Thread Number: 45257
Don't Do LG Topload Washer Recall Unless You Want Wet Clothes
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Post# 663026   2/28/2013 at 10:47 (4,072 days old) by Powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        

I had the LG topload washer recall done a few weeks ago and now my washer does not spin at 1100rpms. When I select the Extra High spin speed it spins a little faster than a gentle spin speed. Clothes are very heavy with water due to slow spin speed. Unacceptable especially after spinning for 20 minutes.

I was told by Brandon (customer service supervisor) that this normal because the new control board software does not allow the washer to spin at such high speeds due to recent explosions, and he was "sorry" because there is nothing he could do. I stated to him that this is not the consumers' fault. I purchased this washer because it is an H.E. washer. It is supposed to save water and energy. My clothes take over an hour to dry now because of all this damn water not spun out of them.

I spoke to someone in another department and he is sending an in-house specialist on Monday to inspect my washer. LG was courteous enough to give me an extended warranty for this problem only. My washer was working fine until this recall work was done.





Post# 663037 , Reply# 1   2/28/2013 at 11:48 (4,072 days old) by rinso (Meridian Idaho)        

Yet another recall band-aid fix, rather than solving the real problem.

Post# 663044 , Reply# 2   2/28/2013 at 12:58 (4,071 days old) by StrongEnough78 (California)        

strongenough78's profile picture
Return it and get something else.

Post# 663046 , Reply# 3   2/28/2013 at 13:38 (4,071 days old) by georgect (Fairfield, CT)        
Like I said on the other forum

georgect's profile picture
This just makes me hate LG more and more when I read something like this.

Like rinso said, instead of getting to the REAL issue (off balance sensors) they slapped a ban-aid on it slowing the spin speed down to something ridiculous.

Yeah, no more exploding washers but now the thing doesn't spin the clothes fast enough to wring the water out.

Bad LG...Bad!


Post# 663054 , Reply# 4   2/28/2013 at 14:00 (4,071 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
I Do Want To Return Them

I really do. I've had them for over two years. Washer was working fine until this recall work was done. And for LG to tell me that it is now supposed to do this. It's not my fault the machines were not manufactured to handle high spin speeds. It is advertised to do 1100rpms and that is what it should do.

I will NEVER EVER EVER buy LG products again. NEVER!!!!


Post# 663057 , Reply# 5   2/28/2013 at 14:05 (4,071 days old) by dj-Gabriele ()        

Under Italian law that'd be breach of contract because the product isn't anymore the same as you bought it and regardless of the date of purchase you should be entitled of a swap or refund, isn't there any local law you can apply?!

LG has always been crap, but never thought to this extent...


Post# 663061 , Reply# 6   2/28/2013 at 14:21 (4,071 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        

I will check to see if there are some consumer laws that will help me with this situation. This is utterly ridiculous.

Post# 663079 , Reply# 7   2/28/2013 at 15:52 (4,071 days old) by DirectDriveDave ()        

What kind of nonsense is that??


SO glad I don't have one of these.....So I guess the suspension is just as bad as before, then!


Post# 663092 , Reply# 8   2/28/2013 at 16:51 (4,071 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
RPM Meter

mrb627's profile picture
Maybe you should get an rpm meter and check it.

Malcolm


Post# 663097 , Reply# 9   2/28/2013 at 17:06 (4,071 days old) by pulltostart (Mobile, AL)        

pulltostart's profile picture

Seems to me that if the manufacturer offered that product with certain performance characteristics, and those (especially one) of those characteristics was the reason you purchased the product, then the manufacturer deliberately removed the appliance's ability to perform as previously advertised AND offered - there are your grounds for return/exchange/refund or whatever recourse you want to pursue.  The change in the behavior and performance of the appliance had nothing to to with either your use or abuse - the manufacturer pursued this on their own.  And they can't claim that prior to the recall work the appliance did not perform as advertised, because you know, and can testify to the fact, that it did.

 

Face it - LG took away your 'happy place' and they (not you) should be held accountable.

 

lawrence


Post# 663340 , Reply# 10   3/1/2013 at 19:33 (4,070 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
Received A Letter From LG

I just received a letter from LG informing that I should not wash certain items in my LG topload washer (i.e. mattress pads, mattress covers, rain gear, camping gear, etc). What the hell! LG manufacturers inferior topload washers and the consumers has to pay the price. Shaking my head.

Post# 663352 , Reply# 11   3/1/2013 at 20:08 (4,070 days old) by dj-gabriele ()        

Seek the help of a consumer association and ask for a total refound or a new machine from a different manufacturer! (And possibly an American or European one and not crappy Korean stuff...)

Post# 663387 , Reply# 12   3/2/2013 at 00:13 (4,070 days old) by tolivac (greenville nc)        

Trade,sell,refund the LG's toward VINTAGE machines from a swap shop!Then you are more free to wash what you want.

Post# 663442 , Reply# 13   3/2/2013 at 08:51 (4,070 days old) by cuffs054 (MONTICELLO, GA)        

Ya know, this is getting to be the "norm". Cadillac recalled my SRX to fix a timing chain "issue". The fix was to "de-tune" the very friggin' engine that they touted to sell the damn car. So I ended up with a much less fun to drive car.

Post# 663451 , Reply# 14   3/2/2013 at 09:47 (4,070 days old) by logixx (Germany)        

logixx's profile picture
That's why you can find people posting 2+ hours videos of the LG on YouTube...

CLICK HERE TO GO TO logixx's LINK


Post# 663470 , Reply# 15   3/2/2013 at 12:51 (4,069 days old) by ptcruiser51 (Boynton Beach, FL)        
GE Profile

ptcruiser51's profile picture
Brought a machine to our floor a couple months ago. It's just a rebadged LG TL. There's a warning inside the lid that tells you not to put in sleeping bags, sneakers and the like. Then what is the "bulky" cycle for? Crinolines?

Post# 663473 , Reply# 16   3/2/2013 at 12:57 (4,069 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Ge Harmony

mrb627's profile picture
I had one of the versions of the GE HARMONY. It had a sneakers cycle that worked quite well.

Malcolm


Post# 663482 , Reply# 17   3/2/2013 at 13:08 (4,069 days old) by logixx (Germany)        
"I should not wash certain items"

logixx's profile picture
"Certain Items" are mainly water-proof and water-resistant items. I guess these items can hold water and release it suddenly during the high-speed spin cycle.

CLICK HERE TO GO TO logixx's LINK


Post# 663510 , Reply# 18   3/2/2013 at 14:53 (4,069 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
^^ There is that.


Post# 663518 , Reply# 19   3/2/2013 at 16:03 (4,069 days old) by ronhic (Canberra, Australia)        

ronhic's profile picture
Under Australian law, you would also be able to seek a refund as the machine is now no longer as advertised and will no longer perform a function which it should - high speed spin.

Get some advice and see what you can do.


Post# 663738 , Reply# 20   3/4/2013 at 01:41 (4,068 days old) by qualin (Canada)        

Other than replacing your machines outright, which I think it sucks you got burned on, there is a way you can get around the wet clothing issue.

I recommend getting your hands on a Charming spinner. Just set your machine for no spin and let the Charming do the rest of the work.

Good luck!



Post# 663745 , Reply# 21   3/4/2013 at 02:59 (4,068 days old) by dj-gabriele ()        

Qualin, why should he have to spend more money to work around the deficiencies of a faulty machine?
Plus a machine that doesn't spin is a machine that doesn't rinse and LG is a looser in all the aspects!


