LCD TV DVD Combi Confusion - The Strangest Questions Buyers Ask

Here is a selection of some of the more unusual questions from LCD TV DVD combi buyers. Our resident expert has added appropriate answers under each one:

Question -- Why can't I record TV programmes on the DVD player in my TV/DVD? Can an LCD TV DVD combi record programmes or is mine faulty?

Answer -- If your model has what is described as a DVD player, as most of them do, then you cannot record programmes onto it. You can only watch live programmes or those that have already been recorded onto DVD elsewhere.

Question -- My TV has a built-in DVD player and my young child pushed some marshmallows into the DVD slot. How can I clean the inside of the DVD player?

Answer -- It is very difficult to clean the inside of a DVD player without completely breaking it. If you feel that you have nothing to lose because it is not working anyway, you can try a little alcohol. Put some on the end of a cotton bud and very carefully wipe the inside of the player. I cannot stress enough that this is really not recommended unless it's a last resort.

Question -- Can I connect my TV/DVD to the phone so I can listen to daytime TV whilst doing housework?

Answer -- No, but you can get a pair of wireless earphones where the receiver plugs into the headphone socket found on most LCD TV DVD combi models. The range of a good headphone set will easily reach around an average-sized house.

Question -- The DVD player has broken in my TV/DVD. Can I get it repaired under guarantee if it is a month and four days outside the guarantee period?

This is a grey area. Under the Sale of Goods Act in the UK, goods have to be fit for purpose, and if it came to court, the court may rule that a TV/DVD that only lasts for 13 months was not fit for purpose, even if it was only the DVD component that had broken. However, you may not get anywhere without taking the matter to the Small Claims Court.

Question -- If I view obscene films on my seat-back TV/DVD in the rear of the car, is this illegal?

Answer -- It is very likely to contravene the law if the screen can be seen from a public area. If you are in your garage with the garage door firmly closed, it's between you and your conscience.

Question -- My neighbour has a lovely new LCD TV DVD combi in his caravan. It plugs into the cigarette lighter I think. I have an unwanted TV/DVD set in my spare room. How can I adapt this set to work in my van?

Answer -- The caravan sets run on 12 volts, whereas your bedroom one needs mains voltage; 240 volts in the UK. Therefore you cannot move your bedroom one into the caravan. Well, you can move it there for show, but it won't work.

It's always refreshing to see questions that are a little out of the ordinary; it makes a change from the usual ones. Hopefully you found the answers enlightening.