The Top 3 Washers And Dryers As Rated By Consumers
Sun, May 13, 2007
Purchasing washers and dryers is a unique situation for every buyer. There are plenty of different styles and models that will work for each person. One person may want a top loader that is as big as they come while another may want a much smaller unit. You may be interested in energy efficiency while someone else is much more budget conscious in purchasing the best quality for their money. Nevertheless, several models of the newest washers and dryers are still rated highly among consumers who have bought and used them.
3 Top Rated Choices
Here is a look at some of the top rated washers and dryers available to you today.
Kenmore He
Although it costs more than other models that are similar to it, the Kenmore HE (3t 42933) offers a variety of benefits that consumers like. The energy savings is one of the best features of them all. It uses only 15.8 gallons of water during a standard cycle which is considerably lower than other models. It uses less electricity as well which cuts down on two energy costs in the average home considerably. It is a large 3.7 cubic foot machine which means that it can handle large family needs. It also has been noted for its ability to clean clothing well, removing more debris, stains and odors from the clothing. Other key area that is being raved about in this Sears model washer (dryer to match get superior ratings as well) includes its ability to keep clothing in tack, with less wear and tear on it.
LG Steam Washer
Another machine that is seeing rave reviews from consumers is the LG Steam Washer and Dryer (WM2487HWM) from LG Electronics. It is a front loading machine with all of the latest features on it. In addition, though, it features a steam wash. This particular wash is beneficial to those looking for a permanent press as they would get from the dry cleaner. It can easily and delicately clean clothing that would otherwise require a trip to the dry cleaner (restrictions apply; make sure you check the manual for particulars here before purchasing it.) The largest downfall of this unit is its price which is about $1300. Nevertheless, the pair together is designed to provide for highly efficient use with a variety of settings, even the ability to program your own “ideal” setting that you can use as you see fit. The washer has a drum size of 4.0 cubic feet, which is very large.
GE Front Loaders
The GE front load washer and dryer is another ideal pair with their ability to maximize energy efficiency, say most consumers that have rated them. The unit uses much less electricity and less water than any top loading machine. This pair (models DBVH512EF/GF and WBVH6240F) is designed to be high efficiency machines. The benefit here is in the way of cost, with these units being slightly lower in price than other similar units but still providing the high end quality wash and dry that you want. The size of the unit is smaller to fit into tight locations.
Finding the right washer and dryer is a personal choice, though. Compare other models to determine if they offer a better fit for your particular needs.
Popularity: 73% [?]
July 1st, 2007 at 8:48 pm
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January 12th, 2008 at 3:22 pm
Why are the front loaders just generally more efficient than the top loaders? How efficent are the “Energy Star” top loaders compared to the front loaders?
March 19th, 2008 at 3:20 pm
I read something once that remarked how white laundry was when slapped on rocks, as women in third world countries do.
The article said that side loaders replicate that action, just getting clothing wet and tumbing them.
There should be energy star ratings on the machines in the stores, so you can do your own comparison.
I called my local Home Depot and asked for the energy star rating. The salesperson told me the rating was for both washer and dryer. They were displayed together and the energy star stand up display spanned both machines.
I later found that this was wrong, that the dryers were the biggest energy users and manufacturers were not yet required to meet government standards, so they are terrible energy drainers.
I hate when sales people assume you are stupid and will lie to you to make a sale. Our local Radio Shack does that, as well.
It is best to research everything you can online before purchasing anything.
People say they use the steam machines instead of sending clothing to the dry cleaners. I contacted Whirlpool about their new steam machines and they replied they do not recommend their machines for even WASHABLE silks.
I have the Whirlpool duet side loaders, not the new ones with steam.
They make the Sears Kenmores, so they are very similar.
I love these machines. My whites come out so much whiter than they did in my old clunker.
I think I will stick to Whirlpool when I get a steam machine, and am somewhat surprised that they are not mentioned here.
July 12th, 2008 at 10:48 pm
I have had the misfortune of purchasing the GE Profile washer and dryer. After owning it for under a month the washer broke and flooded the basement where I live. The store I purchased these units at was kind enough to exchange for the GE frontloaders.
We paid to have them delivered and installed. The washer does not wring out the water efficiently, making me wonder how they could be so energy efficient. I usually have to run the dryer twice to get some loads dry.
I am discusted with the way it washes large loads or my floor mats.
So if I can save anyone heartache, stay away from GE products!! Their customer service is not helpful in anyway for products that do not work well, nor are they helpful if your basement is flooded by their machines. Thank god we went with tile floor!!
