Washing Machines

Conventional vs. high-efficiency

Although professional reviews say that some traditional basic top-loaders don't clean as well as they used to, some still do better than others. They also cost much less because they use conventional technologies and mechanics.

While front-loading washing machines are generally considered to perform better, top-loading washers are a little easier to load and unload. They're also generally less expensive because they don't require the extra seals and gaskets. In addition to regular, agitator-based conventional top-loading washers, a number of high-efficiency top-loaders are on the market as well. These high-efficiency top-loaders get better scores in formal testing, use less water, and the high spin speed reduces drying time.

However, with all washers that use some kind of new technology -- top loading or front loading -- we found complaints about breakdowns. While we found a smattering of complaints about all washer models, regardless of type or price, owners say that getting high-tech washers repaired can be a problem. That's because service technicians need additional training to fix the newer technology. In addition, specialized parts can take longer to order and receive. We often receive reports from consumers who waited weeks for a repair person to fix their high-tech washer. Therefore, new technology front loaders and top loaders don't appear to be any better or worse than conventional machines when it comes to overall reliability.

Conventional top-loading washing machines

While an old-style top loader isn't as sexy as one of the more stylish high-efficiency front loaders or top loaders, they still have some advantages. While less energy and water efficient, they have an advantage in that they are easier to repair because they use common parts and mechanics (though backordered parts could always throw a wrench in repair times). We still read complaints about breakdowns for conventional models, but at least they cost less at the outset.

A good basic top loader in reviews is the GE WJRE5500GWW (*est. $500) , a 3.5-cubic-foot capacity washer. This standard top-loader has dial controls, 18 wash cycles, four temperature settings and automatic temperature control. It also has an automatic load balancer -- unusual on machines in this price range. At the time of our visit, we found about 45 reviews for this model at Sears.com, where its average rating is 3.5/5 -- slightly better than other models in its price range. High points include the roomy capacity and low noise. We read typical complaints about breakdowns, but the most consistent complaint is that this washer's spin cycle isn't particularly strong, so clothes may need more drying time.

The GE WWSE5240GWW (*est. $450) is another good washer that performs a bit better than similarly priced models in reviews, and owners seem generally satisfied. Typical of all washing machines, however, we did still read reports about repairs. This standard washer has a 3.2-cubic-foot capacity -- a bit less than the GE WJRE5500GWW -- and it has a plastic tub instead of stainless steel, but it costs a bit less and still has a load balancer. It has dial controls and a range of the usual cycles and options.

So far, we've read decent user ratings for the Maytag Centennial MTW5720T (*est. $400). While we only found about a dozen write-ups so far for this 3.2-cubic-foot washer with knob controls, but most are positive. This basic top loader has a porcelain wash tub. The similar Maytag Centennial MTW5820T (*est. $450) costs a bit more, but has a stainless steel tub, and extra wash level and some extra sound insulation; even so, we read quite a few complaints about noise and vibration -- possibly due to the fact that neither washer has a load balancer.

So which of these machines is better? All of them get about the same user ratings and scores in professional tests. The GE models have a load balancer, however, while the Maytag washers don't. Otherwise, you might like the look of one or the other, but performance and reliability seem largely the same. We've included the GE WJRE5500GWW in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers for its slightly larger wash tub and load balancer, but any other three washers cost a bit less.

High-efficiency top loading washers

High efficiency, or HE, washers are getting all of the attention in reviews. They look more stylish and are more energy efficient. Some reviews say they get clothes cleaner than conventional washers, but we didn't find any difference when it comes to repairs; we found just as many complaints for expensive washers as we did for the budget machines.

The Maytag Bravos MTW6600TB (*est. $1,000) is a high-efficiency top-loader that does very well in tests for performance and noise. It has a large capacity 4.6-cubic-foot stainless steel drum, making it one of the largest top-loading washers on the market. It replaces the vertical agitator found in most conventional top-loading machines with an impeller that somersaults clothing around the washtub. This model features eleven automatic wash cycles, five temperature settings and automatic temperature control. Controls are on an electronic touchpad. There is also an adjustable end-of-cycle signal and a transparent lid. As with all high-efficiency washing machines, you need to use a low-sudsing HE detergent.

As with all washers, we found some complaints about breakdowns. Some users also complain that, at 60 minutes, the wash cycle is too long. Because the Maytag MTW6600TB has a 1,000-rpm spin cycle, it does extract a lot of water from clothing, saving on drying time. We did read some concerns from owners that the spin cycle leaves clothing twisted and wrinkled. A few owners also complain that unbalanced loads occasionally leak water.