Post# 663748 , Reply# 22   3/4/2013 at 03:37 (4,068 days old) by alr2903 (TN)        

I think this shabby washer construction will come to an end. Just wait until some inquisitive child is injured or worse. I understand the concern about water savings. Where in the world are the UL people and such?

Post# 663793 , Reply# 23   3/4/2013 at 12:00 (4,068 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
LG Technician Came And Left With No Results

The technician came this morning and saw for himself how slow my washer was spinning. He rewrote the software update program and did a Spin Only cycle test and the washer did spin a tad faster. However, I decided to do a load and observe what happened during the final spin. The same slow spin speed occured once again.

I contacted LG and told them I was unhappy with the recall software and the representative (a very nice lady name Jenna) spoke to her supervisor. The supervisor suggested the software be removed at my permission. I agreed. A technician is coming next week to remove the recall software and we will see what happens then.

P.S. Qualin, your suggestion is a good one; however, I don't see why I have to go through hoops because LG goofed on my machine. I should not have to use a spin dryer, nor should I have to "re-spin" clothes after a 20 minute final spin just because LG decided to slow my washer down to a 500 or so rpm spin because my machine might spin apart. The engineers should have thought of this when the machines were being designed.


Post# 663798 , Reply# 24   3/4/2013 at 12:38 (4,067 days old) by whirlcool (Just North Of Houston, Texas)        

Here in the U.S companies have teams of lawyers that spend their days trying to screw their customers by side stepping consumer laws. Now this business of detuning products is beyond unacceptable. As someone else said when they do this it is no longer the product you originally purchased. The "use and enjoyment" of the product has been diminished.

Someone needs to take one of these washers down to LG's US headquarters and dump it in their lobby and picket the building. Maybe if a few thousand show up all at once they may do something.


Post# 663815 , Reply# 25   3/4/2013 at 15:16 (4,067 days old) by electron1100 (England)        
worrying

electron1100's profile picture
What worries me is that commpanies like LG will happily kill off established manufacturers of machines until we in the west are totally reliant on them to provide us with consumer goods, and this is what we will end up with 3rd rate equipment but of course by then they will calling all the shots and we as consumers will be pissed on from a great height.

This is not good at all, there is absolutely no excuse for any manufacturer today to make unreliable or faulty goods, all the lessons learnt over the years should be put into practise, but of course every new generation of buyers wont be aware of this when they are looking at the new all singing all dancing glitter boxes.

Good luck with your spin problem

Gary


Post# 663885 , Reply# 26   3/4/2013 at 22:34 (4,067 days old) by vintagesearch ()        
sorry to hear that.

I'm really sorry to hear that. We have the lower end LG waveforce without the glass lid. And it usually senses the out of balance load and stops automatically even if it's during agitation and it will stop and and the "UE" code comes up. My aunt and uncle have the one with the glass top and there's does the same as ours. Demand LG exchange the washer for the newer generation one! They all now have been modified my coworker has the white glass top and she said hers does the same as mines and we all purchased them around the same time about 2 months ago. I posted pictures of mines in an older thread. I hope for the best but they should exchange it for a newer one. Take it from me I know 4 other people that purchased there LG toploaders within the past few months and none of us had issues with it blowing up thank God. Best of luck and keep us posted.

Post# 663888 , Reply# 27   3/4/2013 at 22:53 (4,067 days old) by qualin (Canada)        

You know, I can understand not wanting to spend more to make up for a shortcoming on a machine. It's like you've been victimized and I can understand that.

Like anything, I'm sure we've all purchased a defective or poorly thought out product in our lifespans. Unfortunately, in my case, mine said "Chevrolet" on it. 5 years of hard work and it was already falling apart by the 3rd year I owned it.
$4000 in repairs in the time I owned that rolling money pit....

I think it sucks that you bought a lemon of a machine and that a firmware fix just isn't going to fix it. Removing the "Fix" will just make the machine dangerous again.

So, I guess here's what I'd do.. I'd unload your LG washer ASAP for whatever you can get for it. EBay it, give it a friend you don't like all that much, make a youtube video of it exploding, bring it down to the local firing range for target practice, put it on Craigslist as the washer of death... whatever...

Then I would go out and buy a Speed Queen. Front loader or Top loader. Then, I'd know that what was sitting in my laundry room was built from tried and proven technology and that it will last me many many years, without any recalls, explosions, worry or fuss. I realize that I sound like a commercial, but I personally own some products from this company and they really are well made.

I was considering buying an LG washer myself before I found these forums. I did my research and didn't want to get burned on a $1200 washer. Even if I had, a few short months of work and I could have always replaced it. However, the forum did save me a lot of hard work, a lot of time and it helped me make a great judgement.

It is very easy to say that the consumer speaks loudest with their dollar. Instead of trying to get your moneys worth out of something that doesn't work and is doing nothing more than causing you stress and frustration, how about buying something that does work and puts your mind at ease instead?

Many of the Speed Queen top loaders sell for under $800.. and that's a bargain. Compared to buying a clothes spinner, I'd say that's a better investment IMHO!


Post# 663890 , Reply# 28   3/4/2013 at 23:11 (4,067 days old) by qualin (Canada)        
To Gary

> What worries me is that commpanies like LG will happily kill off established
> manufacturers of machines until we in the west are totally reliant on them to
> provide us with consumer goods, and this is what we will end up with 3rd rate
> equipment but of course by then they will calling all the shots and we as
> consumers will be pissed on from a great height.

The problem Gary is that a lot of people don't want to pay for quality. They want the cheapest goods that money can buy with the most amount of gadgets, toys and functionality without any regard to what is under the metal.

But, as long as people ignore the gadgets and keep buying products from companies which make quality products, those companies will be able to compete with LG and will survive because they have a customer base.

What I have a problem with is paying for quality product and getting garbage. When I pay a garbage price, I expect to get garbage.

> there is absolutely no excuse for any manufacturer today to make unreliable or
> faulty goods,

Somehow they do. It's usually caused by cost cutting. The engineers think of something great and the accountants tell them that they need to keep costs down, so they cut corners.

There are also some machines which are on the cutting edge of technology, so there are bound to be problems. Most noticeably, with these new top loading HE machines with the really soft suspension.

> every new generation of buyers wont be aware of this when they are looking at
> the new all singing all dancing glitter boxes.

Well, that's just it. It takes someone from the "New Generation" to blow a lot of money on a machine, experience the issues which the OP is experiencing and finally coming down to their senses and buying something that just works instead.

There are a lot of new technologies in the washing world which sound pretty awesome.. Things like Waveforce, HE Technology, EcoBubble, Steam generators, etc. Realistically, all it does is add complexity and cost to the machine without really offering much value in return. If anything, all it does is increase profits for the manufacturer because more service calls have to be made when it breaks and the damn thing went out of warranty a week before it broke.

Now, I'm not saying that the "Old" technology is the best, but rather tried and proven technologies that have been around for a while that "Just work."

For example, when GE introduced the "Filter Flo" back in 1958, it was a new "Gimmicky" technology, but it did work and it worked well. It worked so well that GE kept it in their line up from 1958 straight through to 1994. Why they got rid of it, I have no idea.

Like anything though, I think LG is going to learn a lot of hard lessons from this and the consumer will vote with their dollar. When they finally realize that they've developed the "Ford Pinto" of washing machines (Which they already have) and the reputation which comes with it, eventually they'll have such a bad reputation that they wouldn't be able to give them away for free.

.... and that is how the manufacturers of quality equipment stay in business.