I wish I would have purchased Maytag again…
July 13th, 2008 at 12:30 am
Cat, thank you for the heads up on GE.
I will be sure to stay away from them.
I am sorry the rest of us have to learn from your misfortune.
July 29th, 2008 at 6:35 pm
I bought the new Whirlpool Duet Front Loader with steam. This machine did not work from day one!!! I took a day off from work to receive and install this machine. After all my efforts, it did not work. I called Whirlpool, which sent out a repairman two days later. I took another day off from work to meet him, and he informed me the machine had defective parts. He called me five days later and informed me the parts were not readily available. I called Whirlpool and explained I had not washed a single load in this machine, so I wanted a new unit. They stated their policy is to repair not to replace. It has been four weeks since I was last able to wash using my old machine…no sign of the replacements parts for the new machine yet.
August 19th, 2008 at 10:27 pm
Report them to the Better Business Bureau where you live. This is rediculous that you have never been able to use it. If you paid for it on a credit card dispute the charge. That will make them do something if they don’t get their money.
August 19th, 2008 at 10:45 pm
This is a lesson on using credit cards for large purchases, and not debit cards. With credit cards you have a chance of stopping payment. Corporations love debit cards because they get their cash immediately, or so I’ve been told. Also, with a cash back credit card, you are actually gaining something, if you pay the card in full at each bill and avoid their high finance charges.
February 18th, 2009 at 11:16 pm
fisher and paykel washer and dryer nothing but junk.
February 27th, 2009 at 9:06 pm
what about this mold and mildew problem? Has it been corrected by new designs, or is it still an issue? Are some worse than others? I’d love a front load, but not if they’re still a problem.
March 2nd, 2009 at 4:54 pm
I believe that no machine that uses water, unless it blows hot air, can remove all the water at each cycle. When I had a dishwasher with no hot air cycle I would see a bit of water left after the cycle was over. I have always left the lid or door open on an unused washing machine and the soap drawer, as well.
I would suspect that under the drum of top loaders there might be an amount of water left that was not drained.
I do wish consumer review magazines and online functions would review stuff like this. It is hardly mentioned, in fact, I have only seen it brought up here and it is a health issue. Who wants fungal contamination - or perhaps an attractor to insects?
Earlier I was lauding the benefits of purchasing by credit card, so long as you can pay in full each month. This way, you can cancel the payment on a piece of junk until you are made whole. It is easier than bringing the offending company to court. The Better Business Bureau, I am told, is paid for with money from the people they are supposed to be policing, and they also used to only keep a complaint on their books for 3 months, which is not that long. I would contact the attorney general’s office in the state of the company headquarters. Some attny’s general offices are very involved in consumer rip offs in their states.
I sometimes check the return policies on stores in which I intend to purchase an item and compare stores on that basis. My husband bought a notebook computer from one large store, even purchasing the store’s extended waranty. The thing broke and he had a really bad time with everyone pointing fingers to say someone else was responsible and then the laptop mfg said they would fix it and it was the longest wait. I do a lot of business with B&H which is usually near the lowest price, but if something went wrong, they replaced it, no problem. If you can prove another box/street store sells it for less, they will match the price.
Sometimes a small local store, if they still exist, is very good with service.
Even the best brands sometimes manufacture a dud, so the reputation of the store should also be a factor.
March 18th, 2009 at 2:39 pm
I have had the same Asko Washer and Dryer for 13 years. We had a front loader before most people in the US even knew what is was. That being said. The quality is excellent, but expensive, and customer service is very poor. Stay clear of Akso-for the customer service.
March 25th, 2009 at 1:22 am
how much energy does my ge front load dryer really use when i leave the power button on, but it’s not running. I need a little help with a household dispute
March 25th, 2009 at 1:23 am
how much energy does my ge front load dryer really use when i leave the power button on, but it’s not running. I need a little help with a household dispute
April 1st, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Is there actually a washer/dryer set that is worth uying. With all the negative reviews how do I know which one to buy. A year ago I bought a top of the line Fisher & Paykel Intuitive set. The washer tub chewed up my clothes from the start. Just last week the dryer quit heating. It wouldn’t be so bad because it did come with a two year warranty, but the salesman has been rude and condescending to me, as though I were imagining the problems. I am on the vege of selling the set and getting something else. But what?
April 29th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
I think jill’s post (the first one at the top) is hilarious. Instead of hitting the print button she commented it.
May 3rd, 2009 at 3:10 pm
The energy savings in front load systems is driven by the washing machine.
Top loads will use as much as 35 - 40 gallons of water per cycle and frontloads will use around 15. Additional savings show up in the form of less water used, less water to heat and less detergent to dispense.