The Whirlpool Cabrio HE WTW6600S (*est. $1030) also does well in tests for performance and low noise. It has almost identical features to the Maytag Bravos MTW6600TB, and if the Cabrio HE looks awfully similar to the Maytag Bravos, that's because it is -- the two machines are both made by Whirlpool. The Maytag version is a new model, but the Cabrio washer has been on the market long enough to amass some user reviews.

The Cabrio HE WTW6600S receives almost 80 owner written comments at Sears.com. Reviews are very mixed -- as with the Maytag Bravos, some love this washer, while others hate it. Owners who praise this model think that clothes and linen come out clean and that it is an easy-to-use, quiet washer. However, others complain about tangled and twisted clothes, usually sheets. A few owners were so disappointed that they returned their washers. For these reasons, we did not include either the Cabrio or the Maytag Bravos in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers.

Whirlpool also makes Kenmore Oasis washers, which are similar to the Cabrio. The Kenmore Elite Oasis Canyon Capacity 27072 (*est. $800) has 4.6-cubic-feet of drum space with a wash plate that moves clothing around the washtub. Owner reports describe the wash plate as creating a sort of vortex; clothes rotate up the middle of the washer and down again near the sides while they are showered with water and detergent. As with other high-efficiency top loaders, we found lots of complaints for the Oasis washing machine.

Consumers posting to review sites seem pleased with the Kenmore 27072's large capacity and easy-to-use controls. However, this washing machine still receives complaints from most owners posting comments to the Sears.com website. Some owners say they just can't tell if this washer gets clothing appreciably cleaner than less expensive washing machines. A few said they needed to wash their clothes twice. We read about some owners' trouble with the control panel and persistent error messages, as well as many reliability complaints similar to those that we find for all washers. Several owners report their washers required numerous repairs within a few months. While owners say the huge capacity is a definite plus, many are not convinced that they're getting much value out of this machine over other models that cost less.

The GE Profile Harmony WPGT9360E King Size Washer (*est. $1,100) has a 4-cubic-foot capacity. Like the Kenmore Elite Oasis Canyon Capacity, the Whirlpool Cabrio washers and the Maytag Bravos, this machine ditches a traditional agitator. Instead, the GE Profile Harmony uses a washing disk that pushes clothing through the water. It has a time-release detergent dispensing system. The HydroWash system uses as little as 17 gallons of water for a small load and an average of 24 gallons for a medium-sized load. In professional tests, the GE Profile Harmony does well in cleaning clothes and has low noise.

One interesting feature worth mentioning is that the GE Profile Harmony communicates electronically with the matching Harmony dryer, which then presets dry cycles. While unique, reviews say this feature isn't particularly useful. Like other high-efficiency washers, it requires a high-efficiency detergent. If you've been reading this section, you're probably sensing a theme by now; as with the other HE top loaders, we found many complaints about breakdowns.

Fisher & Paykel, a New Zealand based company enjoying a lot of success in the U.S., has moved its manufacturing operations from New Zealand to Ohio. While most washers carry a one-year warranty, Fisher & Paykel covers its washers for two years.

Fisher & Paykel's Intuitive Eco IWL16 (*est. $770) is one of the most energy-efficient washers on the market. Tests also reveal it is gentler on clothing than even pricier models. Along with a 1,000-rpm spin cycle and a 3.7-cubic-foot capacity, the Intuitive Eco has a water-saving mode and 13 specialty cycles. Unlike many high-efficiency washers, the Fisher & Paykel uses regular detergent instead of special low-sudsing HE detergent. Along with the high-speed spin, there are two other spin settings. Some owners say the high-speed spin can result in too many wrinkles, so you might want to save the high-speed spin for heavy items like towels and jeans.

The newer Fisher & Paykel Aquasmart WL26CW2 (*est. $900) also has 3.7-cubic-foot capacity, a stainless steel tub, 19 wash cycles and three spin cycles. What sets this model apart is its low profile agitator that moves clothes in a circular motion over each other. Another unique feature is that the WL26CW2 can perform a high efficiency wash or a traditional wash, which makes it the only top loader that provides these options. There is also a water saver option, automatic water levels and touchpad controls.

