Lasting Drying Performance

Background on Drum-Type Washer-Dryers and User Concerns
Industry-First “Long-Lasting Drying Unit” for Sustained Performance
Enhanced “Triple AutoDose” for Easier Maintenance
Additional Features and Extended Service
Product Lineup and Release Information
Related Information

Background on Drum-Type Washer-Dryers and User Concerns

Drum-type washer-dryers, which combine washing and drying functions, are widely supported for their ability to save time and reduce household chores. They account for approximately 24% of the domestic market (according to the Japan Electrical Manufacturers’ Association), with increasing demand for replacements. Panasonic has been a pioneer in this category, launching the world’s first (as of 2003) oblique drum washer-dryer in 2003 and the world’s first (as of 2005) heat pump system in a washing machine in 2005. The company has continuously evolved its drum-type washer-dryers, focusing on efficiency, water and energy saving, ease of use, and superior finish.

Despite advancements, user surveys conducted by Panasonic (web survey, June 17-19, 2026, N=800) indicate that many users experience dissatisfaction with drying functions. Approximately half of the respondents who owned a drum-type washer-dryer for less than three years reported that drying takes longer or clothes dry less effectively than when they first purchased the appliance. This decline in drying performance, often characterized by longer drying times or uneven drying, is partly attributed to dust accumulation in the heat exchanger. Panasonic’s examination of over 200 actual units revealed that hair is a significant factor in this dust buildup.

Many users are aware of the issue of dust and other foreign matter entering the heat exchanger and causing a decline in drying performance.

Industry-First “Long-Lasting Drying Unit” for Sustained Performance

To address these concerns, the newly developed “Long-Lasting Drying Unit” employs a cyclone system that rotates air to collect dust and hair into clumps, capturing over 99.9% of hair that traditional mesh filters might miss (based on Panasonic’s experiments under specific conditions). This significantly reduces dust accumulation in the heat exchanger, helping to maintain the initial drying performance for a longer period. The collected dust and hair can be easily removed from the box by pressing a button.

Enhanced “Triple AutoDose” for Easier Maintenance

The popular “Triple AutoDose” feature previously required regular cleaning of the detergent tank and dispensing paths, typically every three months, to prevent clogging. The new models introduce the industry’s first (according to Panasonic research as of early October 2026) automated cleaning for the liquid detergent dispensing paths. Additionally, the tank design has been improved, further reducing maintenance effort and enhancing user convenience.

A survey by Panasonic indicates a strong desire among users to reduce the time and effort spent on daily chores.

Additional Features and Extended Service

Beyond the innovative drying and auto-dosing systems, the new models incorporate a low-vibration design tailored for Japanese housing environments and achieve reduced noise during washing cycles. Furthermore, models equipped with the “Long-Lasting Drying Unit” will have the application period for the heat pump unit cleaning service extended to five years after purchase. For more details on this service, please refer to the Panasonic website: https://panasonic.jp/wash/service/heatpump-cleaning.html

Product Lineup and Release Information

The new series includes seven models with a washing/dehydration capacity of 12.0 kg and a drying capacity of 6.0 kg, all offered at open prices. The release is scheduled for early October 2026.

Product Name	Oblique Drum Washer-Dryer
Model Numbers	NA-LX129FL (Left-opening) / NA-LX129FR (Right-opening) NA-LX127FL (Left-opening) / NA-LX127FR (Right-opening) NA-LX125FL (Left-opening) / NA-LX125FR (Right-opening) NA-LX123FL (Left-opening)
Capacity	Washing/Dehydration 12.0 kg / Drying 6.0 kg
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price	Open Price
Release Date	Early October 2026

Panasonic reiterates its commitment to being a trusted partner in laundry, listening to customer feedback, and offering laundry solutions that provide long-term peace of mind.