We purchased the GE system. The washer spin cycle operates at approximately 1300 RPMs (Revolutions Per Minute) vs. 500 RPM on traditional top-loads. So if you’re using an older top load machine your cloths will come out of a frontload machine dryer. Less water usage (hot and cold) combined with dryer cloths, equals lower overall energy use and lower detergent costs.
Another feature I believe will benefit our household is the steam feature. Today we average $50 per month in dry cleaning costs. Our hope is that we can reduce those costs to near $0.
Purchasing a front load system is a major investment ($3000), however, with the tax credits and rebates being offered we believe that over time we’ll be ahead financially and certainly ahead environmentally.
May 4th, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Greg: What tax credits?
May 6th, 2009 at 4:18 am
When I filed my taxes this year I was asked if I had purchased any energy effecient appliances, I had not, so I had to pass on the deduction. I’m assuming it will be an option again next year and if so I plan to take advantage of it.
For more detail I would have to go back into my taxes to see where the credit was actually addressed. If you would like me to research it I can.
May 16th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
When I saw the tax credit discussion, I researched it. Some energy star appliances do qualify but there are no washers or dryers on the list. Most appliances are for HVAC, windows, doors, insulation, etc. You can see the Energy Star website for more info. Too bad!
July 1st, 2009 at 7:15 pm
Let’s see. You can buy or keep in repair your old reliable top-load conventional washer and dryer of proven design (say, Whirlpool top-load direct-drive model, same design since 1985). A washer dryer will cost about $750, less for scratch & dent. On the average both will last 8-10 years, sometimes more, before needing major repair. When they do break, you can readily get parts at reasonable cost and any repair tech (or even yourself, if you can use hand tools) can fix the washer/dryer.
OR you can pay $1000-$2200 or more for a new, color-coordinated high-efficiency consumer washer and dryer set that saves electricity and water. But because the high-spin design puts more load on the bearings, and because electronic controls (usually sourced from China) are part of the design, they last only about five years before major repair. When they do need repair, just a new electric motherboard can cost $500-600 - IF you don’t mind waiting a few weeks for parts. Or parts may no longer be stocked for it AT ALL because of constant model redesigns. So you pay another $1000-$2000 for a new matched HE washer/dryer set - every five years or so.
Which method do YOU think saves the most money over the long haul??? WISE UP, PEOPLE?
July 3rd, 2009 at 2:52 am
I could not agree more with Tom’s comments. I lived in Germany and still have family there, so I have a lot of experience with front load washers (that’ all they have). I also had a front load washer here. Whenever my family visits, they always comment on how they wish they could buy American top load washers. Much easier to use, clean cloths better and bigger than German FLs.
The problem with front load washers is in the basic design. They don’t use enough water to rinse away the scum that builds up on the top part of the outter drum. That’s what caused the fungal build up and bad smell. Top loaders don’t have that problem. Remember, water is what clean. Detergent helps water to be more effiecient. Whirlpool top loaders have a proven design, are simple to use, don’t have expensive electronics and last forever. I just replaced mine after 18 years of use with not one service call. The new one is very similar. NO THANKS TO FRONT LOADERS…
July 29th, 2009 at 2:01 pm
I bought a pair of Whirpool: the Gas Dryer is fine, but the Front Loaded Wahser Machine broke after 3 months of use . I figured out
the mechanism built inside (open the top cover lid, will see it) is not good design, it made by plastic, and its stiffness is low. Due to plastic made, there is high tolerance yields, and when it moves it got bended and stuck. there is little plastic pin sticking out that to stop the shaft when it comes on a circular path. I just increased the pin dia, by add a thin ring around it. and Problem solved. However, I will never buy the whirpool again.
Another comment is that: it is good to save the electricity but to save water is option; sometime I need to wash the cloth with more water into drum, but the program is locked with limit amount of water! considering you have cloth wiht more dirts, little water can not help ! Too Bad,,that most non-conventional wahser machines have the option of water level ,,,
I hope you all get my message !
Karen - a Design Engineer
July 29th, 2009 at 2:21 pm
btw, sorry for the typo, in the previous message, I’d to add this comment as a correct as well.
it is good to design a wahser machine with option of water level;
(this water level option should be the desirable water to be added, not extra rise time to be extended)
- The door lock should be well design and safe, I like Kenmore, but
recently I see the front door designed is less safety, a child standing nearby may have fingers trapped in nearby the hinge!
-Anyone knows about the quality of Samsung ?
July 29th, 2009 at 5:59 pm
We have had our Whirlpool which was the top of the line at the time. It has a steel barrel. We keep the door and tray open when not in use. We have never had a problem with cleaning or smell.
