washer/dryer purchase help!!

**MikeInPdx** · 02-22-2011, 07:28 PM

Originally Posted by mndtrp

Start by looking at how many of the settings and options you would actually use. I've seen some washers/dryers that have more than 10 settings we would never even touch. What's the point in paying for that?

If I was to get a new set, the washer would be a top loader.

That is very sound advice....I overbought with one of my machines....I ended up with three speeds, 5 temperatures, umpteen different wash actions, when all I really needed was Hot Warm Cold Normal, and Gentle. And the fancier machine was more trouble prone to boot.

After reading some of the reviews, I am happy that I bought a basic top loader.

**craftypam** · 02-22-2011, 07:51 PM

Love my front loader for the savings. Alot less water usage. half the soap. Spin cycle is so fast needs way less drying time. Clothes last longer because of no agitator. And my machine can be opened after starting to add more clothes.
You can also use regular laundry detergent, you just have to use half.
I have a whirlpool duet; I did purchase the extra warranty and did have 1 repair. (dh is very handy, but too much is electronic on this machine) I have also had my machine for 7 or 8 years.

**TigerGirl1226** · 02-22-2011, 08:19 PM

I have an HE toploader which works great for us. It has features, but not too many features. Lowe's had the "good, better, and best" of this particular washer lined up. We went with "better".

**sinopa27** · 02-22-2011, 11:00 PM

i only want a front loader to save on water. I have a well and septic. But if a top loader was to be water efficient, then I will consider it. I am thankful for all the comments. I am still confused. I am going to keep doing a lot of research before I make my final decision.
Thank you!
Keep the advice coming please.

**Palooka** · 02-22-2011, 11:30 PM

Our water is pretty cheap here, but I didn't notice much of a water savings or energy savings with the front loader washer and dryer.

**checkerkitty** · 02-23-2011, 09:14 AM

Originally Posted by sinopa27

Well my FV family, I have the $ saved to buy a washer and dryer. I am so happy cause I will be paying cash.

So, what do you recommend? Top loader or front loader? I kinda like the look of the front loader and would like to buy that.

What brand? I looked up the Whirlpool Cabrio and it got terrible reviews.

I trust my FV family and depend on you to help me make the best decisions.
Thank you,
Sinopa

another thought.... If you can wait to purchase, look at purchasing on BIG holidays: July 4th, Labor Day, Black Friday, etc. My parents had ANCIENT washing appliances. My dad went to Sears the day after Thanksgiving and they got a REALLY nice washer and dryer set for $1000. The washer is front load with a steam wash feature. I think the dryer was free with washer purchase. They had some other cheaper sets but were sold out. My parents got a screaming good deal. If you can wait a bit, you might be able to get a better deal!

Christy

PS- Also check to see if your state has any appliance rebate money left. Also, check with your local utility company to see if they have any rebates for energy efficient appliances. Depending on the washer you get, you could get an Energy Star rebate.

**checkerkitty** · 02-23-2011, 09:21 AM

Originally Posted by sinopa27

i only want a front loader to save on water. I have a well and septic. But if a top loader was to be water efficient, then I will consider it. I am thankful for all the comments. I am still confused. I am going to keep doing a lot of research before I make my final decision.
Thank you!
Keep the advice coming please.

There are high efficiency top loaders out there. I think it's newer technology, but they are available. I think they are a little more thirsty than a front load but not as thirsty as a top load.

Also, if you are on a well with a septic system, can you run your grey water line from your washer into your yard/property? We had some friends who lived in an incorporated city here in San Antonio called Hollywood Park (very nice area, beautiful homes). It's well within San Antonio city limits. They were on a separate water system and had a septic tank. The grey water line from their washing machine ran out into the backyard. They would just move the line around and water their grass. It was really cool! I wish we had the same feature. Anyway, that might ease the burden on your septic system if you can do that.

Christy

**chowder** · 02-23-2011, 11:50 AM

I am still getting info to make a washer purchase.Had my mind set on a Maytag top loader,but I hear Maytag was sold to Whirlpool.Does anyone know?

**Russ** · 02-23-2011, 11:55 AM

Correct, Maytag was bought by Whirlpool. 2006 or 2007 I think.

**MikeInPdx** · 02-23-2011, 01:09 PM

Originally Posted by Russ

Correct, Maytag was bought by Whirlpool. 2006 or 2007 I think.

Yup....bought by Whirlpool. It's kinda funny with my Admiral machine....it's Whirlpool through and through but with the Maytag dials and knobs. The owners manual is equally confusing; some places it mentions Maytag Corporation and other places Whirlpool.

**Judi Dial** · 02-26-2011, 10:31 PM

I worked for Sears for a while fixing washers/dryers. At the time, the mid 1970s, there were only 3 manufacturers of washers & dryers in the U.S. All of the major brands were turned out by the same three companies, with their own labels on them.

Judi

**henrysmom** · 02-27-2011, 02:54 AM

Hate my front loaders. They're LG. They smell if you don't keep them open or run bleach through them periodically. I don't think they clean my young boys' dirty clothes well no matter what detergent or additives. I haven't noticed any water savings, since I usually run the load with the extra water feature to try and get them cleaner. Will not re-buy. Before I had basic Maytag top loaders which were trouble free after 10 years. My next purchase will be top loaders, very basic, I only use heavy duty, regular, and gentle cycles. I do like the steam feature on my front load dryer for refreshing things, but it's not worth it overall.