Post# 663892 , Reply# 29   3/4/2013 at 23:31 (4,067 days old) by DigAPony ()        

These are the unintended consequences of the federal governments Energy Efficiency Standards.
(See link: "How Washington ruined your washing machine").

And there is more coming down the pike.

By 2014 the import and manufacture of incandescent light bulbs will be illegal in the United States!


CLICK HERE TO GO TO DigAPony's LINK


Post# 663931 , Reply# 30   3/5/2013 at 07:20 (4,067 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
How Washington Ruined Your Washing Machine?

combo52's profile picture

That is an opinion piece with lots of meths and other scare tactics, wasn't worth the time it took to read, LOL.


Post# 663940 , Reply# 31   3/5/2013 at 07:48 (4,067 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        
Scare tactics in print?

gansky1's profile picture
WSJ - sadly, has now become one of the contributors to the media mis-information revolution. Perhaps things are improving there, there are no results for a search at WSJ for the author of that opinion space-filling garbage.

The author works for the Competitive Enterprise Institute, an oil company-Koch brothers funded "libertarian think tank." LOL They barely rub up against reality. Take it all with a grain of detergent! LOL


Post# 664010 , Reply# 32   3/5/2013 at 15:22 (4,066 days old) by RevvinKevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        
Removing the "Fix" will just make the machine danger

revvinkevin's profile picture

 

 

Wow Qualin, do you really believe that??   These machines are SO unsafe out of the box they will randomly self destruct when being used properly and correctly??   Really??    

 

Powrbruh said he's used his set for over two years with zero problems and the washer has not destroyed it self once, imagine that!

 

While yes I agree LG is to fault for a possible "lacking" suspension design, but so more the total lack of off balance sensors to stop the washer from self destructing when it IS off balance while spinning.

 

But IMHO, more to blame is the consumer who is using the washer incorrectly by trying to wash large, bulky or single items like a single pillow on the "normal" cycle rather than the "bulky items" cycle like they are SUPPOSED to which reduces the spin speed.

 

All this reminds me of the problems Audi encountered in the early 80's with the "unintended acceleration" crap.   The people testing the cars were able to FORCIBLY reproduce the unintended acceleration under very specific and extreme test conditions, which would NEVER occur in any normal driving condition.   Just like this LG washer issue, the problem was the idiot behind the wheel, not the machine being used.

 

Kevin




This post was last edited 03/05/2013 at 16:24
Post# 664108 , Reply# 33   3/5/2013 at 22:22 (4,066 days old) by tecnopolis (Ocala/Dunnellon, Florida 34481)        

tecnopolis's profile picture
I thought all they needed was to reinforce the plastic corner tub mounts brackets with metal ones to fix the problem? I guess it's cheaper to just flash the software then to invest in any physical parts. So sad!!

Post# 664112 , Reply# 34   3/5/2013 at 22:40 (4,066 days old) by arbilab (Ft Worth TX (Ridglea))        

arbilab's profile picture
Sorry LG, there is no excuse for deleting balance sensors. A $15 toy helicopter has one, so how much could they possibly cost?

Even if the machine is used appropriately, it is possible for a normal load to wad up on one side of the tub and unbalance. That could happen in every washer I ever used. So I don't agree it's all operator error.

I DO agree that the factory derating the machine so it's no longer what you bought is a sorry excuse for a solution.


Post# 664133 , Reply# 35   3/6/2013 at 03:29 (4,066 days old) by qualin (Canada)        
To Kevin

>> Removing the "Fix" will just make the machine dangerous again.

> Wow Qualin, do you really believe that??

Well, I think there is an inherent design flaw in these machines. We've been complaining about it for a while. The stupid thing is, all LG needs to do is put an acceleration sensor on the outer tub and replace the control board with one which can take input from the sensor. (If there isn't a spare auxiliary header.) Of course, from LG's point of view, that is an expensive solution and not viable from a business point of view. Better in their eyes to risk the lawsuits than to spend the money. It basically is the "Ford Pinto" problem.

> These machines are SO unsafe out of the box they will randomly self destruct when being used properly and correctly??

Well, you see, that's not really my point. My point is that when the machine is being subjected to an abnormal operating condition, regardless of whether or not it is due to operator error or it is caused due to a shift in load balance, no machine, regardless of what kind of machine it is, should ever self-destruct, under any circumstances.

My old 2004 GE top loader made an absolute racket when it was unbalanced, but it never destroyed itself. My Mom's old 1963 GE Filter-Flo would happily walk around the basement floor if it was unbalanced, but it never self-destructed. (OK, maybe the tub boot could come loose as a result of that, but that's not my point.)

Every machine, regardless of whomever makes it, should always include the necessary safety devices to prevent the possibility of harm to property and individuals. This is why there are lid switches. Of course, it is certainly the operators fault if they bypass the lid switch and then complain about getting their arm ripped off if they jam it into a tub spinning at 1000 RPM. :-)

> Powrbruh said he's used his set for over two years with zero problems and the washer has not destroyed it self once, imagine that!

OK, That's a good testimonial, are they the same model as the one the OP is having issues with and the ones affected by the recall notice?

> more to blame is the consumer who is using the washer incorrectly by trying to wash large, bulky or single items like a single pillow on the "normal" cycle

I agree partially with this statement. User error certainly is a huge contributor towards this problem. There is a saying which says, "If you make something idiot proof, a smarter idiot will come along." .. (No offense to anyone!)

What I think LG lacked was nobody in their QA department seemed to think about placing the machine into a state where the settings on the machine are completely inappropriate for the load being washed. If they had, they would have probably refined their firmware or did some re-engineering to prevent this problem from happening.

To put this into perspective, Whirlpool deliberately makes their machines explode in their QA labs to find out ways to prevent it. There was a video which was briefly circulating around on youtube before they pulled it. I mean, to me, that is real engineering.

Now, in all honesty, I don't know of any other machine on the market which self destructs like this if incorrect settings are used on a completely inappropriate load. If anything, the machine is more likely to do damage to the clothing!


Post# 664292 , Reply# 36   3/6/2013 at 21:10 (4,065 days old) by Huebschman (Quebec, CA)        
Last Qualin post....

Here! Here!

I remember my mom's washing machine that walked a meter in less than a minute... Still worked great for the next decade...


Post# 664296 , Reply# 37   3/6/2013 at 23:29 (4,065 days old) by gansky1 (Omaha, The Home of the TV Dinner!)        
Could it be this simple?

gansky1's profile picture


LG has 457,000 machines affected in the recall. 343 (0.075%) reported excessive vibration and 187 (0.04%) reports of minor property damage. You have a higher risk of being struck by lightning than having an LG washing machine tear apart your house.




This post was last edited 03/06/2013 at 23:57
Post# 664307 , Reply# 38   3/7/2013 at 02:01 (4,065 days old) by alr2903 (TN)        

Greg, thank YOU! If thats the same lightning that dictates powerball odds, I totally get it. arthur

Post# 664310 , Reply# 39   3/7/2013 at 03:04 (4,065 days old) by dj-gabriele ()        
LG has 457,000 machines affected in the recall. 343 (0.075%)

LG has 457,000 machines affected in the recall. 343 (0.075%) reported excessive vibration and 187 (0.04%) reports of minor property damage.

