Thread Number: 48552
SQ FL or TL |
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Post# 703484 , Reply# 1   9/15/2013 at 22:30 (3,875 days old) by whirlcool (Just North Of Houston, Texas)   |   | |
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There are some people here who own SQ top loaders and others who own SQ front loaders. They should comment pretty soon. |
Post# 703509 , Reply# 2   9/16/2013 at 04:11 (3,874 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Here's why I think the Maytag is a good choice: It has an internal water heater so you can have truly hot water when you want it (via Allergen, Sanitize, and Steam cycles). It is currently the top-rated machine in Consumer Reports' tests. Reliability has been good. You'll have far more cycle flexibility with the Maytag. It also has a much larger drum, so you'll be able to wash large comforters, etc.
Is the Maytag built like a Speed Queen? No. But there are many factors to consider besides a machine being built like a tank. Both brands are built in the USA.
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Post# 703511 , Reply# 3   9/16/2013 at 05:00 (3,874 days old) by Washman (o)   |   | |
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you'll find many vids of these fine machines in operation CLICK HERE TO GO TO Washman's LINK |
Post# 703523 , Reply# 4   9/16/2013 at 07:18 (3,874 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)   |   | |
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As Eugene suggests the MT-WP might be a great choice, it depends on many different factors, how much you use the machine, how long do you want it to last, whether you would like more bells and whistles or just a rugged work horse.
The SQ FL washer is diffidently the most durable choice if you want this to be the last washer you buy for 30+ years. The SQ TL will probably last 15-30 but will be unrepairable when something happens to the transmission or main bearings and cost you another $1,500+ in utility costs or more over the next 15 years, so the SQ TLer will be the most expensive washer to buy over a reasonable life span. And the WP-MT FL washer could last anywhere from 10-20+ years unless something happens to the electronics or the main bearings in which case you buy another washer. |
Post# 703541 , Reply# 6   9/16/2013 at 10:59 (3,874 days old) by countryguy (Astorville, ON, Canada)   |   | |
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I wonder why Speed Queen is not authorized to sell in Canada? When I used the dealer locator it told me to check out home.huebsch.com/...
The machines look to be identical - just with the different brand name. Gary |
Post# 703564 , Reply# 8   9/16/2013 at 13:46 (3,874 days old) by Iheartmaytag (Wichita, Kansas)   |   | |
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When I bought my Maytag 5000 Series four years ago, I too considered SQ. I was attracted to the pretty lights on the Maytag.
My informed decision was that Maytag/Whirlpool has a heater (Steam). It was slightly larger, and was about 1/2 the price. The SQ I was originally informed (incorrectly) that it did not adjust water levels to loads. I would say chose the one you are most comfortable with. I would go FL myself, but again that would be your preference. SQ used to have, as was noted, a very poor rating for water extraction, sand disposal, and even washing performance. This was many years ago, and now Speed Queen's longevity has placed them at the top of the list for top loaders. |
Post# 703609 , Reply# 10   9/16/2013 at 19:53 (3,874 days old) by eddy1210 (Burnaby BC Canada)   |   | |
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The story I heard was that after the demise of the solid tub Queens, Whirlpool Canada bought the Speed Queen name here. I remember seeing a few DD Whirlpool washers with the Speed Queen name on them (much to my horror). Whirlpool won't allow the name to be used thus SQ needed to market their machines under a different name in Canada.
If anyone can add more information or correct this, please do. |
Post# 704855 , Reply# 11   9/23/2013 at 10:39 (3,867 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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I still am going back and forth over the maytag 7000 and SQ TL or FL. Anymore advise on choosing the SQ? Thanks |
Post# 704869 , Reply# 12   9/23/2013 at 12:03 (3,867 days old) by washman (o)   |   | |
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If warranty reflects confidence in a product, then the big makers must not have much. |
Post# 704874 , Reply# 13   9/23/2013 at 12:54 (3,867 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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Anyone have a SQ FL that can comment on it vs the fancy electronics of Maytag and others? |
Post# 704886 , Reply# 14   9/23/2013 at 14:06 (3,867 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)   |   | |
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This is all opinion but that is what you are seeking right?
I'd rather have a mechanically solid basic machine compared to a machine that is less robust with lots of gimmick features you won't use. In the end the cost will likely be the same, perhaps more for the Maytag if you buy the extended warranty. As for the FL vs the TL, I'd only consider the frontloader. Its a mechanically simpler machine that has a higher capacity then the TL machine. You will need to learn how to use a FL machine as they are different but you will get great results if you are willing to adapt. You will save water and energy and create less wear and tear on your clothing to boot. |
Post# 704890 , Reply# 15   9/23/2013 at 14:18 (3,867 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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Thanks for your reply. So SQ is better even through it does not have any of the newer features of Maytag like sanitize, Fresh Hold for 12 hours, steam, water heat? I am looking at about a $200.00 US increase for extended warranty. |
Post# 704902 , Reply# 16   9/23/2013 at 14:43 (3,867 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)   |   | |
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With the exception of the boost heater I'd call all the Maytag "features" you listed gimmicks. I do wish the SQ had a heater, but I think the majority of people will get by without a heater just fine.