If we did have a scum build up we would use vinegar. Our machine is rare in that you can use regular detergent or HE. We always use HE to prevent scum buildup.
We really love our machine. I am so happy that we chose it.
August 20th, 2009 at 10:10 pm
We have had Whirlpool Duet Washer and Dryer for about 5 years. The dryer stopped working properly after 6 months. Numerous service calls over a couple of years, (extended Warranty) they replaced it due to lack of parts availability. The washer has had mold issues since new. The detergent tray has and front seal has been replaced 4 times. We have had other problems with them. We always leave the door open and the tray open to dry properly but nothing seems to help. Clothes no longer smell clean the the dryer takes as long and the old non-HE that it replaced. We loved them for the first six months but now hate them . The Washer is no broken again and waiting for the technician. They are now out of warranty and we have dreaded this day. The stupid washer wont even turn on anymore. Not lights no nothing. Look like we will be in the market for some old fashioned top machines.
August 20th, 2009 at 10:30 pm
Gee, Jeff, I guess we are just lucky.
You would think if you had repair records for all those times that they had not repaired it properly under the warrenty and are STILL responsible.
Does your state have a Consumers Advocate or maybe you could contact your Attorney General’s office and they could do something to help you. They might have other such complaints.
I know there are stores in my area that have the reputation of selling second inventory merchandise - stuff that was returned but repaired in a back room and sold again.
I am sorry to hear you’re going through all that.
September 4th, 2009 at 10:53 pm
The issue with mold is a big deal. Two major manufacturers of front loaders have class action suits filed due to mold contamination of washers and clothing. You can minimize this by keeping the door open (except Electrolux because their interior light stays on) or by periodically running a bleach cycle without laundry (if your washer permits). There are some aftermarket cleaners that may help. You can avoid the problem by buying a Samsung that can place silver ions in the wash. The silver ions kill bacteria and mold.
September 8th, 2009 at 5:29 am
Good info, Doc! Thanks.
September 8th, 2009 at 10:26 pm
I have a mold sensitivity and have had no problem with my HeWhirlpool. I don’t close the door or try when inactive. I also leave my dishwasher ajar. I suspect anything that contains water of harboring mold.
I did not realize that silver also killed mold. THank you.
September 23rd, 2009 at 3:29 pm
JUST A WORD OF ADVICE FOR MOBILE HOMES OR CONVENTIONAL HOUSING- front loaders are not meant for these types of homes. I have a mobile home and purchased front loading washer and dryer from sears and although I loved the washer and dryer the spin cycle shook the entire home - when I called the company they told me that I should have been informed by the sears associate that these machines are not meant for upstairs, mobile homes, or conventional housing (on concrete blocks) because of their power in the spin cycle. I was very dissapointed to send them back for my regular washer and dryer and that is why I would like to know if the new Steam Washer and Dryers have a spin cycle or not?
October 3rd, 2009 at 12:52 am
The GE washers have issues…if the circuit board which rest on top of the motor goes out, you must replace the entire motor because you cannot detach the circuit board from the motor. The cost just for this part is $200. This is such a waste of a good motor and a very poor design in putting the circuit board on top of a hot motor.
October 3rd, 2009 at 5:45 pm
I purchased a Maytag stacking w/d set in 1984. We had a leak once on the washer which cost $200.00 to repair and the heating element in the dryer went out once which my husband repaired for around 60.00. It’s still going strong to this day,however, I can’t put in anything really heavy like a load of just towels or levi’s as it goes off balance but other than that I love it. I’m scared to buy something these days based on all the comments!
October 18th, 2009 at 12:00 am
We just returned from washer/dryer shopping again…no luck. I have a top loading Inglis washer that is 14 years old and works fine however I require a new dryer. After looking at the dryers on their own we though it might be better to replace the whole team now…until I read about mold issues and frequent breakdowns. We were acually very close to purchasing a GE team until we were offered the extended warranty…the sales person explained that this was a good investment considering major appliances only lasted on average 8 years!. Can anyone offer an opinion on the Samsung models? or recommend a good dryer on it’s own?
October 29th, 2009 at 3:16 pm
I purchased the GE front end washer and dryer set in May 2007. It had only a 1 year warranty and because it was rated so high by consumers and the store was going out of business and didn’t offer an extended warranty, I didn’t get one. This week, 2-1/2 years later, the washer started making a terrible noise. Repair man at $197.00 for the service call, tells me it will be over $800 to repair, just about the cost to replace. Not getting another GE, didn’t hold up and warranty wasn’t very good.
