Marta writes:
Hi Brad,
I'm researching and researching and would like to buy a front loader, but I don't need bells and whistles (it's me, my husband, and one son) - just clean clothes and reliability. I would forego extras for a lower price. Is there a reliable front loader to be had for anything close to the prices for top loading machines? Will I be able to buy a washer/dryer for around $1200?
My response:
Marta,
Thank you for writing!
To answer your question, yes, you can get a frontload washer and dryer for around $1200 that will do a fine job of cleaning your clothes. Reliability? Well, that is one area that is getting difficult to predict anymore.
I wrote in a previous post about the Amana frontload washer, made by Samsung. If you are looking for a bargain, then this is definitely it. The washer and electric dryer sell for just over $1100 at Home Depot, and are available for slightly more online. You may want to check one of your local dealers to see if they offer this washer, and for how much.
I like this washer because it offers decent capacity and efficiency at a very reasonable pricepoint. It does not have a lot of the bells and whistles that more expensive washers and dryers offer, but I guess that's probably the point, right?
There are a lot of very favorable reviews available at the Home Depot website. There are also a few reviews at epinions.
Frigidaire offers several frontload washers starting at $600. Samsung and LG both offers washers starting around $800.
Definitely take a look at the Amana set. I think you will like what you see. Let me know if you have anymore questions.
~Brad
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Hey Brad you're doing good work here. Very helpful information. I am also looking for a front load washer. I've found a pretty good website out there that has some good front load washer reviews that might be useful to you and your readers.
I am reading on Frigidaire front-loaders that bleach is attacking the aluminum parts of the washer, and possibly this debris is also contaminating the bearings and perhaps encouraging the moldy smells that some report.
I have used a Frigidaire gallery front loader in my condo, and have only used bleach once (and won't use it again) - it will be interesting to see how my washer holds up over the years, whether I get the broken spyder arms that some have reported, which means replacing the whole expensive assembly.
So for, I have used this washer for maybe 3 years or so, wash comforters and stuff a lot, as I have a very elderly dog - and no problems. I also make sure to leave the door open after use for quite a while, and my washer sits across from the a/c in the living room, so I frequently use the a/c on air or vent to ventilate this area after use.
I have a front loader for over a year. It stinks! I would suggest that you buy a top loader - they clean much better. The front loader always leaves a musty smell in your clothes, towels and bedding. All my friends say the same thing! It uses less water so the entire garment is never submerged - it really is awful. I have called for service and even used a product called smelly washer. So - if they are making products like that - you know that front loaders are not working for any of us!
Hi Brad
Thanks for the great site!
I need a large capacity front load washer. My two issues are hair and hard water. I run a small kennel and have to wash dog beds which usually have a lot of dog hair on them. I don't need commercial grade ( although that would be nice if I could afford it) and I am on well water which is very heavy with calcium and iron. I do NOT CARE what the washer looks like, and I do NOT want computerized anything to have to mess with. On, off, hot warm cold would be just peachy, but noone seems to make those any more. Suggestions?
No matter what if you go with a front loader, you're getting some electronics, because there are load balance sensors and whatnot. I doub't you'll find an old school front loader. My advice would be, bite the bullet and buy a decent large size front loader like maybe the LG WM2301HW, which is one of LG's "heavy duty" models, and buy the longest warranty you can.
Julia Priest, I sell appliances and would suggest looking at Speed Queen Frontload(AFN50R) for heavy duty use and reliability. They last twice as long as other brands (17-20yrs), and have a 3 yr warranty. they are made in Wisconsin. no electronic control panels. They also have top load (AWN311)and other models. We have sold them to Vet clinics, Hospitals, Hotels, and orchardists for their worker camps. Whirlpool Duet is a good one too. won't last as long though. Run from LG.
it really is awful.
Thank you.
Thank you, useful is what I say to such posts : ^ good luck
Hi Chris. A lot of front load washers can indeed get smelly fast. There is an easy solution, which for some reason is never shared by the sales people. This blog post Front load washer smell has all the details. It is important to keep the door open when the washer is not in use.
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Yes, Amana are high quality products. I have an Amana front load washer too.