That's A LOT! When here in Europe Candy Group had 5 faulty machines among the high capacity 1600 rpm models, with the drums shattering the machine cabinet if the weld came loose a HUGE revolt from the German and British press happened! I mean HUGE! For really NOTHING! 5 machines on a production run of over 2,4 millions!
And those were 5 machines spread over in A CONTINENT over a production run of 2,4 millions! And people were in HATE! If you call 187 "minor" on a less then half a million run, there are some serious concerns of what is safe and what not in my opinion...
Here numbers were in the 10^-6 range... if LG had something like that over there I'm sure all the machines of theirs would be banned from shops for a couple decades! (What a dream!)



Post# 664582 , Reply# 40   3/8/2013 at 14:51 (4,063 days old) by qualin (Canada)        
To Gansky1

Well, Gansky1, that certainly puts it into perspective, doesn't it?

I would certainly agree that putting in an "Out of Balance" buzzer or sounder would be considerably better than producing a cryptic "UE" code and then just giving up.

My mothers Filter-Flo out of balance alarm sounded like someone on Methamphetamines beating a garage door with a baseball bat. :-) "BAM! BAM! BAM! BAM!"

My GE washer would just make "KABLAMITYBLAMITYBLAMITYblamity...... blam..." noises..

Fortunately, a bit of a re-balance and both washers just carried on like nothing happened. :-)

I have to give GE credit for one thing.. they certainly learned how to fix the whole issue with the washer walking around...


Post# 664599 , Reply# 41   3/8/2013 at 18:28 (4,063 days old) by logixx (Germany)        

logixx's profile picture
I, too, wonder why there's no off-balance sensor on these. Didn't Fisher & Paykel once have sensors to register cabinet hits? The only extra sensor in there seems to the an overflow sensor:

Post# 665219 , Reply# 42   3/11/2013 at 19:35 (4,060 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
Another Bull**** Excuse

The same LG technician from last week came today to "repair" the stator and rotor. He said LG engineer said I was the only consumer complaining about the new recall software. I told him to check the internet and he would see differently.

He performed some test and found out my washer final spin is only 700rpms. He called LG and was told that 700rpms was normal for the new software. He stated to me that I would have to take up my issues with LG because there was nothing else he could do.

I called LG and told them that I HAVE HAD ENOUGH. Fix the damn washing machine or replace it. The rep, Jessi, infomred me that LG is sending yet another technician out in 3 to 5 business days and he/she would determine if a replacement is possible. I told her that I would continue to write, call, or email whomever until this matter is resolved because I will not accept otherwise.


Post# 665269 , Reply# 43   3/11/2013 at 23:15 (4,060 days old) by arbilab (Ft Worth TX (Ridglea))        

arbilab's profile picture
Not to diminish your disgruntlement, but 700rpm is not the end of the world. My 1998 FL ElectroFrigiWhite is 800rpm and while that's pale compared to my 1973 Panasonic twintub at 1700rpm it's not sopping wet either and takes barely over a half hour in my 120V Kenmore compact dryer.

By all means get the best settlement you can negotiate. As said times before, it is NOT the product you purchased and we all think you are entitled to compensation for that. But even if you are totally stonewalled, it is still usable. At least until something worse goes wrong. Eh?


Post# 665294 , Reply# 44   3/12/2013 at 01:19 (4,060 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Optional

mrb627's profile picture
It sure seems like the consumer should have been given a choice in the matter. Perhaps opting to pass on the update if they chose, but forfeiting the balance of the warranty. Imagine if the last major dishwasher recall due to fires resulted in disconnecting the heating element...

Malcolm


Post# 665299 , Reply# 45   3/12/2013 at 01:31 (4,060 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Harmony

mrb627's profile picture
It's also interesting that the Harmony machine has been out longer than the LG and I never heard of them exploding like the LG and they weren't included in the recall.

Malcolm


Post# 665311 , Reply# 46   3/12/2013 at 03:01 (4,060 days old) by dj-gabriele ()        
700rpm is not the end of the world

Are you sure?! To me 1200 rpm is a SLOW spin! But even if it was a small decrease (say from 1100 to 1000 rpm) I wouldn't have accepted it!
And as said why stick with an under-performing machine?! People at LG have always been crap at dealing with post sale service but this is ridiculous!
To me powrbruh is being too much patient, I would have sent something to a consumer association already and ask for a full refund to be able to purchase a new machine from a different manufacturer!


Post# 665352 , Reply# 47   3/12/2013 at 07:49 (4,060 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
I Agree

I do agree that I have been too patient. I have already filed a complaint with the Federal Trade Comission. I plan to do alot more than that. I think the problem with consumers in America is we accept what these big companies say and do to us without putting up a fight. The machine is ADVERTISED to do a 1100rpm final spin; not a 700rpm final spin. It was doing that before the recall work was done. For me, this is the "end of the world" when I purchased an appliance to provide me with energy savings. This is like someone buy a hybrid car that is supposed to 48mpg but it only gets 10mpg. Is one to accept that and say "it's not the end of the world"? Just something to think about.

Post# 665366 , Reply# 48   3/12/2013 at 08:59 (4,060 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)        
Website

mrb627's profile picture
Does LG's website still advertise the 1100rpm spin?

Malcolm


Post# 665374 , Reply# 49   3/12/2013 at 11:01 (4,060 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        

Malcolm,

Yes it does states the 5101HW spins at 1100rpms. I have printed a copy of it also. The newer generation of my washer states a final spin of 1100rpms as well. But I am told 700rpms is now the final spin speed. Bullsh*t!!!!


Post# 665380 , Reply# 50   3/12/2013 at 11:22 (4,060 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

frigilux's profile picture
I checked the LG website a couple of times to see if spin speeds had been altered, but they remain at full-on explosion speeds. I would venture a guess that the website hasn't been updated, but that all those machines have been reprogrammed to spin at 700---unless they've swapped out the problematic plastic parts. Which I doubt.

I know I'd be mad if, say, I bought a dishwasher that was rated at 42 decibels, only to find it was closer to 50 decibels when installed. Go get 'em, powrbruh!




This post was last edited 03/12/2013 at 13:04
Post# 665384 , Reply# 51   3/12/2013 at 11:36 (4,060 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)        
The problem Gary is that a lot of people don't want to p

Actually, the problem is that major corporations don't want to pay living wages or historical benefits and don't want to deal with environmental laws so they let foreign countries deal with all of that. You can look at the European model or the Chinese model and most manufacturers in the US chose to go to the Chinese model. Just yesterday there was a story about river water killing fish place in a container of it in two hours and many young people in the town along the river coming down with lung cancer. That is what American corporations don't want to see or deal with. To top it off, China is a military and commercial threat to this nation, but that does not matter if the corporations that pay all of the money to the politicians make huge profits with cheap foreign labor. I know this is a Korean product, but just wait a little bit. China will steal the company's secrets and be able to make it cheaper and that is where the US companies will go to have it made.

Post# 665525 , Reply# 52   3/13/2013 at 04:16 (4,059 days old) by qualin (Canada)        

A 700 RPM spin is fairly typical for most American-Style top loaders. It's been good enough for decades in North America from the late 40's straight through to the 1990's. I don't see how this is a problem.

While I do think that it sucks that your machine is now not really performing as advertised, I don't honestly think it is the end of the world.

Your clothes will still come out dry enough that they can be put into a dryer. It just means that your drying cycles will be a bit longer.

If you really want to spin dry your clothing, the Charming Spinner spins them faster than any washing machine on the market can, at 3200 RPM. Safely. Without exploding. Some items I've spun with it come out nearly dry, especially polyester/cotton blends.

Realistically, if you are so angry about your machine not living up to the expectations you wanted, sell the thing, get whatever you can get for it and buy something which does live up to its advertising.