October 29th, 2009 at 3:33 pm
People might consider holding off in the purchase of a new dryer because the washers are now environmentally friendly and energy saving due to government regulations.
Dryers are still pretty much the way they have been decades ago, regarding energy efficiency, from what I have heard.
I read that there is a deadline for the same thing to happen to dryers, but forgot when that is.
November 1st, 2009 at 10:23 pm
After one week of having two brand new Kenmore He steam washers and dryer, I have returned everything to the vender. The washer’s door would not open when plugged or unplugged on both (the new and replacement washer), test cycle could be conducted, delay cycle could not be over written, reboot failed, and my laundry room served as storage while the vender’s customer service reps and technicians made every attempt to convince me to work with them on troubleshooting the issues. I have heard it all from the mother board need to be reprogrammed, select another wash cycle, to leaving the washer unplug for 8 hours. All of this for a new washer, what, please I can’t be patient any longer. In search of front load washer and dryer!!!
November 13th, 2009 at 8:48 pm
Don’t buy the Kenmore HE Elite Front Load Washer. HE3t Elite model #44832 broke after only 4 years. The parts alone are over $500.00. Kenmore repair service wanted to charge $1200 to fix it.
It’s not like the old days. You can NOT trust Sears!
December 28th, 2009 at 4:05 am
Forget front loaders. What brand of top loaders and dryers are recommended? I have whirlpool now and both of them have had to be repaired. They still don’t work properly.
Isn’t there a company out there that feels a good reputation for many years from loyal consumers is worth more than a couple of years of profit from pissed off consumers.
January 3rd, 2010 at 5:46 pm
FRONT LOAD WASHERS? Wow, What a P.I.A. I have had mine for about 2 yrs now, I am now facing my 3rd break down! Each have been “Stupid” issues, But have Totally Disabled the Washer, until the part can be Ordered, Delivered & then Installed! Clothes get pretty Ripe after a 6 week or so without being washed.!! What do you do while awaiting this repair process?? Laundry Mat? That is Such an Expense, Could have bought 3 washers for the price of that service. I have one comment to make: I love being able to do Large Items/Loads in the front loader… BUT, a Top Loader ‘CAN BE’ used - With Certain Issues going on, they dont just leave you Instantly Stranded!!!! Think I will go buy a couple Top Loaders & Take my “In Need of Another Repair” Front Loader -
January 26th, 2010 at 5:09 pm
Dear Barb: we recently (last week) purchased a Samsung 419 steam front load washer at sears. It was delivered this friday (today is tuesday) and been using it all weekend to try. I personally think it cleans really well. It takes a LONG time to wash in normal cycles (about an hour to 1:30 min.). But it works great. Also it has lots of options like steam, and the silver Ions that someone commented earlier. I previously had a top load Maytag Atlantis which I absolutely loved!! I wish I could have bought that one all over again though just for one reason: even tough the RPMS for the spin cycle in the samsung are 1200 and it has different settings for the force of the spin, it still leaves the clothes a lot weter than my old top load maytag did. Can somebody explain this??
I already called samsung, they will send somebody to check it soon (or so they said). I am very disappointed for this reason only, because the dryer takes longer to dry and I have to run it twice sometimes. The people at Samsung said that should not happen, but we’ll see. The problem now is that if I take it back, sears will charge a 15% re-stocking fee which i think is ridiculous for something that doesn’t work the way is supposed to. If someone can offer advise on this I will greatly appretiate it. Thank you. Ary
January 26th, 2010 at 7:00 pm
I’ve had my Whirlpool top load washer and dryer since 2004. They clean and dry really well, however, my towels look like they’ve been scratched by hysterical cats! I can’t tell which of the two machines is doing this. I’ve checked for errand tooth pics, screws, paper clips and any rough spots on the interior of both machines. Whirlpool said they have not heard of this. I’m totally puzzled why this is happening. I have a closet full of beautiful towels that I can’t use because I know what they will look like after several washings. It only happens with terry cloth, no other fabrics are affected. Has anyone heard of this? None of my co workers have. I’m about ready to shop for new machines, but don’t know what “feature” to avoid that may be causing this problem.
February 2nd, 2010 at 8:41 pm
I have read all comments ( WHICH ARE MOST ALL NIGHTMARE SCENARIOS) on this site about front load washers/dryers. IS THERE ANYONE OUT THERE THAT HAS SOMETHING REALLY GOOD TO SAY ABOUT MAKERS/MODELS OF FRONT LOADERS THAT ACTUALLY LAST FOR MORE THAN 2-4 YEARS.
February 3rd, 2010 at 4:35 pm
Consumer Opionions.
