Speed Queen top loader review / Consumer Reports.org


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Thread Number: 25261
Speed Queen top loader review / Consumer Reports.org

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Post# 389438 10/30/2009 at 12:44 (5,291 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)
Checkrate/Likes I was bored and googled SQ top load washer reviews, and stumbled upon a new reivew of SQ lastest TOL TL, (Consumer Reports.org) which I own and love. It seems like CR did not give it a good review. They also reviewed some other new washers also. Is it me, or is CR biased? I think my SQ is the best built American made TL on the market, with a super strong warranty, longer than any other brand, true commercial construction, and great capacity and washability why would CR give this machine a bad review? This pisses me off because I really believe in this product, and I hope this does not hurt Speed Queen's sales or reputation. I know other club members feel this way also. I would suggest writing to CR as someone already has, to let them know how we feel, and to support this great product. Thanks

Post# 389446 , Reply# 1 10/30/2009 at 13:12 (5,291 days old) by rayjay (Carteret, New Jersey)
Checkrate/Likes I agree, I think these are gerat machines. I subscribe to CR and use them as a guideline, not the Bible. If you are happy, that is all that matters. However....most of the NEW toploaders did not get a great rating for washing performance. The frontloaders did. I am looking at a Spped Queen frontloader now.

Post# 389471 , Reply# 2 10/30/2009 at 14:33 (5,291 days old) by may63 (St. Paul MN)
Checkrate/Likes What didn't CR like about TL Speed Queens? Are they biased against all top loaders due to the water consumption?

Post# 389483 , Reply# 3 10/30/2009 at 15:20 (5,291 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)
Checkrate/Likes They (CR) are definitely biased against traditional top load washers. I know front load he washers use less water and energy, but I like to wash with more than a teaspoon full of water and a capfull of detergent. I wonder how much longer Americans will be able to purchase traditional top load washers.

Post# 389491 , Reply# 4 10/30/2009 at 15:32 (5,291 days old) by rayjay (Carteret, New Jersey)
Checkrate/Likes The top loaders I think were better years ago. They filled all they way up, they hard long spray rinses, (which is needed to get rid of all the high sudsing detergent). Now, I think for the most part, there are no more spray rinses on the top loaders and they may not fill all they way up Does your new Speed Queen do any spray rinses? If I were to get a top loader it would be a Speed Queen. However, I have to say having many machines througout the years, I think the front loaders do a much better job washing and rinsing.

Post# 389493 , Reply# 5 10/30/2009 at 15:33 (5,291 days old) by rayjay (Carteret, New Jersey)
Checkrate/Likes The Speed Queen top loaders only got an average rating...

Post# 389495 , Reply# 6 10/30/2009 at 15:37 (5,291 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)
Checkrate/Likes My SQ fills to the top row of holes after I adjusted the screw on the back of the machine. It does have spray rinses as well between the wash and rinse cycle.

Post# 389529 , Reply# 7 10/30/2009 at 17:08 (5,291 days old) by launderess (Quiet Please, There�s a Lady on Stage)
Checkrate/Likes *Top Loaders Need Water* Lots of it to do the job correctly. Sadly with all new energy mandates from the federal and in some cases local governments, top loading washing machines are going the way of the Dodo. The only way around one can see is to either attempt to tweak water levels, or launder less than recommended amoung of laundry per water ratio so there is enough water to get the job done properly. Funny how persons say CR is biased against top loaders, time was we would have heard another story from CR about front loaders. In short CR disliked them, as nearly as much as they did Euro dishwashers with manual clean filters, but that bit has changed as well. IMHO if anyone wants a decent top loading washing machine, they really are much better off with a vintage unit. Just my two cents. L.

Post# 389535 , Reply# 8 10/30/2009 at 17:37 (5,291 days old) by toploader1984 ()
Checkrate/Likes i heard a couple of years ago CR got paid off to recommend asian cars, it seems to me they highly rate whirlpool appliances, i KNOW for a fact the newer wp dishwashers and front loaders by wp are junk, it ALSO pisses me off that CR would do that about the speed queens, what? beacuse they are made in AMERICA and not in a slave shop????? i wonder if speed queen can sue them for giving them a bad reputation.