IMHO, it just isn't worth fretting over.

Good luck.


Post# 665531 , Reply# 53   3/13/2013 at 05:37 (4,059 days old) by washer111 ()        
Hmmm

I suppose the point Powrbruh is trying to make is that its Not his problem that LG couldn't make a washer that wouldn't pose a danger to the public when loaded incorrectly or when spinning at high speed (wear/tear on cheap components). 

 

Why should he have to deal with their sloppy design and manufacturer? Why should he have to put up with crappy software updates that might save the washer (for a while, at least), that leaves his clothes much wetter than he wants? Why should he have to put up with a machine that is not living up to expectations?

 

If you want my opinion, stick this out. FORCE LG (with lawsuits or something) to compensate you/refund you WHATEVER! Then sell the machine/return and get something better. SpeedQueen, Frigidaire, Miele, whatever works FOR YOU! 

If you cant' be bothered, sell it it someone, but list it as 700rpm spin. Simple! "Cheap Washer, Works Good" "Nearly new LG being sold because its too big for our laundry/needs. Lots of cycles, spins at 700rpm" (Maybe don't include that!)


Post# 665546 , Reply# 54   3/13/2013 at 06:58 (4,059 days old) by PhilR (Quebec Canada)        

philr's profile picture

The technology from the 1940's allowed top-loading washers to spin at speed higher than 1100 RPM without self-destructing, I don't see why today's technology wouldn't allow it. I just finished two loads with my 56 years old Frigidaire this morning and it's still not self-destructing at 1140 RPM speed and I'm sure other posters in this thread do exactly the same!  Of course, it's jut a 9 pounds washer and it does get off-balance occasionally but it's still holding together fine!

 

I think that many new washers like the LG won't hold together so nicely as their plastic components age, even when correctly loaded...  But maybe they have a few other self-destructing parts like control boards that will go wrong and prevent a more dramatic failure before they get 20 or even just 10 years old (unless the faulty control board suddenly allows it to spin at extremely high uncontrolled speeds!). 

 

 


Post# 665652 , Reply# 55   3/13/2013 at 18:21 (4,058 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
THANK YOU WASHER111

Thank you for realizing what I was trying to state. There is a big difference between 700rpms and 1100rpms when it comes to drying heavy load. Let's not forget, my washer does not spin at 700rpms during the final spin. It's more like 500(something)rpms. It's very slow. I have recordings to prove it.

If someone wants to think I am making a big deal over this, that's fine. It's not going to stop me from doing what I feel is right. I bought a HIGH EFFICIENCY machine. Most regular toploaders spin at 600 to 700rpms. High effieciency spin higher to save the consumer money and energy in drying costs. I am not buying a spinner. I am hoping LG will exchange my set for a set that works as advertised. If not, then I will have to pursue whatever avenues necessary to get them to rectify this issue.


Post# 665709 , Reply# 56   3/14/2013 at 00:20 (4,058 days old) by georgect (Fairfield, CT)        
Stick it to LG

georgect's profile picture
Their (LG's) "work a round" fix of slowing the spin speed and making it longer is shotty service if I ever heard it.
I'm with you powrbruh, you didn't buy this machine you have now with the software change.

And with an HE machine, not only does it save on water but it's supposed to wring out almost all the water permissible, depending on fabric and cycle of course. Saving even more on drying resources.
That's why TOL washers have the highest spin speeds. More money spent up front is supposed to get you more/higher features (that's their selling point).

My current standard top loading 14 year old Whirlpool does a better job at wringing out water than your one year old LG HE machine.
My dryer, drying towels, underwear, sock and such takes 50 minutes and sheets take 30 minutes.


Post# 665744 , Reply# 57   3/14/2013 at 06:41 (4,058 days old) by logixx (Germany)        
Max spin

logixx's profile picture
I looked at a service manual (WT5070) thinking there's got to be a way for you to read out the spin speed as the drums spins. Usually, all LG washers will display things like drum speed, water level and temperature if one presses the right combination of buttons during the cycle. Couln't find it in the manual, though - just an overview for the test mode.

Post# 665750 , Reply# 58   3/14/2013 at 07:30 (4,058 days old) by washer111 ()        
10 times pushing

Pushing the button (Start/Pause) 10 times will get you a spin (high speed), showing T8 and RPM. It says so on the sheet above :-)


Post# 666126 , Reply# 59   3/15/2013 at 19:37 (4,056 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
@Qualin

launderess's profile picture
IIRC the mandated energy restrictions/use for American washing machines take into account the amount of water left in laundry after extraction. One supposes this factor was included because most Americans dry their laundry in tumble dryers.

Either gas or electric heated the use of dryers is probably the largest energy draw on wash day, well unless one is doing several loads in hot water with warm rinses suppose.

As for American top loaders historically not really going beyond 700rpms one has two thoughts. One is why should they? I mean until the "Energy Crisis" of the 1970's and other factors most American housewives either hung laundry outside to dry and or in the era of cheap energy didn't care how much gas or electric was used to dry nearly dripping wet laundry.

The other reason is one is certain bodily harm liability had something to do with things. I mean aside from Hoover and other twin tubs separate high speed extractors never really caught on with American homes, though they long could be found in commerical laundries. Though once common today it is rare to find a "Bock" or similar extractor in laundromats, well not at least around here. One inquired years ago as to why and was told it was due to liability issues. Apparently it is even difficult or impossible to get laundromat insurance if one has such extractors installed for customer use.

One of the only way top loading washing machines are going to survive in the United States is if they find clever ways to reduce energy consumption and that includes residual moisture.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO Launderess's LINK


Post# 666308 , Reply# 60   3/16/2013 at 15:56 (4,055 days old) by qualin (Canada)        

I will admit that does kind of irk me.. How back in the late 1940's, GE, Frigidaire and so forth could have top loaders spinning at 1140 RPM without issues.

Somehow it's just a big deal these days.. You'd think with CAD/CAM and simulations, they could design a washer that spins at those speeds easily.

The only rationale I can think of as to why modern washers can't do it without exploding is because of cost cutting measures.


Post# 666313 , Reply# 61   3/16/2013 at 16:11 (4,055 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
People Were Allot Less "Sue" Happy In The 1940's

launderess's profile picture
Well at least in the United States. *LOL*

IIRC Frigidare dropped their 1100rpm spin speed as the tub grew larger for greater capacity. The early models with fast spins had more of a bowl shaped tub, sort of what one finds in commercial extractors.

F&P's washers spin at >1000 rpms, so it is not unheard of for modern top loaders to reach those speeds. However IIRC Consumer Reports rates F&P washers as more repair prone than others on the US market.


Post# 666372 , Reply# 62   3/16/2013 at 20:59 (4,055 days old) by logixx (Germany)        
F&P's washers spin at >1000 rpms, so it is not unheard o

logixx's profile picture
Looking at AJ Madison, there are a bunch of GE, Maytag, Whirlpool, Samsung... and LG washers that spin at 1100 rpm. GE and Samsung are even up to 5 cu ft.

Post# 666385 , Reply# 63   3/16/2013 at 22:02 (4,055 days old) by arbilab (Ft Worth TX (Ridglea))        

arbilab's profile picture
With "exploding washers" do we have two distinct problems? One is clearly drum integrity. We've seen the photos of the drum literally unravelling from the G force of high spin and shooting through the outer tub and cabinet.

Is the other suspension integrity? Whereby the machine damages itself as a result of an unbalanced load plus substandard (plastic) suspension mounts. And/or, no effective means of detecting imbalance.