Yes, I can say something good about front loaders.
As a large authorized repair center (30 employees) for major brands like Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, JennAir, LG, etc I enjoyed reading these posts. I often wonder who these “consumers” are that rate these appliances. I personally rate appliances on three thing. 1. Does it do the job it was designed for? (wash dry etc.) 2. Will it last a long time. 3. If it breaks down what will it cost to fix it? Of course if you call Sears for the last one you can pretty much be assured it going to be expensive. (Hell-o, Sears, did you purchase our maintainance agreement?)
Our employees are able to purchase most products at personal use pricing which is well below retail or sale prices. At this posting ALL but 1 of the technicians and 4 of the office staff now own Bosch laundry and they all love them.
No product is perfect, yes you may find posts elsewhere that disagee with our experience. But these laundry pieces (and the Bosch dishwasher)are well made, do the job without a lot of gimicks (like steam), and are not expensive to repair.
Many people equate Kenmore into Whirlpool as the manufacture. In recent years this is no longer true. In fact most of the high end laundry with the Kenmore name is now LG. As an LG servicer we find customers are mostly pleased with their LG producsts (except the dishwasher is a dog). The replacement parts for the LG products concerns me as LG is the only source for repair parts. Several times they have been unable to ship to anyone due to various problems like computors, holidays etc and there is NOWHERE to get parts so we just have to wait. The price for some of these parts is outrageous. I hope you find this information useful.
February 9th, 2010 at 5:41 am
Woody,
Good info, thanks. What is your take on the total cost of operation for a front loader versus a top loader? Purchase price, repair cost, water cost, energy cost, and life expectancy? Is a Bosch front loader economical on a total cost basis? I’m all for saving water and energy, but building parts for repair or replacing machines will use far more water and energy than I can save with a front loader. If your folks had to pay retail-like prices, would they still love their Bosch front loaders?
Our Maytag top loader is 27 years old, and the more I read about the new gear, the better it looks. Listen, I even think it sounds better!
February 10th, 2010 at 7:39 pm
Woody,
Thank you for your post. I completely agree with Confused. I’ve been researching washers on a number of sites and I’m extremely concerned that I’m about to waste $1,000 on something that will break and be worthless right after the warranty expires. My mom and mother-in-law each bought a Kenmore HE3 when they first came out and have never had a problem. I wish I’d bought one when they did.
February 10th, 2010 at 10:56 pm
At this point in the equation, regarding energy savings is mute topic except when you compare against the older top loaders like the Maytag which obviously use more water. Comparing one front loader to another is not going to realized any measurable savings one vs. another. But your question about top loaders vs. front loaders and costs, the front loaders win hands down now.
Less water, less detergent and other additives, better extraction so drying times are reduced (more savings), better rinsing.
A little more difficult to work on, especially with the pedestals installed but less moving parts. But less moving parts to wear out.
Most major failures of front loader is caused by incorrect types and amounts of detergents.
Look closely at the energy tags. HOW MUCH MORE engergy savings do they want to milk out of these things?
Walt’s Maytag. Now there is a work horse who the industry and the government killed. We always repaired them when needed because they would still run for years after that. Sorry, those days are gone.
February 13th, 2010 at 1:44 am
Now, all that reading was entertaining… with all the stores having sales and NY having an enery rebate on washers I was thinking about replacing mine ( Walt, I agree !!! My Maytag pair was bought in 1984 and except for a noise on spin cycle of the washer ( only recently), they both work great.) However, the noise concerns me… so, I was looking for info… my co-worker has Bosch and after a year has had nothing but problems and w/3 kids has been going to the laundry mat - cant’ fix it, no parts, etc, blah blah blah, more excuses. But it sounds like any brand ( make that every brand ? ) has problems… yikes.
February 13th, 2010 at 5:35 am
Besty, “one bad apple doesn’t spoil the whole bunch girl”.
Bosch builds a European version of their product called the Axis. The larger more common machine was the NEXXT and is now called Vison. I have heard many stories of parts not being available etc for every brand. Usually when investigated closer it was not the manufacture, but the repair company (usually not authorized) that was the delay.
Bosch has a website for authorized service companies and distributors to use. I can, any time day or night, log on and research any model and INSTANTLY know if they can provide the part. If the part is not available I can contact customer relations thorough a dedicated line for service companies and request assistance locating the part. In addition there is a free service for service companies in which placement of a single part number into a data base will search many of the independent parts distributors for availablity. Cool huh!
Your noise in you Maytag may be from water leakage under the tub which may have gotten into the spin bearing. You can remove the front easily to see if there are signs of this. If so, considering the age of your machine, yes, you may want to replace it. If that is not the cause, just keep using it till it dies.
