Time to buy a new washing machine

[RitaZ.]

My washing machine has died. Well, it has died for me anyway. It started making a strange grinding noise, then water (a lot) began to leak from the bottom. I have had so many problems with this washer/dryer set. The motor was replaced twice in the washer. It had some belt replaced. Knobs broke on both machines. Earlier this year, we did order a replacement part for the washer, which DH installed himself. After this latest problem, I'm done with them. I will not purchase Maytag products again. The quality of their products has really declined over the years.

So, I'm leaning toward buying an energy efficient set with large capacity. I plan to start looking tomorrow. I don't like front-loading washers, but may give them a chance. I've heard about the odor problem with those washers. Has anyone figured out a way to take care of this problem?

Anyone have a brand that has been reliable for them?

TIA

 

[Buckalew11]

I went looking on Labor Day weekend. I chose not to buy a front loader but did talk to the salesman about them. We did discuss the odor problems that some people have.

He told me that anytime you wash clothes in a front loader that you should then open the door up for a few hours. And the place that you put the detergent (looked sorta like a drawer) and in the middle of the opening, on the bottom seal, water collects there and you should always get a paper towel to dry that water up after use because it is not good for smells or the seals for the water to sit there.
I told him with all that maintenance I needed a housewife to take care of these appliances.

 

[RunningGirl]

I have a Kenmore that's 18 years old and has never needed a thing.

Great - I probably just cursed myself and it will flood the house tomorrow!

 

[RitaZ.]

I went looking on Labor Day weekend. I chose not to buy a front loader but did talk to the salesman about them. We did discuss the odor problems that some people have.

He told me that anytime you wash clothes in a front loader that you should then open the door up for a few hours. And the place that you put the detergent (looked sorta like a drawer) and in the middle of the opening, on the bottom seal, water collects there and you should always get a paper towel to dry that water up after use because it is not good for smells or the seals for the water to sit there.
I told him with all that maintenance I needed a housewife to take care of these appliances.

I hear you. I don't like the sound of that. I guess it's back to top-loading for me.

RGirl~ There is no way our set would last 18 yrs. I believe we bought ours in 2002 or 2003. The first motor replacement was within the first 2 years. Whenever I see a Maytag commercial, I have to laugh. The Maytag repairman is in denial.

 

[tinatark]

You can get HE performance in a top loader - the Oasis, Fisher & Paykel,etc... best of both worlds!

Check the laundry forums at www.thathomesite.com - great information!

 

[RitaZ.]

You can get HE performance in a top loader - the Oasis, Fisher & Paykel,etc... best of both worlds!

Check the laundry forums at www.thathomesite.com - great information!

Thanks! I'll check it out.

 

[debster812]

Fisher-Paykel!!!!!

We got one around 3 or 4 years ago, and I LOVE this washing machine. HE, Top Loading, Energy Star, Water Saver, many different cycles (DH often jokes that it sounds like I'm bringing in the Space Shuttle), spins SO fast the clothes are barely damp when they come out, and a HUGE capacity.

I've been willing our dryer to die for 3 years now, so we can get the matching dryer, but the washing machine is so efficient, and the clothes are barely damp when they get to the dryer, so it does not have to work so hard.

I think Lowe's is still the ony big box retailer to sell Fisher Paykel, there may be some local mom and pop stores, but Lowe's is it for big box stores.

 

[Buckalew11]

I'm using a dryer from 1970. Last year I had to have a belt replaced. The repairman said he wasn't sure he had a belt for a dryer that old. I was born in '65 so that dryer is OLD! lol I bought all new appliances that weekend. I also have a fridge down in my basement that is a GE, avocodo (sp) green. It is about a '65 model and runs terrific. It is just crazy how well they used to build them--except for the energy part!

 

[RitaZ.]

Fisher-Paykel!!!!!

We got one around 3 or 4 years ago, and I LOVE this washing machine. HE, Top Loading, Energy Star, Water Saver, many different cycles (DH often jokes that it sounds like I'm bringing in the Space Shuttle), spins SO fast the clothes are barely damp when they come out, and a HUGE capacity.

I've been willing our dryer to die for 3 years now, so we can get the matching dryer, but the washing machine is so efficient, and the clothes are barely damp when they get to the dryer, so it does not have to work so hard.

I think Lowe's is still the ony big box retailer to sell Fisher Paykel, there may be some local mom and pop stores, but Lowe's is it for big box stores.

I checked Lowe's website. The F&P washers/dryers won't be in our local stores until 9/24. All of them are energy efficient. I expected them to be more expensive than they are. Other than Lowes, there is a Sears Home Appliance Showroom not far from me that carries them. I think I'll stop by tomorrow to look at them.

When we bought this house, it came with an older Kenmore set. It wasn't avocado green, but it was looking worn. We replaced it with the Maytag set because we wanted a new set. So much for newer and "better". Overall, the quality of appliances has really declined.

Thanks ladies!

 

[olena]

I was dragged kicking and screaming to front loaders. DH wouldn't budge. I have no odor problems and it has been a year, because I'm vigilant with laundry. I never let clothes sit in the washer. When I do laundry, I make sure to factor in time and attention to transfer them to the dryer. My washer door stays open and after washing, I take a dry towel and wipe down the door seal and under the lip of the seal for excess water. I also wipe down the inside of the door. No odors so far.

Also, when shopping, do your homework on the models before going to the stores. Check Consumer Reports and also delve into reviews...the good and bad.