Our 50s Westy would whoop and bang and dance across the floor if the contents glommed up on one side of the drum. It would unseat the upper-rear suspension elements which would have to be reseated. I can't count how many times I did that. But it NEVER destroyed itself or anything around it.


Post# 666410 , Reply# 64   3/17/2013 at 03:30 (4,055 days old) by qualin (Canada)        

Well, when I've put my arm into these new HE machines, it seems to me like the tub moves around way too easily. I can bang the tub against the cabinet without trying too hard.

On machines which have more conventional suspensions, I have to work hard to do that.

So I know it must have something to do with the suspension. I would sooner that the washer hop around than slam the outer tub into the cabinet.


Post# 666426 , Reply# 65   3/17/2013 at 07:02 (4,055 days old) by Limey ()        
Spin Speed And Water Extraction

It is not the spin speed alone that determines the centrifugal force that acts on the water to remove it from the laundry. The diameter of the drum is also a factor. The smaller the drum the faster it has to rotate to generate the same centrifugal force as a slower turning larger drum.

Post# 666427 , Reply# 66   3/17/2013 at 07:16 (4,055 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
Well Be That As It May

launderess's profile picture
Then why do laundromats have front loaders with such poor extraction?

I peeped the door labels inside of the SQ's at our local neither the small, large nor giant units spin >600pms, and yet wash emerges almost dripping compared to the Miele at home.


Post# 666453 , Reply# 67   3/17/2013 at 11:05 (4,055 days old) by dj-gabriele ()        
Then why do laundromats have front loaders with such poor ex

It's an overseas problem apparently!
Here all the laundromats I've seen have machines with spin sped of 850-1600 rpm

(circa 350G, depending on drum size!)

What matters the most is gas and electricity use for drying, you buy 15 minutes per €, but with high spin speed they can tweak the temperature to a lower setting and have less energy used for much more profit!

Only old hard mount machines or gigantic sized ones have slow spin speed of 500 or so rpm


Post# 666456 , Reply# 68   3/17/2013 at 11:27 (4,055 days old) by Limey ()        
Spin Speed and Water Extraction

Launderess,

What is the diameter of the drums in the machines at your 'local' and what is the diameter of drum in your Miele at home? The other factor is what are the actual rotational speeds, not what is printed on the labels?
The relationship between the product of speed (rev/min, or rpm) and drum diameter is not direct, i.e. without going into the physics/mechanics of the situation the centrifugal force varies as the square of the angular velocity, meaning that leaving the diameter the same doubling the speed will quadruple the centrifugal force.
For the purists I have assumed that the centrifugal force acts directly opposite to the centripetal force as most folks can understand that.
Now take a drum 20 inches in diameter rotating at 500 rev/min we get a centrifugal force of 20 times 250,000 of whatever units we are working in, now up the speed to 600 rev/min and we get 20 times 360,000 units. That is an increase of 44% in the centrifugal force for 20% increase in speed.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO Limey's LINK


Post# 666467 , Reply# 69   3/17/2013 at 12:38 (4,055 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
Will Peep At Model Number and RPM Next Time

launderess's profile picture
One goes pass our local laundromat. SQ's website has their current hard mount front loaders but know the local's are a bit older.


Post# 666832 , Reply# 70   3/18/2013 at 16:03 (4,053 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
I Have To Share This

LG customer service representative was supposed to place a "defective return" order for my washer on 3/11/13. I was told by the rep. that I would be contacted in 3 to 5 business days. I called today (the 5th business day) to see what was going on with my case. I was told that my washer was out of warranty and there was nothing LG could do. I saw red. I demanded that I have the number to headquarters. All of sudden after being on hold for 5 mins, the rep came back and explained to me that the defective return order was never filed on 3/11/13. He assured me that he would put the order in today and I would be contacted in 3 to 5 business days. I have had enough.

I found the address and telephone number to headquarters. I called and asked who the president of LG Electronics Of North America was and his email. I wrote him a lengthy email detailing all the calls and experiences I have had since this recall work was done. I asked him to take back my set and refund my money. If I do not get any satisfaction from him, I will take further steps to rectify this matter. This is ridiculous.


Post# 666841 , Reply# 71   3/18/2013 at 16:36 (4,053 days old) by dj-gabriele ()        

Excellent, please keep us informed!

Post# 666974 , Reply# 72   3/19/2013 at 06:05 (4,053 days old) by washer111 ()        
!

'Bout bloody time somebody got onto LG and gave them a kick in the backside! (Please excuse my language). Good to see that you are going to pursue this issue to the bitter/sweet end. Its about time customers started nudging the manufacturers, if they are gonna build cheap, they might as well warn you their machines are piles of sheet, or just build 'em better! 

 

Thanks for posting, and please do keep us updated on this matter. It'll be interesting to see if LG cares enough to help you, being "scared" of any lawsuit threats, them doing it to stop you annoying the President of LG or them not do anything, because they aren't frightened of "Just one person" (But who knows if you are a billionaire and can afford big, massive lawsuits? They don't, for sure. Use that to your advantage!).

 

Thanks again, and I wish you the best of luck in regards to this matter!


Post# 668393 , Reply# 73   3/25/2013 at 21:19 (4,046 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
Good News!!!!

After emailing LG's CEO Wayne Park, I received a call from LG offering me an offer to buyback my washer for the price I paid. I accepted. I feel awesome. I sent him an email thanking him for his assistance. The only downfall is I have to sell my dryer because I must have a matching set.

I saw the LG mega-capacity frontload set at Sears for $1250 each with an additional 20% off because I am purchasing four or more appliances. That would mean I would get the set for about $2000. Great deal. I cannot decide between the Speed Queen frontload set and the LG set. LG has a bigger capacity and faster spin speed (1300rpms). However, I cannot get the washer to use a little more water due to my skin sensitivity. The Speed Queen will last forever, but the capacity is smaller and the spinning rpms is only 1000rpms; however, I can get it to use a little more water for better rinsing. Decisions. Decisions.


Post# 668403 , Reply# 74   3/25/2013 at 22:34 (4,046 days old) by logixx (Germany)        

logixx's profile picture
How many extra rinses can the 8000 do? I have played with some of the Kenmores (by LG) and each press of the Extra Rinse button would add another rinse - five rinses in total. The Speed Queen can have its water level adjusted and is durable for sure. Some people have commented that its pulse spins don't remove much of the sudsy water between the rinses, though. Hm...

Post# 668434 , Reply# 75   3/26/2013 at 05:19 (4,046 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

frigilux's profile picture

I steered friends with four kids toward the new mega LG pair (model WM8000 for the washer) and they love it--and the LG dealer loves me for selling a TOL set off the showroom floor for him.  I was concerned about vibration issues, as they're installed just off the kitchen in a first-floor laundry room, but when I was there a few days ago to watch it in action (a maximum-capacity load of various denims) there wasn't a vibration to be felt (no pedestals). They both felt the increased cycle time was offset by the cavernous capacity.  Let me tell you, those machines are huge inside and out.  5.1 cu. ft. drum in the washer; 9.0 in the dryer.

 

They are not, however, "washer-heads", nor do they like doing laundry (hence the laser-focused desire for huge capacity).  Nearly everything will get washed on the Normal cycle in warm water.  I did convince them to use Tide Vivid HE---although I couldn't coax them to use the higher-rated powdered version---instead of whatever is on sale, so they are happy with the cleaning.  I told them about the Turbo-Wash setting, which sprays water on the load and shortens the cycle length, but I'm sure they'll never use it because it would mean pressing another button, LOL.  They did use the Allergy cycle for bed linens, and the Sanitize cycle for a load of whites, so maybe there's hope.  They're thrilled to be able to wash all the comforters and bedspreads at home.  Unlike many, these are folks who will definitely fill the washer to maximum capacity with nearly every load.  We'll see how durable it is under those conditions.  And I stressed the importance of always, always, always leaving both the washer door and detergent drawer open a few inches to prevent mold/mildew.