Good Luck
February 15th, 2010 at 4:31 pm
After reading all these reviews I’m starting to think we should all go back to hand-washing and drying our clothes. Just bought a pair of LGs yesterday and after reading all the reviews I’m pretty anxious to reverse my order.
Is there any one company that has “less” isuees than the others?
February 15th, 2010 at 5:07 pm
Dear J, I recently wrote a review about a Samsung 419 front loader. It didn’t spin the clothes enough so they would come out pretty wet still. The Samsung service never called me back until a week after, which I was not going to wait that long so I called Sears. Sales person at Sears was very very appologetic of our problem and said that shouldn’t happen with the washer. So we decided to return it and exchange it for a LG 2101. It doesn’t have as many technologically advanced cleaning features as the samsung, but it cleans great and it spins the clothes very very good. I’m very happy with it, I’ve had it for about 2 1/2 weeks and so far so good. I used to have a Maytag Atlantis and honestly I think these front loaders do a much better job at cleaning the clothes. I was in love with my top loader maytag, but now I am begining to fall in love with this front loader. So I wouldn’t regret getting those LG’s.
February 15th, 2010 at 11:52 pm
Dear J,
I guess you just passed over my post. We deal with over 100 service calls A DAY. For the time being there is nothing going into any of our homes in laundry except Bosch.
LG has a problem. If they make a mistake on the service company parts account they won’t ship parts until it is rectified. They have NO regard for the customer who needs the part. Until this policy is resolved I can no longer recommend LG.
February 18th, 2010 at 6:46 am
boy am I glad to come upon this post. I do indeed need to buy both a washer and dryer and am scared straight. Paying someone upward of $2000 for something that will not deliver….
best set according to good housekeeping:
LG SteamWasher with Allergiene; Model # WM3001 ($1,699 - $1,799)
LG SteamDryer with TrueSteam; Model # DLG3002 / DLEX3001 ($1,499 - $1,599)
Did anyone have any experience with these?
If you have to buy a new set which one would you go for?
I know a lot of people like top loading but they really do not wash that good, need a lot of detergent, and often get unbalanced.
I like the energy and water savings options for the front loading washers but do you really need all the top of the line options?
By the way we have a lot of laundy (like 5-8 loads per week).
February 18th, 2010 at 5:36 pm
IRENA, Please read my post just above yours. Stay away from LG. You mentioned Good Housekeeping. BOSCH has the GOOD HOUSEKEEPING seal of approval (for whatever that is worth).
YOU DON”T NEED STEAM. You can’t remove stains like blood with steam. What would you need steam for other than to plug up and cause a service issue. You want a machine that gradually heats the water to remove stains. The best use of any kind of steam is in the dryer. Bosch has a feature called “mist care” in their dryers.
I know I sound like a commercial, but I have used all these products in my own home and so have my customers. The women in my family (7 of them) LOVE the mist care feature and the love the stain removal feature in the Bosch as they have little children who stain everything.
Be sure to get a model with AQUA STOP. It prevents floods should a problem occur.
February 18th, 2010 at 6:38 pm
We need to buy a new Washer/Dryer for our new upstairs laundry. Woody, I hear ya on the Bosch~ what is the Model Number for the Vision? I saw several. I want something basic. Is there a “matching” dryer? I did go to a separate website to see that various Visions received high rating 4.5-5 stars. Also, any comment on the Silver Ions in the Samsung for the Mold problem. ( we had that in our Whirlpools.)
thank you
February 25th, 2010 at 10:16 pm
I’d prefer to to get you in the form of guest blogger on our web log. Hope you wont refuse.
February 27th, 2010 at 1:21 am
I bought a maytag Neptune frontloader at Sears Scratch and Dent in Nashville, TN January 2001. It had been ‘repaired” I grew up with front loaders..this was from ‘61 on, my elderly mother just bought her 4th front loader, a Boshe..she had a Maytag that she cursed. Both her Whirlpool frontloaders lasted close to 20 years. I had top loaders allmy married ife, Whirlpool, GE, Amana, and the best and cheapest was HOtpoint…it was ooad as could be, but lasted the longest and washed the best of my top loaders. I was only averaging 2-5 years before I’d have problems with my top loaders. I gave my last top loader (which was a GE Profile_) to my daughter in ‘01, it was 2 years old, she has never had a problem. Now regarding my Maytag front loader. I loved it from day one, never had a problem till recently, I get this nasty brown stuff that looks like paper all over my cloths. I have ran the washing machine cleaners through it, it works for a short time, then the crap comes back. I have always used HE Wisk or HE Tide, but my machine allowed regular detergent also. My problem is the big rubber gasket, it has ripped, sonow I am looking for a new front loader. I have a Whirlpool dryer that is 16 yrs. old, it does have the setting that senses the dryness of one’s clothes, but it is getting up there…although I do use my clotheline in the summer. I want a large drum of over 4 cubic ft., and a steam dryer, so I can put my king size down comforter in it. I want over a 7.5 cubic ft. dryer. Any ideas? I haven’t seen a large Boshe out there.
