Best Reviewed
Washing Machines
- Best front-loading washer LG SteamWasher WM3875HWCA *Est. $1150
- Budget front-loading washing machine GE WCVH6800JWW *Est. $700
- Best top-loading washer LG WT5101HW *Est. $950
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Budget front-loading washing machine
- Energy Star-compliant
- Good performance
- Fast spin cycle
- Inexpensive for a front loader
- Some problems with mold
- Washer can become unbalanced
- Some durability problems
The GE WCVH6800JWW doesn't include as many features as more expensive front-loading washers, but it does offer decent performance at a bargain price. It's recommended in one independent test, and it gets generally good reviews from users. The 3.5-cubic-foot washer is Energy Star-rated, and it has 26 wash cycles and a maximum spin speed of 1,100 rpm. Professional reviewers give it high marks in every category: washing performance, water and energy use, noise, vibration and gentleness to fabrics. Users say the fast spin speed does a good job removing water from laundry, but it can also cause the machine to become unbalanced, particularly with heavy loads. Some users suggest turning down the spin speed or mixing heavy towels in with lighter clothes to eliminate this problem. This machine also has some problems with mold buildup and odor, which are common complaints with front loaders. We read a few reports of breakdowns early in the washer's lifespan (anywhere from 6 months to 5 years), but most users say they still consider it a good value. If you can afford to spend more, the LG SteamWasher WM3875HWCA (*Est. $1,150) gets the best reviews overall.
The GE WCVH6800JWW is included in tests of front- and top-loading washing machines at ConsumerReports.org, where it's rated on washing performance, energy efficiency, noise and gentleness, among other factors. We found more than 150 user reviews for this product at Viewpoints.com, plus additional reviews at HomeDepot.com, Lowes.com and Sears.com.
Our Sources
1. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
ConsumerReports.org includes the GE WCVH6800JWW in its tests of front-loading washing machines. The washer is rated on a variety of factors, including washing performance, gentleness, efficiency, noise and vibration.
Review: Washing Machines, Editors of ConsumerReports.org, As of Sept. 2011
The GE WCVH6800JWW has about 150 reviews at Viewpoints.com, with an overall rating 4.35 stars out of 5. Users say they love this machine's efficiency, large capacity and quiet operation, but we found several complaints about mildew problems and clothes getting twisted up in the wash. Some users also report that the washer becomes unbalanced easily.
Review: GE Front Load Washer WCVH6800J Reviews, Contributors to Viewpoints.com
The GE WCVH6800JWW earns an overall rating of 4.2 stars out of 5 in more than 80 reviews at HomeDepot.com. Users generally say this machine cleans well, and they appreciate its low water and energy use. However, we read many complaints about unbalancing that causes the washer to rock and shake violently, along with a few complaints about mold and odor.
Review: GE 4.0 cu. ft. DOE King-Size Capacity Front Load Washer Energy Star in White, Contributors to HomeDepot.com
4. Sears.com
The 50-plus reviewers at Sears.com are less enthusiastic about the GE WCVH6800JWW than those at Viewpoints.com and HomeDepot.com, giving it 3 stars out of 5 overall. Although users praise this machine's capacity, quietness and ease of use, we read several complaints about durability problems.
Review: GE Appliances 3.5 DOE cu. ft. Stainless Steel Capacity Frontload Washer (WCVH6800J) Energy Star, Contributors to Sears.com
5. Lowes.com
About 35 reviewers at Lowes.com give the GE WCVH6800JWW an overall rating of 2.5 stars out of 5. Those who like it say the washer is efficient and well made, but we read many complaints about a musty smell and poor reliability.
Review: GE 3.5 Cu. Ft. Stackable Front-Load Washer (White) ENERGY STAR, Contributors to Lowes.com
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