Post# 389573 , Reply# 9 10/30/2009 at 19:56 (5,291 days old) by norfolksouthern ()
Checkrate/Likes Consumer Reports often lacks in credibility. Just look at the top-rated Whirlpool Calypso, which many people demonize as "Colapsos". I know of one that has appeared several times on Craigslist, which is now marked down to $80.00. I'm waiting to see if he finds a buyer. If not, then I may just swoop in and pick it up for scrap. Or, maybe I'll fix it up if I can find a cheap pump. The trouble with today's highly regarded electric gadgets, is that they can fail. But many personal computers keep going for years, even decades, so I won't always fault the electrical components. The real problem, however, points to the engineering and mechanics. There are a lot more parts to remove and diagnostics to be made in order to get to a specific cause, and simplicity lacks. Hence, a technician is usually called to fix what ever breaks. These machines often cannot be serviced by the consumer. They are designed to be REPLACED instead! Back to the Speed Queen. My own observations of Alliance's offerings, is that they are all very solid. Unlike the plastic GEs and fragile Cabrios, or the plastic Boschs, they appear to be designed to last through many years, or even decades of use. Speed Queens will continue to hold their value far longer than any fancy front loader on the market. And, I do feel that Speed Queen makes a much better front loader than other manufacturers because they are not nearly as finicky with detergents. And this is in spite of the lack of an internal water heater. You can run smaller amounts of regular detergent through a Speed Queen front loader, but trying that with a Duet will most likely void the short warranty! NorfolkSouthern

Post# 389583 , Reply# 10 10/30/2009 at 20:39 (5,291 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)
Checkrate/Likes What perturbs me most about Consumer Reports is that we live in a culture where the majority of consumers rely soley on information posted in their mag. I work for Oreck. Oreck makes a vacuum in the US with a ten year warranty. It's called the Platinum. CR rated this vac #10 or #11. I personally know that this vac is not only an excellent vac, it can easily be repaired and will last at least 15-20 years with scheduled tune-ups. CR rates either a Kenmore or Hoover made in China #1, and people flock to stores to purchase these unrepairable units because CR said they are #1 or #2. I basically take what they say with a grain of salt, but I know alot of the buying public won't even look at an Oreck, or Speed Queen simply because CR rated them as only average, because they don't have the short lived bells and whistles that other units have. I'm just sayin'.......That's all!

Post# 389587 , Reply# 11 10/30/2009 at 20:52 (5,291 days old) by frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)
Checkrate/Likes I don't recall vintage Speed Queen washers getting rave reviews at CR, either. Nor did they get particularly high scores for reliability. My Frigidaire top-loader gets scores that make the Speed Queen's look stellar, and I still like my washer. It cleans very well with soft water and a top-notch detergent. It's a big ol' hunk of cheap white plastic compared to a Speed Queen, but it was half the price, too. If I were to replace my indexing Frigidaire, I'd choose a Speed Queen. I like traditional slow-stroke agitation and a stainless steel tub. I believe most GE top-loaders are now slow-stroke Hydrowave's, as well.

Post# 389597 , Reply# 12 10/30/2009 at 21:29 (5,291 days old) by alr2903 (TN)
Checkrate/Likes im not sure what month the review was, i was at the dentist. and CU had reviewed washers and acknowledged the Maytag Centennial with its semi retro styling. CU stated the only thing retro about the Maytag was its energy consumption. I think launderess is right. To gain favor they must use about 5 gallons of water and no more electric than a night light. alr2903

Post# 389634 , Reply# 13 10/31/2009 at 01:20 (5,291 days old) by mrcleanjeans (milwaukee wi)
Checkrate/Likes *CU is PU* As usual, they're full of it. Apsolutely the Speed Queen top loaders are FAR and AWAY the very best top loaders today. They balance washability with gentleness, something unachievable with DD Whirlpools and have the best warrantys on this planet.They are the closest thing in quality to the old helical drive Maytags that we'll ever see again. They're as gentle as a dove,as strong as an ox,and as reliable as an old steam locomotive.

Post# 389656 , Reply# 14 10/31/2009 at 07:53 (5,290 days old) by maytagmightyjj ()
Checkrate/Likes *Consumer Reports is no longer very accurate* I subscribe to Consumer Reports.org and find them to do a sloppy job of reviewing products now. Most of the time, they can't even correctly list the features of a machine. And one of the craziest things I've ever seen is they reviewed 2 Maytag model washers-- same washer except one had an extra rinse feature and they had totally different ratings as to washing performance etc. There is no way those two machines cleaned differently. So I don't pay them much attention anymore-- I but what I like and am pleased with. I trust everyones opinion here much more than theirs.

Post# 389781 , Reply# 15 10/31/2009 at 17:16 (5,290 days old) by coldspot66 (Plymouth, Mass)
Checkrate/Likes Speaking from a technician's point of view, I hope these Alliance Speed Queens hold up better than their predecessors. I'm talking about BEFORE the Amanatags with the plastic outer tub.10 years seems to be how long they lasted before leaking. These washers were prone to chewing up belts and brake pads. And the tub seals would eventually leak and wet damage bearings below. Hope that doesn't happen with these machines. Time will tell. I will admit they are well built machines, but difficult to service.