February 27th, 2010 at 2:55 pm
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February 28th, 2010 at 1:31 pm
Woody, thanks for all the info. Our Whirlpool Duet front loader washer that only 7 years old is now DOA. The rear bearing has gone out and made the drum wobble and damaged the front housing. I have decided not to spend another dime on this piece of junk. We picked up a used top loader for cheap for now to give us some time to shop. Your input is greatly appreciated. I have heard good things about Bosch. Was looking at the Samsung but didn’t want steam and that was all they were offering at the store we were at. I think I will shop for a Bosch set. I will never own another whirlpool product. Not just because of the problems with these but because of there customer service. I contacted them and about all the problems we had and all they offered was 10%off of a new set. Like I would go out and do that. Thanks again for the info.
March 5th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
Pretty cool post - raises some interesting points for debate. I just stumbled upon your blog this morning and wanted to say that I have really liked browsing some of the posts. Anyways, I’ll be subscribing to your feed and I hope to read more very soon!
March 5th, 2010 at 11:36 pm
I have a stacking Maytag Neptune unit and the washer has stopped spinning. Unfortunately, the repair bill could likely be around $500, so now I am considering buying a new washer and dryer. My unit is connected so I either fix it or buy brand new. I LOVE MY FRONT LOADER. I want another front loader and read the review about buying a Bosch. My mom has a Bosch, and she gets mold around the rubber gasket. She’s probably had them for five years I guess. Is this a continuing problem or have they fixed it? If you’re recommending Bosch, what particular model do you recommend? Also, what about Frigidaire? I’m just not sure who makes what anymore. Thanks so much.
March 6th, 2010 at 11:27 pm
If you really like your Maytag then it might be worth the price to repair it. Part of the question would be if the manufacture date and model of your Maytag. If it is a front loader then you would want to make sure it had all the updates to it.
Mold in ANY washer is usually caused by not using HE detergents and too much detergent in the washer. Many brands have this problem when those conditions exist.
Frigidaire made most if not all of the washers these previous posts were about. I never have recommended a Frididaire or Electrolux product to any of my customers, I am just not a fan for many reasons.
As far as which Bosch to consider, there are not that many choices. My favorite washer right now is the WFVC6450UC and a mist care dryer. You might find you won’t use those features.
Good luck. It’s all very confusing even for those of us very close to the products.
March 11th, 2010 at 8:55 am
Thanks for making the effort to describe the terminlogy to the newbies!
March 11th, 2010 at 1:39 pm
I do not like the LG one bit, granted I bought the lower end model but the thing is they use so little water it is not enough to get the laundry clean. The LG washer dryer is TOTALLY inefficient in that you must wash for a LONG time to get things clean and always use the “extra water” feature….it’s a rip and I want to say to anyone even thinking of getting a LG combo….DON’T!
March 11th, 2010 at 4:07 pm
Tina RE: LG
You did say the LG COMBINATION WASHER & DRYER? Is the correct?
If so I have yet to find ANY COMBINATION washer and dryer that satisfy a customer. These little COMBO machines are barely ok for special situations like motor homes and second laundries or limited space where nothing else works.
You have already purchased yours so here is a tip. The tub in a regular size dryer is substantially larger than the tub of a regular or standard washer. This is such so the clothes will have room to tumble. Your combo machine, if that is what you have, uses the same tub to both wash or dry. So when you intend to wash and dry make your wash load half the size of the tub. Do not fill it.
This will also provide more water for the wash cycle. These little combo’s weren’t made to do a very large load.
Again, this advice is for ANY combination machine. Any combo machine I have experience with, even if they work, given much use they break down frequently. Sometimes that is better than nothing at all. Good luck
Although not my first choice, the larger LG machines seem to have decent satisfaction rating.
For all you Sears Kenmore fans, LG is building many of the Sears Kenmore models now. I’ll leave it up to you to know if that is good or not. As Forest Gump said “Buying an appliance with the Kenmore name on it is like a box a chocolates. You never know what you are going to get”
lol
Repair Question? Post it in the Forum
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