As for the extended warranty I'd NEVER buy one on anything I ever buy. If the item was so unreliable that I "need" the added warranty I won't buy the product period! If you were likely to get your money's worth out of the warranty, then the company selling it couldn't stay in business, its either a good deal for you or them, not both. Aside from peace-of-mind extended warranties are like the lottery, an added tax for people who are bad at math. |
Post# 704923 , Reply# 18   9/23/2013 at 16:12 (3,867 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)   |   | |
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Post# 704957 , Reply# 19   9/23/2013 at 18:09 (3,867 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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Thanks Malcolm, Guess that is why they are so expensive. |
Post# 705075 , Reply# 20   9/24/2013 at 07:53 (3,866 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)   |   | |
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I to would get the SQ FL machine, in the long run it will not only last longer but will be easier to repair if you want to really see if it will last 25,000 loads as SQs engineers say it can [ that works out 48 years at 10 loads per week ].
I have said many times that I would never buy a service contract and any appliance and even if they were FREE all they really guarantee you is crappy inferior service. About the only good thing about a SC is after they waste enough of your time and energy trying to actually get something fixed under contract, they will [ sometimes replace the appliance ] usually after a lot of fighting. A decent servicer would have just fixed the problem properly on the first call and you could have saved making several appointments and the cost of taking the time from work or other things would have rather been doing.
My brother Jeff and I got our SQ FL washers about eight years ago and love them, recently two other brothers got SQ FL washers, so 4 out of five of us now have SQ FL washers, I guess I will have to work on my older brother, LOL. |
Post# 705081 , Reply# 21   9/24/2013 at 08:18 (3,866 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)   |   | |
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Post# 705088 , Reply# 22   9/24/2013 at 09:25 (3,866 days old) by Kenmoreguy89 (Valenza Piemonte, Italy- Soon to be US immigrant.)   |   | |
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Post# 705090 , Reply# 23   9/24/2013 at 09:35 (3,866 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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I thought it was the reverse, that FL washed better? I have made up my mind on the SQ, just trying to decide on the TL or FL model. TL would be the 542. |
Post# 705095 , Reply# 24   9/24/2013 at 10:22 (3,866 days old) by Kenmoreguy89 (Valenza Piemonte, Italy- Soon to be US immigrant.)   |   | |
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It depends from person to person...you may find lots of people that switch as soon as they can from a front loader because they says it does not wash as good as a toploader., the same way you may find people that are satisfied with them. I say, and again, this want to be shared now as a my opinion, generally, and that's because of their tumbling washing action, I don't think that front loader washing will ever be as good as a wash of a top loader agitator, and that's what I could personally find out and experience...then as I was saying it depend from type to type.... This post was last edited 09/24/2013 at 14:41 |
Post# 705129 , Reply# 27   9/24/2013 at 14:20 (3,866 days old) by Kenmoreguy89 (Valenza Piemonte, Italy- Soon to be US immigrant.)   |   | |
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Post# 705139 , Reply# 28   9/24/2013 at 15:49 (3,866 days old) by norgeway (mocksville n c )   |   | |
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To the point that I can not keep a Whirlpool/Kenmore belt drive, I would get the SQ, but im not concerned about water usage etc, im concerned about clean clothes! |
Post# 705151 , Reply# 29   9/24/2013 at 16:51 (3,866 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)   |   | |
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First off I'd suggest you move along past the top loading HE machines, I think they are likely a poor choice especially if you are washing a full load.
Secondly remember you don't need to have a matched pair, unless its something that you (or your wife/significant other) desires. There are many new or vintage dryers out there that cost a lot less then the matching unit and are every bit as good or better. As you found the SQ top load pair is the least expensive at the initial purchase. If you factor in the cost of water and energy coupled with the added mechanical complexity leading to higher repair costs, you may find that in 10 years the TL will cost well more then the FL. There have been many religious-like arguments of the FL vs TL over the years. Both have proponents and opponents. I am likely to agree that a conventional TL machine may provide more vigorous washing action then a FL machine. But a downside of that action is that they do tend to be harder on clothing, that could change cost calculations too. Personally I think many (not all) of the the people that say they hate front loaders just never really learned how to use them correctly. You did state that you are concerned with water usage, and I personally applaud you for that. I try to make my decisions based on whatever allows me to use the least resources I can whenever possible. I don't want inadequate cleaning or rinsing anymore then anyone else does, but I do want to do the best I can with the least waste. In the current laundry world the front loaders are unmatched in that regard. |
Post# 705177 , Reply# 31   9/24/2013 at 19:21 (3,866 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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If I were you, I'd opt for the Maytag, with its larger capacity, cycle flexibility, and internal water heater. Others will say go for the Speed Queen because of the heavy-duty build quality.