Post# 389925 , Reply# 16 12/31/2069 at 18:00 (19,839 days old) by andrewinorlando ()
Checkrate/Likes Come on folks...what the hell do you expect? This is the same magazine that rated the Magic Chef (GE clone) dishwasher with plastic interior and center wash tower with no filtration as highly for overall performance as they did the KitchenAid Superba dishwasher back in the late 1980s. Enough said..... This is the same magazine that tested top load washers with average 8 pound washloads to develop their performance ratings until some genius figured out that this is probably not the way most folks do laundry, and that if one is buying a large capacity washer, there is probably a reason for that (and its not to wash an 8 pound load of clothes). And for the record, Whirlpool front loaders and Whirlpool dishwashers are anything but junk, judging by the KitchenAid dishwasher I recently bought at Lowe's Labor Day sale, since it was time for a new toy for the kitchen...and it is one of the best cleaning dishwashers I have used....as good as the LG, and as good as the GE tall tub I had. The KitchenAid has the ProScrub option which, I must say, does exactly what it says it is supposed to do. The only thing the LG beats it at is capacity volume and overall solid "feel". Everything fits in an LG, and its steam option can clean grease off an engine, similar to the KA ProScrub option. But very, very happy with the KitchenAid - quiet, fast, and very nice looking machine. Will post machine specs in separate thread.

Post# 389990 , Reply# 17 11/1/2009 at 12:05 (5,289 days old) by mixfinder ()
Checkrate/Likes *Confusing* I feel I would be better served if Consumer Reports rated items by manufacturer and left the brand name off. Then we'd be able to know which machine were advisable under a brand. I would also like it better explained that occluded part numbers and Kenmore specific repair services can be less satisfying.

Post# 390000 , Reply# 18 11/1/2009 at 13:13 (5,289 days old) by brisnat81 (Brisbane Australia)
Checkrate/Likes I agree with John, We've had the SQ TL machines here since the late 80's branded as Kleenmaid, and the maximum age is about 10 years before the lower seal fails and you're up for a full dissasemble and $200AUD in parts. If you dont notice the water damage when it first starts, it can take out the quick connect connector for the motor (Shorts and Melts) and in some instances the motor as well. If you ever needed anything more than a belt change here, they're not usually cost effective to repair. Hopefully the seal has been redesigned and they'll be good for more than 10 years now. Otherwise the concept is good and they do a great job, its good to see a competitor to the DD design.

Post# 390138 , Reply# 19 11/2/2009 at 01:00 (5,289 days old) by alr2903 (TN)
Checkrate/Likes Brisnat, my Amana started leaking at 7 years. It was the most expensive washer i have ever owned. The real heart breaker is the seal was cheap the labor was ridiculous, just as you posted. alr2903

Post# 390165 , Reply# 20 11/2/2009 at 03:47 (5,289 days old) by rapunzel (Sydney)
Checkrate/Likes *Must be pot luck!* My first Kleenmaid branded Speed Queen lasted 20 years. My in-laws have had theirs for 19 years now and apparently never had any problems. At my work we have another one that must be at least 20 years old and is used no less than half a dozen times every day. It gets serviced in-house by our own maintenance guy and I've only known it to have broken down once in the six years I've been there.

Post# 390194 , Reply# 21 11/2/2009 at 08:38 (5,288 days old) by tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)
Checkrate/Likes While it is true that CU did not like tumbler washers from their introduction until the mid 60s, a lot of it had to do with the performance of the low-sudsing detergents available at the time and the very small tubs in the machines. By 1964 or 65, they rated the straight front Westinghouse average in cleaning ability and we never had complaints with the cleaning ability of ours. Of course, detergents had been improving also so maybe that helped. I believe that they could bring more expertise to their ratings and maybe a little less bias. For years they pushed the 6 cylinder engine in Toyotas saying it gave a smoother operation to the car. I always bought the 4 cylinder to save gas and never noticed rough motor operation. It is possible that with trying to achieve lower hot water usage and lower overall water consumption, the performance of top loaders has fallen. It is true that they do not spin as fast as many front loaders, but many front loaders don't spin all that well in the rinsing phase so their rinsing is sometimes not that great, but CU was not usually concerned with rinsing performance. What specifically did CU say about your new SQ that you disagree with?

Post# 391155 , Reply# 22 11/6/2009 at 06:39 (5,284 days old) by hilovane (Columbus OH)
Checkrate/Likes Bottom line: SQ is the NEW Maytag!