 

Their prior pair was a 15-year old Whirlpool DD set they received as a wedding gift.  I warned them going into the purchase not to expect the same lifespan from the LGs.  CR reports great reliability for recent LG washers.  Let's hope they're still speaking to me in five years!




This post was last edited 03/26/2013 at 06:39
Post# 668456 , Reply# 76   3/26/2013 at 08:42 (4,046 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
Thanks For The Information

Logixx,

I am concerned about the pulse spin not getting the sudsy water out of my clothes too. I've read that with the increased water levels, the clothes are rinsed very well afterwards. I have skin sensitivity to detergents. I used the Tide Free and Clear, but I don't feel it cleans as well as the regular Tide. That's why rinsing is very important to me.

Frigilux,

My main concern is buying a set and in 5 to 6 years it breaks. I do not want to keep buying new machines. I have purchased at least 10 sets within the last 27 years. Some were returned because I didn't like the performance. I fell in love with my LG topload set. No complaints at all until the recall work was done. Now I just want a set that will wash, rinse, and dry well as well as last for a long time. These machines are getting more and more expensive while being made to be junked in a few years. I think the Speed Queens will be my best bet.


Post# 668468 , Reply# 77   3/26/2013 at 09:12 (4,046 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        
powrbruh

pierreandreply4's profile picture
Have you tough about buying a vintage washer dryer set that can last to 50 years or more like for exemple a belt drive inglis whirlpool washer like this?

Post# 668480 , Reply# 78   3/26/2013 at 09:48 (4,046 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

frigilux's profile picture
powrbruh: Almost identically, I've purchased 9 washers (but only 7 dryers) in the past 26 years! None of mine have been returned, I just get antsy for a new machine every few years. I've never worn one out, so I have no idea what their useable lifespan would have been. I usually pass the used machines onto someone who needs a washer or washer/dryer pair. So, as odd as it sounds, I never make a purchase with the machine's longevity in mind. You're right to purchase the Speed Queen pair if you're in it for the long haul.

I'm surprised the LG doesn't have some sort of "Water Plus" feature---I know their top-loaders, do; although I understand you can only trigger it after the machine has sensed, filled and begins agitation, which would be annoying. It's not something you can set at the beginning of the cycle, as I can with my Frigidaire front-loader.

I've seen the Speed Queens at my local LG/Whirlpool/SQ dealer and they definitely look brawnier than other washers. If SQ's provided more cycle options---like lengthening the wash time for my super-stained loads of kitchen whites---and an internal heater / sanitize feature, I'd consider getting a pair, myself!

I did point out the SQ front-loaders to my friends, and talked about their commercial-build quality, but they saw the capacity of the LG 8000's and that was that, LOL! I have to say I was impressed with how quiet the LG was spinning that huge load of denims, and they really like the fact that the dryer finishes well before the washer. They can fold and put away a load before the next one is ready for the dryer. No more backed-up loads of wet wash waiting for the dryer.


Post# 668490 , Reply# 79   3/26/2013 at 10:33 (4,046 days old) by logixx (Germany)        

logixx's profile picture
I agree with Eugene on the lack of certain features on the SQ FLs. A soil level switch would be nice. An automatic (warm) prewash function, if one's washing items with protein stain so you don't have to start a warm wash, cancel it midway through the cycle and start over again on hot. A heater for hot washes so you don't have to start an empty hot wash, cancel, load items and start another hot wash with the tub preheated. All that is doable but I'm just spoiled by my fully-automatic washer...

Of course, the SQ is sturdier than the LG.

Here are some take-them-with-a-grain-of-salt reviews of the two washers:

www.washerdryerinfo.com/ratings.h...

www.washerdryerinfo.com/products/...


Post# 668549 , Reply# 80   3/26/2013 at 16:48 (4,045 days old) by Huebschman (Quebec, CA)        
To Powrbruh...

Still considering getting an LG!

I decided not to get an LG flatscreen just reading about your ordeal. They might make great TV's... but I just couldn't.

Thanks for sharing your story. Consumers almost always get a fair treatment. Too bad they have to fight the way you did to get there.


Post# 668560 , Reply# 81   3/26/2013 at 17:44 (4,045 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        

Frigilux,

I have done the same as well. I get bored with the same ole set and want something newer and nicer. I am learning that newer and nicer does not mean quality and longetivity. I have spent quite of bit of cash buying appliances. Quite a bit. I just purchased a home. It has a top-of-line, direct-drive Kenmore set. The shredmores as they are called. I had a set myself. Ripped and torn some of my clothes badly. I gave them to my mom and purchased me a topload Speed Queen set. I got bored with them and wanted the new LG topload set. I said it is time for me to stop buying all these machines and get something that will last. The shredmores sound as if the transmission is going. Very loud when spinning.

Pierreandreply4,

I would love to get my hands on a 20lb Capacity Montgomery Wards set with the burpilator agitator. Those were my favorites. I like the Kenmore and Whirlpool belt-drives too.

Logixx,

I am bummed out by the Speed Queen FL not having certain features too. The smaller capacity, the lack of internal heater, and the 1000rpms spin speed. However, I know it will last me for while.

Huebschman,

No I am no longer considering the LG's. I decided if I get a new set, it will be the Speed Queens.


Post# 668652 , Reply# 82   3/27/2013 at 05:58 (4,045 days old) by qualin (Canada)        

Hey Powerbruh,

I own a Huebsch (Aka Speed Queen) front loader and so far I'm quite happy with it.. I don't think that if you bought one, you would regret it. I like a company that stands behind their product. I'm glad to see you got everything worked out with LG.

I initially thought that the smaller capacity of the front loader would be an issue, but in all honesty, it really isn't. It holds more clothing than my old 4.1 cu.ft GE toploader. For example, my GE could handle 7 pairs of 40/32 jeans, my Huebsch can handle 10 pairs. That's at least four weeks of laundry right there. Well, at least for me anyway.

What I find that I can't do is wash a thick double sized comforter in the machine. Well, I can, but it is a very tight fit. The problem isn't so much that the washer can at least get it wet, is that the dryer doesn't have enough capacity to handle it, so I feel that the washer is a well sized fit for the matching dryer.

One of the biggest issues people don't realize, is that a larger capacity drum means more stress on the components of the machine. If the components are good enough for 8 kg (About 16 lbs) of clothing but due to the size of the drum, a person can manage to cram in 16 kg (About 32 lbs) of clothing, all they are doing is making money for the manufacturers when the bearings give out after a few short years of service. It gives me peace of mind to know that even if I do cram the drum full on my Huebsch, whatever I throw at it, it will handle it.

Realistically, for those really large loads (ie. Comforters, Duvets, etc) it isn't that expensive to just wash them in a triple loader at the laundromat and dry it in a large capacity dryer which won't bake it and will dry it quickly.

I have to admit that it would have been nicer if Alliance had put more features into their FL, but realistically, compared to my old TOL GE set, we never really use more than two cycles, "Regular" and "Delicate".. Heck, I don't even bother with the permanent press cycle, although it is nice to have if I need it.

