We had the opposite problem....the dryer died last summer. Since we got both the washer/dryer in August 98, we figured that we should replace both at the same time so they would match. I did tons of research, and the main problem I found was that for most models, the dryer is highly rated, but the washer stinks, or vice versa. The only brand I found that was reasonably priced AND had good reviews for both was LG. We got the front load washer + dryer for about $1100-1200. (I didn't get the pedestals...too much $$)
Like a PP said, you do need to leave the washer door open when you are not using it, or it will get a smell (I sometimes forget, but then I just do a load with hot water and bleach, and it usually eliminates the problem).
The other drawback is that they (especially the washer) are pretty loud. Ours are in the basement, so it doesn't matter for us, but just something to keep in mid.
We've been very happy with both the washer and dryer. (In fact, once we got the new washer, we realized that while our old washer was working, it was not doing a very good job!).
While shopping around, one salesman also told us that Whirlpool had recently purchased Maytag, KitchenAid and one or two other brands. He said that quality has suffered as a result of the reorganization (which I believe, because we have a newer Maytag dishwasher that is terrible!). He thought it was a temporary problem, but if you're considering one of those brands/models, just be sure to a lot of research before buying...
Good luck!
Like a PP said, you do need to leave the washer door open when you are not using it, or it will get a smell (I sometimes forget, but then I just do a load with hot water and bleach, and it usually eliminates the problem).
The other drawback is that they (especially the washer) are pretty loud. Ours are in the basement, so it doesn't matter for us, but just something to keep in mid.
We've been very happy with both the washer and dryer. (In fact, once we got the new washer, we realized that while our old washer was working, it was not doing a very good job!).
While shopping around, one salesman also told us that Whirlpool had recently purchased Maytag, KitchenAid and one or two other brands. He said that quality has suffered as a result of the reorganization (which I believe, because we have a newer Maytag dishwasher that is terrible!). He thought it was a temporary problem, but if you're considering one of those brands/models, just be sure to a lot of research before buying...
Good luck!