Post# 391164 , Reply# 23 11/6/2009 at 08:25 (5,284 days old) by toggleswitch2 ()
Checkrate/Likes ~Consumer Reports often lacks in credibility. I lost all faith in them years ago when they downrated Maytag (classic) Dependable Care washers becasuse they don't have a "lip" around the top to contain water. I mean REALLY!!! Of ALL the criteria in the world, this is the most minor one of all. I read their magazine second-hand (I won't give them one red cent of my money), and even then it's just good for a laugh.

Post# 391264 , Reply# 24 11/6/2009 at 17:03 (5,284 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes *CR is SUPER Inaccurate....* I can't believe anyone would/should believe in a magazine that states it test so thoroughly, but apparently cannot bother to notice the basics like YES, the Speed Queen DOES HAVE a bleach dispenser (doh!) and NO, it does NOT come with a ONE year warranty, but rather a industry-leading THREE YEAR warranty (double doh!). So much for thorough reviews. Actually we have CR to thank - after following it's advice to dive into Cabrio purgatory, we have climbed out and are now the soon-to-be proud owners of a pair of 2009 Speed Queens! They will be delivered next week and we can't wait. I have this website to thank for all the great pictures, action shots, and discussions that helped us make the decision. Frankly, the last I had heard of Speed Queen was in the 1980s. I called my aunt to see if she still had her Speed Queen and she had just bought a new Roper (omg) and given the Speed Queen pair to her daughter. The appliance store where she'd purchased the original SQ said they weren't made anymore and talked her into a Roper. Her Speed Queens were 31 years old and had only had a pump replaced back in the 1990s. I guess the wood grain control panel didn't match her newly remodeled kitchen. :) I also was very impressed with the customer service of Speed Queen HQ as they patiently answered any questions that I had, sent me the parts and troubleshooting manuals via e-mail, and spoke of some of the history of the machines. According to them, the washer's last "major" redesign was in the late 1990s, and the dryer hasn't had a major redesign in 24 years. If it ain't broke... I'm just glad they have the new controls panels...as 90s as they are, they are still an improvement. I told the guy they should bring back some of the style they SQ's had in the 60s, etc. He chuckled and pretty much said they're pretty stodgy on design. I did order the cool color (red) inserts for the knobs...we'll see how they turn out. And I've ordered the "Crown" badge/logo that is usually on the front left of SQ cabinets, but missing on these models for some reason. I'm also thrilled to have a great 210� agitator with long sweep action than the corkscrews we've dealt with for the past twenty years. Looking forward to a non-dancing washer during spin and some soothing old-school washer noises. No more chug-chug-chug-chug-chug-chug for me! Don't get me wrong, we've had excellent service from Whirlpool for 30 years, but the Cabrio turned out to be a deal breaker lasting only until the warranty was up (the lid started rusting, but was "patched up" by the 2nd repair man - the first never showed up). We checked out the newer machines and hate the "sensor" technology, etc. I'm perfectly capable of determining water levels and wash types myself, thank you. My local dealer was great. Her knowledge of SQ was a little lacking as she's not been a dealer but for 1.5 years, but they made up for that in service. Although they are 40 miles away, I performed the entire transaction over the phone. The dryer is going to be customized for a left vent option (never even knew such a thing was possible! Thanks SQ!), they are going to reverse the door and install it--all at the whopping charge of $35. Wow. I don't even have to pay for it until it arrives at the house. Amazing. Take that Home Depot/Lowe's! The dealer and the service I received from SQ made the decision easy...and I feel great in supporting a local dealer and supporting a legendary American company (insert flag waving here). lol Something I found interesting. According to the manual, you must fill the tub with at least 1 quart of water. I'm guessing this primes the pump. Never heard of that--but will be sure to do it before the first use. Another great SQ benefit--very detailed and useful owner's manuals. Anyway, just wanted to throw out an initial post as I just registered for the site--along with a "thank you" for all the great info!

Post# 391272 , Reply# 25 11/6/2009 at 17:46 (5,284 days old) by yogitunes (New Jersey)
Checkrate/Likes Dan....can you give us the customer service number and their email address?

Post# 391288 , Reply# 26 11/6/2009 at 18:46 (5,284 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)
Checkrate/Likes *Congatulations on your new SQ purchase* You will be very pleased with your machines, I love mine so much, I bought a set for my mom three months after I had mine delivered. Best of luck to you. Mike

Post# 391335 , Reply# 27 11/6/2009 at 21:09 (5,284 days old) by jeffg ()
Checkrate/Likes Dan, welcome to the SQ club. If you have any questions when you get the set, let us know.

