Washer-dryers, is it worth spending more?

[Changingagain]

We have a basic washer dryer which came with our flat 7 years ago, no room for separate appliances. It gets used for washing every day and stops mid cycle every couple of weeks. The dryer function doesn't dry at all so we have a heated airer. It's also very noisy.

We're thinking about replacing it but don't see the point in getting another that's likely to be the same so it's likely to be about £700 for a better one. We're looking at the lg fh4a8tdh4, but will it be worth it?

Have any of you with a combined machine found one that dries properly?
Is the noise level difference in more expensive models actually noticeable?
Are extra functions actually useful or just a selling gimmick? (I like the sound of steam refresh for getting rid of smells).

We have the added issue of being in a remote location, limiting what we can actually get delivered.

Thanks for any advice you can offer.

Do you need an integrated washer dryer or freestanding?
Washer dryers wash a full load but they will only dry half the washing as the dryer load us smaller.

I have an AEG - L75480WD washer dryer bought a couple of years ago, it was about £600. I read loads of Which and other reviews and concluded that cheaper than that the combined washer and dryer weren't so good, but much more expensive than that weren't much better.

It washes and dries very well, as pp said it's important to note you can do a far smaller drying load than washing, I do full load washing about half drying. As this one is a big load it's fine genrally.

I have had a few problems with it making strange noises, but I think I've just got unlucky with the particular machine and AEG have been very helpful with getting it looked at.

Hope that's useful in some way!