Since most American Front Loaders are not designed for cold fill anyway and most Americans and Canadians have gas or electric water heaters, I can see why Alliance got rid of the heater feature. 120 volts kind of sucks for that anyway.

The 1000 RPM spin speed I find really isn't a problem. The dryer is up to the task of handling it. I replaced my GE electric dryer with the Huebsch gas dryer and right away, my utility bills dropped by an easy 20 percent. If I'm washing items which retain lots of water, I'll just use my spin dryer. Better to wear out a cheap spin dryer than an expensive washer.

When I was shopping for machines, I found that things like Ecobubble and Steam Generators really didn't add much value in my eyes. It made me wonder if it was another thing that would and could break, resulting in an expensive service call. Turns out I was right. (At least for the latter anyway.)

I'm thinking carefully about how Alliance could tweak their FL washer so that it didn't look like a consumer grade BOL machine, but in all honesty, I can't. Even if they thought up another 16 cycles, developed catchy marketing terms for cycles or options (ie. ExpressWash) or put in a UK-Style Medic Wash, I don't honestly see how it would really improve the performance of the machine.

If I was going to improve on perfection, the only thing I would add is a second pressure switch, which would switch in so that a low water level could be used for washing and a high water level could be used for rinsing.

I don't think it would hurt if they sold a model which runs off of 240 volts and does Euro-Style boil washes and 60 C washes.. for those who prefer not to use bleach due to the smell. At least that way, the machine could be designed for a cold-fill environment with a hot water inlet as an option.


Post# 668655 , Reply# 83   3/27/2013 at 06:25 (4,045 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

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I've always thought a washer can get by with one or two complete cycles; they simply have to be versatile.

Case in point: The Normal cycle on my Frigidaire Immersion Care top-loader. The agitation time ranges from 8 to 60 minutes. You have your choice of a water-saving multiple spray rinse or a deep rinse. The final spin can be as brief as 2 minutes or as long as 12. (Unfortunately, the deal-breaker is that the choice of water temperature ranges from tap-cold to lukewarm.)

This is my issue with Speed Queen: No options, no choices. I don't care if it's built to last 50 years, I will be frustrated with the inability to so much as add an extra half hour of wash time without going back to the machine and resetting it manually.

Powrbruh, I understand your desire to buy a dependable machine for the long haul. While I change washers fairly frequently, my only car is a 19-1/2 year old Geo Prizm (a rebadged Toyota Corolla) with 257,000 miles on it which I will continue to drive until the wheels fall off. But I predict your boredom threshold with the SQ will be reached very quickly.


Post# 668690 , Reply# 84   3/27/2013 at 11:51 (4,045 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
LG Contacted Me Again

Qualin and Frigilux,

I thank you both for your input. Another representative from LG contacted me this morning and offered to replace both my washer and dryer with the 8000 frontload set. I had to pay a small fee, but I accepted. The fee is nothing compared to the $2400 I would have had to spend to get the Speed Queens. I just hope I like them the way I liked my toploader set before the recall work was done. After going back and forth with myself, I figured I made the right decision especially after just purchasing my first home. Also, this will be my first time owning a frontloader.


Post# 668701 , Reply# 85   3/27/2013 at 12:19 (4,045 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

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Wow, that was an unexpected turn of events! The 8000's have been getting great reviews, and I hope you like them. Front-loaders have been my "daily drivers" since 1986, so I've forgotten how different it seemed compared to growing up with a top-loader.

I think you're going to have a ball playing with all the cool features on the 8000s! Don't expect to see water in the tub, just saturated clothes. It's odd, but it works. You'll probably want to use the extra rinse option consistently if you have skin sensitivity ssues. And by all means, try the Sanitary cycle for loads of stained whites. You'll be amazed at the results.

The Speed Queens are built like tanks, and I respect Alliance for standing up against the cheap plastic machines of the world (like my Frigidaire front-loader---which I love, by the way), but you've stepped straight into a machine with huge capacity (not that you'll always use it, but it's nice to have when you need it) and an encyclopedic array of features. Congratulations!






This post was last edited 03/27/2013 at 17:24
Post# 668704 , Reply# 86   3/27/2013 at 12:45 (4,045 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
No Water In Tub

Frigilux,

I am hoping I can get use to seeing no water in tub. I've been reading reviews on the 8000's all morning. Mostly good things. I am so old-school when it comes to washing. Lots of suds and lots of water. My LG toploader had a button for Water Plus that I used just about every load. Not in excess however. Just enough to get the clothes swooshing around. In my OCD mind, I believed they were clean.

The frontloaders in the laundromat use enough water too. I see the water splashing and the clothes tumbling. I feel they are being washed thoroughly. Now I will see no water and no suds. I guess I am going to have to get accustomed to this if my clothes are clean. I do visual and my infamous sniffing test when my clothes come out the washer to make sure they are clean to my liking. My partner thinks I am crazy. LOL!


Post# 668706 , Reply# 87   3/27/2013 at 12:59 (4,045 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

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I use much less detergent than I used to. A little goes a long way when there isn't much water in the tub.

Post# 668731 , Reply# 88   3/27/2013 at 15:25 (4,044 days old) by Launderess (Quiet Please, There´s a Lady on Stage)        
Lack Of Cycle Options

launderess's profile picture
For domestic versions of commercial/laundromat washers isn't just limited to SQ. Offerings by Wascomat such as the "Laundrylux" all often have the same limited cycle selections.

Post# 668769 , Reply# 89   3/27/2013 at 19:28 (4,044 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        

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me i grew up with a topload washer and i fine that top load washers wash better than front load washers

Post# 671629 , Reply# 90   4/9/2013 at 15:32 (4,031 days old) by powrbruh (Odenton, MD)        
I'm In Love

My new LG frontload washer and dryer set was delivered yesterday, and I couldn't wait to do a load of clothes. I thought I would not like it because it didn't use enough water. I was very happy with the amount of water it used and it washed my clothes very well. I kept turning on the light for most of the load to see what was going on. Clothes were washed much better than in my LG topload. Tumbling back and forth with constant movement. The rinse cycles used notably more water. I use Tide Free And Clear but I still selected an extra rinse. I thought the cycle was going to be much longer. I anticipated around 1.5 hours. That's usually the time it took my topload to wash an load. With the Turbowash being selected, my load was finished in under 50 minutes. The washer didn't seem like it was spinning at 1300rpms but my clothes were very dry when I took them out. I am trully happy with the washer.

Now for the dryer, the delivery men scratched up my dryer and my stair railings while trying to move it downstairs. I took off the railings to avoid more damage. They couldn't get it through the utility door because they said it wouldn't fit. I told them to just leave it. I was getting pissed. My friend and I turned the dryer around the other way and we were able to get it in the laundry room. The delivery guys damaged the front right side of my dryer. On top of that, the dryer would not operate properly when I first turned it on. I had to unplug and plug it three times before it would work properly. I contacted LG this morning and they agreed to exchange it. After i got it to work, it did dry my clothes fast. I think I am going to love this set for a long time.


Post# 671655 , Reply# 91   4/9/2013 at 17:35 (4,031 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)        

frigilux's profile picture
A very handsome set! Glad you like them, and do keep us posted as you put the washer through its paces. Hope the pair prove themselves a reliable purchase.

Sorry to hear about the damage to your dryer and stair railings. Maybe the delivery guys will be a little more careful with the replacement dryer.


Post# 671656 , Reply# 92   4/9/2013 at 17:38 (4,031 days old) by whirlykenmore78 (Prior Lake MN (GMT-0500 CDT.))        

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