Post# 391343 , Reply# 28 11/6/2009 at 21:51 (5,284 days old) by djmjlcst (Bloomington, Illinois)
Checkrate/Likes *Congrats on the decision to purchase the SQ's!* Hey Dan, You made a wise choice! You're going to have years of trouble free service from an excellent company that truly backs their products with the best warranty in the business! I've been thinking about purchasing my 3rd SQ washer when the laundry room gets a newer remodel. We certainly have the plumbing already run for it. All we need to do is get another outlet on a different circuit and we're in business. Please let us all know when they arrive and what your impressions of them when you see and hear them operate. They are quiet and never get out of balance when they spin. If my Dad's Maytag Atlantis washer & dryer ever goes bad, I'll replace them with a set of SQ's - he'll love the simplicity of the operation. Gotta love Dad though, he doesn't read the manual to operate the washer so I had to write the instructions down on a set of index cards! He's now 88 years old. - Enjoy your purchase! - Mike L.

Post# 391406 , Reply# 29 11/7/2009 at 08:47 (5,283 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes Speed Queen customer service number is (920) 748-3121. Also to anyone ordering a new SQ, be sure to save the shipping material for the TL (brace and plug)...you need it when you move to help prevent damage to the washer--another great point from the manual. (when you can't get a new toy for a few days, it's always fun to read the manuals as a way of passing time). :) My research even went as far as searching the area for a Speed Queen laundromat. I finally found one (most are Maytags around here for some reason with FLs). The one I found still had TLs and I was lucky to go when there wasn't anyone else there. I was able to gauge the sounds/performance of the machine there...pretty much everything everyone said and matched the sounds I had heard on the videos (just quieter). The stainless steel tubs are mesmerizing. The laundromat tubs looked much smaller to me, and I was concerned about that--but I believe the laundromat versions are something like 2.8 cu ft, and also they don't have the fabric softener dispenser "crown" on top, so it could make it seem smaller than it is. I'm thinking the capacity should be fine. It was also interesting that Speed Queens are deeper/narrower than Whirlpools. This was going to be a problem with the dryer until I discovered the mult-venting options. Our dryer vent in on the left wall in a laundry closet. Even with a right angle duct adapter it was not going to fit. Again, the owner's manual showed a solution with multi-vent options. I bought the kit and the dealer is going to install that as well. I'm keeping the knock-outs as I may need them if it's ever moved. I bought 90� gooseneck hoses for the washer to add some more space. The "ledge" at the back of the washer is interesting as well. Now, I wish someone would post or message a "how to" on the switch bypass and water level adjustments. I want to do these updates, but really don't want to mess anything up, as one would imagine. Everyone has said they are simple to do, but you know how it is. A note on indexing (which I think is a cool feature). From Speed Queen: "...According to our manufacturing specs...the washtub can rotate up to 5 revolutions per minute with a 14lb load and maximum water fill. With a smaller load there is less indexing, no load I would expect almost no indexing." Case solved on indexing...depends on the weight. I'm also looking forward to the "wrinkle out" option on the dryer. I do a similar process on timed drying to fluff up those clothes I don't want to iron. Nice to have a cycle just for that now. I'll post pics of the panels with color inserts when I get everything in and set up.

Post# 391435 , Reply# 30 11/7/2009 at 10:13 (5,283 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)
Checkrate/Likes *Adjusting the water level* Dan, On the back panel of the washer there are three screws. One on the right, the left, and the middle. Unscrew these, you may need to use a tiny wrench to do so. Once unscrewed tilt the control panel foward and look for the water level switch. There is a screw on this switch. Turn it clockise 1/4 to raise the water level. Check the water level. If it is not to your liking drain the machine, and turn the screw another 1/4 turn until the height is to your preference. Unplug the machine while doing this adjustment. If I can do this, and I am semi-mechanically inclined, anyone can do it. I think it was Jeff G who orginally posted the manual. Good luck.

Post# 391459 , Reply# 31 11/7/2009 at 12:12 (5,283 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes Awesome! I'll give that adjustment a try next week if the water level isn't up to what I want. Thanks for the info!

Post# 391465 , Reply# 32 11/7/2009 at 12:34 (5,283 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)
Checkrate/Likes CR's top-rating of the Raytheon-made Amana TL washer back in 1997 was the biggest bum steer I ever got, and I let my subscription lapse as a result. That Amana ate belts on a regular basis and did a lousy job of rinsing. Yet, when discussing that machine with another AW member recently we both agreed that behind the front panel, the guts looked so promisingly Maytag-esque. If only they had been. Just changing the belt was a major undertaking. From what I've read here, it seems SQ is the way to go for a new TL machine. May you enjoy many satisfying years of performance from yours.