Once you've narrowed down your choices, head to the stores and bargain the price down. We ended up buying ours at HH Gregg and the sales guy knocked off at least $700-$800 off the set, because we were so hesitant. They didn't carry the mid-range model we wanted and he dropped the price of the ultra-deluxe, high-end steamer model so much that we got it. The tag on it said $2000, but we got it and a low-end dryer (who needs a steamer in washer AND dryer anyway) and deluxe installation for $2000....including taxes and taking away our old W&D. Negotiate the price and save a bundle. In this economy, you should be able to swing a good deal.


We have a Samsung, by the way, and it has been great in its first year.....*knock on wood*

 

[RadioNate]

The Whirlpool Cabrio is also an HE top loader. I know 2 people with them and they are both quite happy.

 

[tinatark]

I have the F&P aquasmart (no agitator) washer and aerosmart dryer. Very happy with both - you can wash "HE" or conventionally (full soak) in the washer, and the dryer is top load as well - it's convenient taking clothes out of the washer and into the dryer - but the dryer is kinda deep and sometimes I think I'm gonna fall in the dryer, taking the clothes out! The only thing I don't like about the washer is that there is no "quick wash" option - although there is a spin only and rinse only option, wash cycles, because of the HE, are longer. If you get the F&P non LED screen (it has arrows showing you what cycle you are "on") you can push through the cycles to quicken the wash.

If I were shopping again, and looking for a front load pair, I think the mold/mildew issues with the front loaders is a little overstated - and would probably get the Bosch front load pair. I would also look at the dryers with the steam option - not sure I would be interested in the steam option on the washers - but one popular item is a built in water heater - so you can wash with hotter water. The F&P also has very few moving parts - I think one or 2 items which could break. The standard manufacturer warranty is 2 years, most washers offer 1 year. I was not interested in a Frigidaire pair, but when I called my local repair company to get their input, I was told if you get Frigidaire, when it is almost out of warranty the manufacturer will contact you and offer a very inexpensive extended warranty.

You can also either pick up a movers package from the post office, or go to lowesmoving.com to get a coupon for 10% off at Lowe's. Home Depot will match it, and many other retailers will discount equally to get your business. Most will also price match - Lowes is not supposed to accept the 10% coupon for F&P but were able to, somehow. They screwed up - really screwed up, brought me the display model (which I didn't purchase) - ended up taking another 20% off my purchase, so I ended up with my pair for under $1300, before tax. They have a LOT of room to play with prices - for a price point, I paid $809 (w) and $709 (d) for mine - msrp was $899 and $799.

 

[RitaZ.]

The Whirlpool Cabrio is also an HE top loader. I know 2 people with them and they are both quite happy.

I looked at the Cabrio today at Sears and loved the large capacity, 5 cu. ft. It has no agitator. I really liked it. Their price was $927 plus tax.

Tina, thanks for all the tips. I want to go check out the F&P sets and will do so tomorrow. I'll stop by Lowe's as well.

 

[RadioNate]

I looked at the Cabrio today at Sears and loved the large capacity, 5 cu. ft. It has no agitator. I really liked it. Their price was $927 plus tax.

Tina, thanks for all the tips. I want to go check out the F&P sets and will do so tomorrow. I'll stop by Lowe's as well.

Costco has it for $699 I think.

 

[RitaZ.]

Costco has it for $699 I think.

I didn't know they sell appliances. That's a substantial savings. Do they offer delivery and installation?

 

[RadioNate]

I didn't know they sell appliances. That's a substantial savings. Do they offer delivery and installation?

If you buy in store you have to take it with you. I think if you order online, they deliver. I don't think they install but we've always done our own. I don't think that is that difficult.

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Produc...lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC11887-Cat4546&topnav=

 

[luvsmickeymouse]

I think they have a government rebate on appliances like they did for cars. May be worth checking into. Its soon if I remember correctly.

 

[RitaZ.]

If you buy in store you have to take it with you. I think if you order online, they deliver. I don't think they install but we've always done our own. I don't think that is that difficult.

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Produc...lang=en-US&Sp=C&ec=BC-EC11887-Cat4546&topnav=

I need to purchase a set in the next two days. I can't wait much longer. The laundry pile is getting out of control. Whatever I end up buying will have to be delivered the same or the next day.

Thanks everyone!

 

[RitaZ.]

I think they have a government rebate on appliances like they did for cars. May be worth checking into. Its soon if I remember correctly.

My mom told me about it. I looked into it and it won't take effect until October. I can't wait that long!

 

[Shelly F - Ohio]

Three months ago our washer finally died after months of limping it along. In the mean time while it was slowly dieing I did research and we decided to get the Samsung front loader. Yes I was worried about the odor problem. But I use a shammy to wipe the seal and door and leave the door open when not it use.
I love my machine. The amount of clothes that I can wash in one load is great. Cuts my laundry time in 1/2. Clothes come out really dry especially jeans! Which means less time in the dryer. I use to set my dry on 60 minutes to dry jeans now it takes 30-35 minutes.

What I learned on my research was to stay away from LG washers. They vibrate terribly. Even on the LG web site it says to install the machine on a floor that has been reinforced! Many review boards had a lot of complaints that the machine would move 4-6 inches because it shook so bad
My Samsung on the high spin setting is very quiet. I relate the noise level to that of a fan on a medium setting.