We found slightly fewer reliability complaints about Fisher & Paykel high-efficiency top loaders than we did for other brands -- but Fisher & Paykel has other advantages; the two-year warranty at least means that you won't face out-of-pocket repair costs for two years instead of one year. In addition, the Fisher & Paykel Intuitive Eco IWL16 costs a good $200 less than other high-efficiency top loaders. That's why we've chosen to include the Intuitive Eco in ConsumerSearch Fast Answers. This model cleans as well as others and is especially efficient when it comes to water, and it's Energy Star rated.

Front-loading washing machines

Front loaders are considered to be the best performing and most energy efficient washing machines. Their horizontal tubs tumble clothes or a wash plate or impeller somersaults clothes in and out of the water. Because gravity is used to tumble the laundry and because there is no vertical agitator pulling and twisting the clothes, front-loaders are gentler on clothes and cause less tangling than top-loading machines. The bad news is that high-efficiency (or HE) washers cost more than traditional top loaders, and they still get complaints for reliability. In general, however, reliability has been improving for front-loaders, and for the LG Tromm SteamWasher in particular, we read unusually good user ratings.

Another caveat is that because of their design, they require more daily attention. For example, we've read many reports that front loaders can develop a mildew smell caused by the water that can remain standing in the gasket and other washer parts after a cycle. Users say that owners can wipe away water after cycles or leave the washer door open for a few hours to allow water to evaporate. Affresh Washer Cleaner Tablets (*est. $7 for three tablets), developed by Whirlpool, are also supposed to combat mildew and odors in high-efficiency washers. However, owners posting to online forums say that dishwasher detergent also works well.

Most experts agree that front-loading washing machines (also called horizontal-axis washing machines) do a better job of cleaning clothes than top-loaders. High-efficiency washing machines use less water, energy and detergent than conventional top-loaders. Front-loaders use about half as much water and detergent as traditional top-loaders according to the Energy Star website. In addition, their fast spin speeds of up to 1,300 rpm remove more water from clothing, thereby reducing drying time and resulting in further energy savings. Because of the design, you can't soak clothes and you have to use special low-sudsing "HE" or high-efficiency detergents which cost a little more than regular laundry detergent.

An innovative front-loading washing machine, the LG SteamWasher WM2688HWMA (*est. $1,500) , has received very good reviews, though it is quite expensive. The SteamWasher also does well in tests for washing performance and energy and water efficiency. This model offers a 4-cubic-foot capacity and features plenty of automated features, including automatic temperature control, an automatic detergent dispenser and a touchscreen display. For those who love convenience gadgetry, the LG SteamWasher can be integrated with a home network to display its progress on your computer. Unlike most high-efficiency machines, it has an internal water heater and two optional steam settings: a cycle to moisten clothing for easier ironing and a cycle to steam clothes to aid in deep-cleaning/sanitizing. The SteamWasher comes in white and navy.

In reviews, the LG SteamWasher is among the best at getting water out of clothes; it has spin speeds up to 1,320 rpm. J.D. Power's major appliance study showed that LG washing machines in general have the highest customer satisfaction rating of all brands. Owner-written reviews bear this out. Over 100 users have posted comments about the SteamWasher on various sites and the vast majority praises the large capacity, washing performance, adjustable settings and energy efficiency. Many also think this model operates quietly. The major complaints are that the machine shakes or vibrates too much, usually during the spin cycle, and some also think the washing cycles are too long. A few consumer complaints report that water may not drain completely from the front window seal; for some this caused mold or smelly clothes. Other owners suggest that the problem stems from overloading the machine. A few advise keeping the washer door open so all the water can evaporate.

Another good, but more expensive front loading washer is the Miele Touchtronic W 4840 (*est. $2,050) . This is a high-end European model that does well in tests in several areas including wash performance, water and energy efficiency and low noise. This 4.0-cubic-foot washer has a stainless steel honeycomb drum with interior light, 17 wash cycles, automatic temperatures and automatic detergent and bleach dispensers. It is available in white. The W 4840 also has six water temperatures and six spin cycles, more than most front-loaders, and is Energy Star rated. This model has an audible signal that is also adjustable, a feature not usually found with washers.

One of the Touchtronic's more unusual features is a PC Update function that can transmit washer information online to a Miele technician who can change the programming parameters of the washer, such as reducing water or electricity use. Unlike most front-loaders, this model is stackable. High-efficiency detergent is recommended. Most owners posting comments at various sites praise this washer. They say the Miele W 4840 is quiet, energy efficient, and cleans well. About half also say the wash cycle -- 100 minutes -- is too long. The high price is the main drawback.