Post# 391605 , Reply# 33 11/8/2009 at 09:24 (5,282 days old) by jeffg ()
Checkrate/Likes > Dan, On the back panel of the washer there are three screws. One on the right, the left, and the middle. Unscrew these, you may need to use a tiny wrench to do so. Once unscrewed tilt the control panel foward and look for the water level switch. There is a screw on this switch. Turn it clockise 1/4 to raise the water level. Check the water level. If it is not to your liking drain the machine, and turn the screw another 1/4 turn until the height is to your preference. Unplug the machine while doing this adjustment. If I can do this, and I am semi-mechanically inclined, anyone can do it. I think it was Jeff G who orginally posted the manual. Good luck. < A 1/4 clockwise turn equals an increase of one full inch of water height, so adjust carefully. There's a few ways to bypass the lid switch. You can either remove the top of the washer and it'll be obvious where the switch is and how to bypass it, or, if you don't want to take the top off, just hook one end of a long (30-32") bungee cord on the steel lever that leads to the switch (it's under the top edge, in back), and hook the other end to the bottom of the washer. There should be gentle downward pressure on the lever, enough to trip the switch but not enough to bend or damage the lever. The service manual (or probably older versions of it, but the basic washer design hasn't changed since) can be found here: www.servicematters.com/maytag_lib... or here: CLICK HERE TO GO TO jeffg's LINK

Post# 391609 , Reply# 34 11/8/2009 at 09:48 (5,282 days old) by jeffg ()
Checkrate/Likes One other note: when tilting the control panel forward, the ends of another three screws will be exposed, and these ends can easily scratch the front of the control panel (you'll see what I'm talking about when you tilt the panel). Be careful.

Post# 392303 , Reply# 35 11/10/2009 at 20:25 (5,280 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes *Dryer - Left Vent Option* Well, I thought the venting to the left side of the dryer was a simple thing. Turns out SQ recommends that the "bulk head" aka drum is removed in order to ease installation, and that special precaution be observed when reinstalling the bulk head and alignment to the silicon pads or else I will see a noisy drum in the months to come. Great...not something that I can do myself as I originally thought. The part was delayed and will not be here until Thursday. Concerned that the "installer" guys would screw it up, the dealer is going to outsource that to the repair shop--hope they do it right. Wish me luck, feels weird to know that the dryer will have been disassembled and put back together before I even get them. :- I'll keep ya posted--wish me luck!

Post# 392440 , Reply# 36 11/11/2009 at 08:55 (5,279 days old) by rayjay (Carteret, New Jersey)
Checkrate/Likes *Spped Queen Customer Service* I am looking at the front loader by Speed Queen. I have found that their customer service department is excellent. I alwyas get a prompt email back from them. They answered all my questions. The front loaders use 4.63 gallons per fill. Now I do not know if this is good or bad. A total of 14 or more gallons with one wash and two rinses, and extra rinse adds another 4.63 gallons. Now this 4.63 is just average. What I am asking........Is this a little more water per fill than other front loaders? Thanks.

Post# 392442 , Reply# 37 11/11/2009 at 09:01 (5,279 days old) by yogitunes (New Jersey)
Checkrate/Likes My question would be....Can you open it up and adjust the water level via the pressure switch or is it permanent set like in the frigidaires?

Post# 393146 , Reply# 38 11/14/2009 at 02:23 (5,277 days old) by strongenough78 (California)
Checkrate/Likes A couple questions about Speed Queen.....do they have the longer, slower agitation stroke, how fast are the spin speeds, (normal, gentle) and are they sold in stores? I don't think I've ever seen them, and until I joined this site, I thought they were only made for laundromats lol.

Post# 393149 , Reply# 39 11/14/2009 at 03:18 (5,277 days old) by strongenough78 (California)
Checkrate/Likes *Hey I found my answers lol* I found Speed Queens website, they still have the long, slower agitation stroke, and the spin speed is 710 RPM! I'm wondering if they were always that fast, since my apartments used to use Speed Queens. I liked them, but I'll admit when they brought in Direct Drive Whirlpools. I love the deep tubs, but now I miss the Queens. I may use a laundromat close by that uses Speed Queens for old times sake lol. And if I ever get out of this apartment and into a house with W/D hook ups, I may look into getting a new set of Queens. Although I REALLY want an older Maytag 806 set! Decisions, decisions lol.

Post# 393168 , Reply# 40 11/14/2009 at 07:32 (5,276 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes The 210� and 710 RPMs have been around for a VERY long time...not sure how long though. The stroke can be visible on every SQ that I've ever seen (including wringers--where's that darn protractor). It's so nice to just hear a whrrrring noise of the machine vs. the crazy thumping of my prev Whirlpools short stroke. The spin is A M A Z I N G. Absolutely NO vibration that is visible or audible, and no louder than the wash cycle while doing so. Also clothes don't seem nearly as compress (aka pact up against the tub wall) as I'm use to...I'm hoping that translates into less wrinkles. I was concerned about the tubs as well coming from Whirlpool, but I think most laundromat versions are 2.8 cu feet vs. 3.3. I see no issues with mine once I got it installed last night (FINALLY!). The agitator is much smaller the Whirlpool corkscrew and make for even more room. It gently moves the clothes around the tub with that long stroke--even on large loads. Also the tub will index on large loads--moving clothes around even more. I am going to have to increase the water level switch as mentioned in this thread as it fills to what I would consider a "large" load, not superlarge--at least there is an option for that (although you have to work for it a little). Will post pics once the inserts come in and I'm all tweaked out.

Post# 393206 , Reply# 41 11/14/2009 at 11:08 (5,276 days old) by jeffg ()
Checkrate/Likes Dan, for most loads (dress and casual shirts, cotton and denim pants etc) we use the SQ's slower spin speed. Drying time only takes an extra 10-15 minutes and the clothes come out of the dryer wrinkle free and ready to wear.

Post# 393228 , Reply# 42 11/14/2009 at 12:31 (5,276 days old) by nmassman44 (Brooksville Florida)
Checkrate/Likes I love my Speed Queen washer as well. I did have to raise the water level since like others have found that its too low for a full washload. CU has really gone downhill and what they recommend sometimes doesnt last. Look at how they rated the Maytag Neptune TL a few years ago. They said it raised the standard by which all other machine are judged against for washability. So people went out about this POS machine and many were returned. We bought the Maytag Samsung built Neptunes...washer is history after almost 4 years. I take what CU says with a grain of salt lately. I ended up cancelling my subscription to it since they were not showing all the products that they are rating. Their "Select Ratings" sucks. And on top of that if you want to see all the ratings you have to subscribe to CU online. Nah I will pass. I will say one thing about my SQ washer is that it cleans well. But the agitator vanes need to clear the base a bit more so t doesnt trap lint in the flex vanes. The 710 spin does OK but the spin could be a tad longer and the spray rinse should be moved so it doesnt dump clean water into the wash water draining away. If I am at the machine I will let it drain and come up to speed then reset it at the "spray" and it will spray for a good long 2 minutes.I still double deep rinse every load. Now I am looking forward to getting the dryer.

Post# 393232 , Reply# 43 11/14/2009 at 13:00 (5,276 days old) by jeffg ()
Checkrate/Likes > the spray rinse should be moved so it doesnt dump clean water into the wash water draining away. < The only time I've seen this happen with our SQ is when we've put too much detergent in, and the tub is close to sudslock. It's never actually locked, but with a lot of suds it takes longer to ramp up to full spin speed, and that's when the spray rinse kicks in before it's up to speed.

Post# 393271 , Reply# 44 11/14/2009 at 16:12 (5,276 days old) by nmassman44 (Brooksville Florida)
Checkrate/Likes Never had the washer sudslock on me at all. When I choose the Ex Large water level the washer does drain fast but for some oddball reason once the water level switch is reset them the water will spray in. Doesnt last long maybe 30 seconds but thats the spray rinse. With smaller loads the washer does get up to full speed then it will spray.

Post# 393298 , Reply# 45 11/14/2009 at 18:03 (5,276 days old) by ras55 ()
Checkrate/Likes I also agree that CU is biased against Top Loaders. This is only anecdotal but it is the result of asking everyone I know with a front loader whether they are happy and it seems anyone with one two years old has had to deal with a lot of repairs. I am kicking and cussing at my GE top loader because after 6 years the motor is hinking out (only works on fast) because my last top loader lasted 12 years with zero problems. Consumer reports wasn't testing for the very serious issue of vibration on front loaders for years. American front loaders are huge and vibration is a serious issue and even more serious for anyone with an install not on a concrete slab.

Post# 393325 , Reply# 46 11/14/2009 at 20:37 (5,276 days old) by yogitunes (New Jersey)
Checkrate/Likes *Mike.........* What's the end of your drain hose look like?..... if its has the corrugated hose with the "funnel" at the end...and depending on your drain pipe (should be 1 1/2inch minimum)....cut this end off, and keep the hose as short as possible, ether by ctting it short or shoving it into the drain pipe....you would be suprised how much faster the water pump out and ramps up to speed quicker.... I did this on my Mother in Laws SQ TL.....it allowed more water to be pumped at a faster rate rather than be restricted by that funneled end.....just a thought

Post# 393334 , Reply# 47 11/14/2009 at 21:30 (5,276 days old) by nmassman44 (Brooksville Florida)
Checkrate/Likes Already did that Yogi....The washer does pump out faster yet it spray rinses too early. I have to get a video made so you guys can see what I mean.