The front-loading Kenmore Elite HE5t King Size Capacity Plus 47081 washer (*est. $1,040) has a 4.0-cubic-foot capacity. Reviews say the HE5t has great water extraction with its 1,300-rpm spin cycle, so clothes take less time to dry. Its 12 cycles include delicates, silk, wool, a "whitest-white" cycle that includes the automatic addition of bleach, an express cycle and a sanitary setting, which heats water to 160 degrees. That's hot enough to kill dust mites in bedding. The Kenmore HE5t washer does all this while keeping energy consumption low. The Kenmore Elite HE5t also scores points for low noise level. Owners like that it comes in some interesting designer colors, such as Pacific Blue and Barolo. One downside is that the HE5t's typical wash cycle is unusually long -- about 100 minutes -- which can be rough on clothes.

The Kenmore Elite HE5t King Size Capacity Plus 47081 and the Whirlpool Duet are nearly identical (Whirlpool makes both). There are only small differences in wattage, spin cycles and overall aesthetics. Whirlpool's version of the HE5t, the Duet WFW9400S (*est. $1,200) , has similar features and is available in black, biscuit, white-blue on metallic and gray in addition to white. The more basic Whirlpool Duet WFW9200S washer costs around $1,100 and comes only in white-on-white.

The Whirlpool Duet WFW9400S (*est. $1,200) washing machine has a 4.0-cubic-foot capacity and stainless steel washtub. There are 14 cycles and five wash/rinse temperatures, along with electronic controls, a bleach dispenser and a porcelain lid. The typical wash cycle takes about 65 minutes -- shorter than the wash cycle on the Kenmore Elite HE5t. The Duet, like most washers, has a one-year warranty. Although the Whirlpool Duet does well in some professional reviews, we read a lot of complaints about mildew smells, indicating there could be a problem with water being left behind in the washer. A similar model is the Whirlpool Duet Steam WFW9600T (*est. $1,250) that does well in tests for washing performance. While it is more expensive than the WFW9400S, this model receivess only fair ratings at Epinions. Many owners complain about the clothes not getting clean, the rinse cycle not getting out the detergent or water leaking on the floor.

There are some less expensive front-loaders on the market that also do well in tests. The front-loading LG WM0642HW (*est. $1100) washes well. One reason for the smaller price tag is its smallish door and window. The LG WM0642HW features a 4.0-cubic-foot capacity, automatic temperature control, an automatic detergent dispenser, a stainless steel tub and touch controls. It has a one-year warranty, plus two years on the control panel and seven years on the motor. Owner comments are good on the whole, with a smattering of complaints about breakdowns and vibration.

Another option is the Frigidaire GLTF2940F (*est. $650) , which is not much more expensive than some nicer top-loaders. This model also does well in tests for water and energy efficiency and washing performance. The Frigidaire is noticeably a bit less stylish than more expensive front-loading washers, with a smaller door and less stainless steel trim. The Frigidaire washer still has all the essential cycles, including several wash cycles and temperature settings along with a 3.5-cubic-foot capacity. The model is Energy Star rated and is available in white and black. In reviews, the Frigidaire cleans as well as pricier front-loaders. The standard wash cycle is 55 minutes -- much shorter than some. Owner comments are generally good; most say it does a great job and many feel it is quiet, but others say that water collects in the bellows (the rubber door seal) and, if not removed, starts to smell. While the Frigidaire is inexpensive for a front-loader, owners may have to wipe away collected water after running a wash load. Some owners suggest just leaving the door open for remaining water to evaporate. We also read some complaints about breakdowns. Overall, we found slightly better owner reviews for the LG WM0642HW, which is a bit larger but costs $250 more.

We found good professional reviews for washing machines in the Bosch Nexxt series, and consumer reviews report the Nexxt models run quietly, even during the spin cycles. With a 4.0-cubic-foot capacity, the Bosch Nexxt 500 Plus series (*est. $1,100) isn't as large as the Kenmore Elite Oasis Canyon, but it offers a quiet performance and high-efficiency extras. This model is Energy Star rated and has an onboard water heater that heats water up to 155 degrees Fahrenheit, while a digital temperature sensor continually monitors the temperature. It's all part of the Sensotronic II Plus system, which senses load size, water level and temperature needs. This model comes in white or in silver for $100 more. We read the same wide-ranging complaints for the Bosch Nexxt washers as we did for other brands.