Post# 393358 , Reply# 48 11/14/2009 at 23:15 (5,276 days old) by rp2813 (Sannazay)
Checkrate/Likes Yeah, the '97 Amantheon we had did the same thing most of the time. It started the spray rinse before the tub was even up to speed. I really wanted to like that machine but it fought me every step of the way.

Post# 393393 , Reply# 49 11/15/2009 at 05:29 (5,275 days old) by angus (Fairfield, CT.)
Checkrate/Likes I don't think that the spray rinse should be starting that soon. My SQ comes up to full spin speed well before the spray rinse starts. Now mine is almost 4 years old, so the cycle timing may have changed somewhat...

Post# 393396 , Reply# 50 11/15/2009 at 05:49 (5,275 days old) by jeffg ()
Checkrate/Likes Mike, does the same thing happen on all cycles, or just the Normal cycle?

Post# 393403 , Reply# 51 11/15/2009 at 08:41 (5,275 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)
Checkrate/Likes *Cycle Diagram* Is there a cycle diagram chart folded up in the console that might indicate whether this is normal behavior or a malfunction? Malcolm

Post# 393419 , Reply# 52 11/15/2009 at 11:08 (5,275 days old) by nmassman44 (Brooksville Florida)
Checkrate/Likes Its all cycles and I think it was designed that way. Its not a biggie.

Post# 394100 , Reply# 53 11/17/2009 at 21:53 (5,273 days old) by strongenough78 (California)
Checkrate/Likes *I got to use some Speed Queens!* I went to a laundromat nearby that has Speed Queens. As happy as I was to use them, I was also a little disappointed for a while. I need to tell the caretaker to have the water levels adjusted. A few of them were too low, and for a while I was worried I'd have to run them through another cycle to get them properly rinsed. However, by the end of the rinse cycle, the suds had cut down a lot and my clothes didn't feel soapy at all. I was afraid I'd end up with clumps of soap on them, or that icky soapy feel when they were done, but, they came out fine! I'm still going to mention it to someone though, so the next time I go there, I won't have to worry. And for those of you wondering, I didn't overload or oversoap them lol. But there were a lot of suds since the water levels were so low, especially in the washer I washed my denim work pants in. And everything came out clean!

Post# 394164 , Reply# 54 11/18/2009 at 03:32 (5,273 days old) by alr2903 (TN)
Checkrate/Likes my brand new neutral drain frigidaire, started the spray when the timer clicked on the spin, but it sprayed appox 30 seconds.. The frigidaires should not really be criticized for what they cost (for the t/l) they are a steal. They are an average performer at best. alr2903

Post# 394566 , Reply# 55 11/19/2009 at 16:53 (5,271 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes I had to adjust my new Speed Queen by 1.5" of water! They are set that low due to EPA regulations. Also the hot water is "restricted flow" and it fills slower than cold or warm (according to SQ), again EPA. HOW that helps environmental issues, who knows. Speed Queen laundromats helped me evaluate my SQ purchase. The machines are very "duty-driven", meaning that it does what it needs to in 30 minutes...while you think that's not enough time, it certain is in a SQ. The three minute rinse seems extremely quick to me, but the spin/rinse is always perfect...go figure. I love how dutiful and unassuming the machines are--thrilled so far, on day 5!

Post# 394646 , Reply# 56 11/20/2009 at 00:56 (5,271 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)
Checkrate/Likes *Pictures?* Can u post some pictures soon?

Post# 394649 , Reply# 57 11/20/2009 at 02:01 (5,271 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes Oh yeah, going to post several as soon as I can...and some YouTube's as well.

Post# 394849 , Reply# 58 11/20/2009 at 23:39 (5,270 days old) by djmjlcst (Bloomington, Illinois)
Checkrate/Likes *Spray Rinse Feature* I had a thought on this. Do you suppose the spray rinse happens soon on the newer SQ's during the spin because the water level was initially set at the factory at a lower level. This might result in the tub draining quicker, then the spray rinse would be right where it should be. It's just a thought. Our SQ is the 2007 model, and it ramps up to spin speed for a good couple minutes before the spray rinse starts (or so it seems). Mike L.

Post# 394858 , Reply# 59 11/21/2009 at 00:46 (5,270 days old) by danmantn (Tennessee)
Checkrate/Likes My 2009 model does the same...spray after ramp up.

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