Cutting energy costs

"The average household does almost 400 loads of laundry each year, consuming about 13,500 gallons of water," writes the editor of EnergyStar.gov. Buying a new washing machine is a big investment, but the good news is that most people keep their washers an average of eleven years. According to the Energy Star website, "An Energy Star qualified clothes washer can save you $550 in operating costs over its lifetime compared to a regular clothes washer."

Buying a high-efficiency washing machine is one way to cut down on energy use. But you can still cut costs even if you decide not to buy a $1,000 washing machine. Many conventional machines are Energy Star rated. Look for washers with a high Modified Energy Factor (MEF). This is a detailed calculation that takes into account water heating energy and drying energy used by the washer. The Energy Star website lists the MEF for washers. The higher the MEF, the more energy efficient a clothes washer is.

A washer with a low Water Factor (WF) also saves money. The WF measures the number of gallons of water used per cubic foot. The lower the number, the more water efficient a washer is. The WF for models can also be found on the Energy Star website.

Adjusting your washing habits can also save energy. Wash a full load of clothes. Whatever the size of the load, the energy used is roughly the same. You can also try to wash and rinse clothes in cold water whenever possible -- heating water uses more energy than any other process. If clothes are oily or greasy use warm or hot water, but you can still rinse in cold water. According to Energy Star, "About 90% of the energy consumed for washing clothes is due to heating the water." Even washing in warm water reduces energy consumption to about half that of hot water cycles.

If your washer has various spin cycles, choose the highest spin speed available. The highest revolutions per minute (rpm) eliminate the most water from the clothes, so drying time is reduced.

Important Features: Washing machines

The following is what experts say about choosing a washer:

• Always buy the largest washer that your space and budget allow. Single people and couples will find large models adequate; an average-size household will want to go for an extra-large and larger families should look for a super-capacity (usually about two inches deeper than smaller washers).

• Electronic touch-pad controls look sleek, but reviews say they're more delicate than knobs and dials and more expensive to repair. However, nearly all high-end machines have electronic controls, since there are computer chips in their control panels. If you are looking at a low-end machine, it's probably better to go with a knob.

• A stainless steel tub is preferable to porcelain, because it won't rust or chip. All high-end machines and most front-loaders have stainless steel baskets. Experts say stainless steel washtubs are also able to withstand higher spin speeds. Many high-efficiency models have stainless steel washtubs.

• Look for automatic temperature controls, which automatically select the right water temperature for each selected cycle. Also more common are automatic water-level controls, so you don't have to guess how much water is needed for your load.

Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our
All The Reviews Reviewed chart.

# of Picks	Model (With Retailer Links)	Details from Amazon.com
2	Kenmore Elite Oasis (*est. $800 to $1,100)	-
2	Whirlpool Cabrio (*est. $1,030)	details
2	Bosch Nexxt (*est. $1,000)	details
2	LG SteamWasher (*est. $1,500)	details
2	GE Profile Harmony (*est. $1,100)	details
2	Fisher & Paykel's Intuitive Eco IWL16 (*est. $770)	details
1 each	Maytag Bravos MTW6600TB , Fisher & Paykel Aquasmart WL26CW1 , Estate ETW4400TQ, Whirlpool Duet Steam WFW9600TW , Miele Touchtronic W 4840 , Frigidaire Gallery GLTF2940FS , Samsung WF448AA GE WBVH6240FWW , Eurotech EWF272EL, Kenmore Elite HE5t , LG WM0642HW

We found the best, most recent reviews dedicated to high-efficiency front-loading and top-loading washing machines. However, it's important to note that for most of these, we also found significant negative reviews from consumers regarding durability. The LG TROMM SteamWasher and LG WM0642HW washers get slightly better reviews from owners for durability and reliability. The user reviews we found for the front-loading Frigidaire Gallery GLTF2940FS aren't quite as good as those for LG, but this model is among the least expensive front-loaders on the market and it gets good ratings in professional reviews. Among top-loading HE washers, we found better reviews for the Fisher & Paykel Intuitive Eco than others.

We didn't find any reviewer that says traditional-top loading washing machines clean better than high-efficiency washers. However, owners do not seem to mind, and we found similar owner ratings for washers costing less than half the price of some fancy models. This may indicate that performance differences discovered in professional reviews may be less noticeable to owners.

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