Will you install the machine on a concrete basement floor or on a wooden floor? The Maytag gets better scores for freedom from vibration on wooden floors than the Speed Queen (according to Consumer Reports). Unfortunately, we can't make up your mind for you. You have to do what's best for your particular situation. Let us know which one choose! |
Post# 705178 , Reply# 32   9/24/2013 at 19:22 (3,866 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)   |   | |
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Post# 705195 , Reply# 34   9/24/2013 at 21:44 (3,866 days old) by Washman (o)   |   | |
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the agitation is normal cycle. |
Post# 705200 , Reply# 35   9/24/2013 at 21:59 (3,866 days old) by Iheartmaytag (Wichita, Kansas)   |   | |
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Post# 705290 , Reply# 36   9/25/2013 at 14:00 (3,865 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))   |   | |
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To the point with matching pairs: I totally agree. Like I would never buy a dryer with a rear to rear air stream. In my opinion, that is ineffective. Next, reversing drum motion is a good point either and at leats I would go with the Washer-volume*2 rule to get wrinkle free clothing. Things a dryer should have IMHO... |
Post# 705296 , Reply# 37   9/25/2013 at 14:22 (3,865 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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henene4, Are you saying the SQ TL & Dryer? |
Post# 705298 , Reply# 38   9/25/2013 at 14:33 (3,865 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))   |   | |
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At all dryers... How can you think about a washer??? I wrote the word dryer up there... |
Post# 705300 , Reply# 39   9/25/2013 at 14:37 (3,865 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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Sorry missed that, I am thinking about the pair that I need to purchase. |
Post# 705353 , Reply# 42   9/25/2013 at 18:35 (3,865 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Water needs to be heated because new machines often limit incoming water temperature to 100 degrees, no matter how hot your water heater is set. When you press "Hot" on a vintage machine, you get water the temperature of your tap; that's not the case with machines made after 2010.
This is one of the things that frustrates me about my 2012 Frigidaire top-loader. The water is never much over 100 degrees, which is lukewarm in my book.
I would suspect a repairman would see more Maytags, Whirlpools, etc., because they make up a large proportion of washer sales. Speed Queen sells only a very small fraction of the number sold by major brands due to limited availability. I would suspect if SQ sold as many washers as Whirlpool, you'd see more of them on repair calls.
Please understand I'm not knocking Speed Queen. I'm just trying to provide some balance in the conversation about washers. This post was last edited 09/25/2013 at 22:31 |
Post# 705354 , Reply# 43   9/25/2013 at 18:38 (3,865 days old) by logixx (Germany)   |   | |
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Between the two, I'd go for the Maytag as I like to set a cyle that does just what I want it to. Besides, I tend to use all the options on my appliances and there's not much to choose from on the SQ. If, however, you're like most people and like to have a simple and sturdy washer and dryer - and you don't have to wash delicate or stained items on a regular basis - the SQ is it. |
Post# 705358 , Reply# 44   9/25/2013 at 18:53 (3,865 days old) by Washman (o)   |   | |
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when I select hot, the water is as hot as it comes from the water heater. Warm on the other hand, is lukewarm at best. My 1999 GE profile was the same way. |
Post# 705369 , Reply# 45   9/25/2013 at 19:45 (3,865 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)   |   | |
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The gimmicky cleaning and sanitizing cycles on front loaders are simply a marketing ploy. They are to help calm the fears that a front loader will will get all stinky and funky (and perhaps help keep the stupid class action suit at bay for the manufacturer).
Its a pity that our society has devolved to the point where the customer isn't at fault for improper use of an appliance. And now we have gimmicks to play into that hand. A front load washer is a slightly different animal then what most American users are used to, one does have to adapt slightly to reap the benefits they hold. |
Post# 705379 , Reply# 47   9/25/2013 at 20:37 (3,865 days old) by pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)   |   | |
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sure a modern frontload or top load is nice but there is one thing you need to consider in your toughs and that is with the new energy star rating will you fine yourself with dumbdown water temp like for exemple hot is warm warm is cool and cold is cold water from the tap? Maybe you should also consider looking for a vintage machine 1999 to 1970 or earlier for true water temp like for exemple this speedqueen set from 1972 or other brands
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Post# 705401 , Reply# 49   9/25/2013 at 22:12 (3,865 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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I disagree that sanitize cycles and allergy cycles are gimmicks. A sanitize cycle provides an excellent
"profile" wash, in which water is gradually heated to attack different stains at the optimum temperature to remove them. 150-degree water is great for stripping body oils from bed linens, for instance. It's not a matter of being paranoid about germs. An allergy cycle heats water to 131 degrees. I can tell you this much: If I put a full load of wildly-stained kitchen whites in a Speed Queen front-loader (or top-loader for that matter) on its longest cycle, that load will not emerge completely stain-free. Every stain is always removed when I use the Sanitize cycle. Every time. Always. The Speed Queen front-loader gets unimpressive scores for cleaning, while the Maytag 7000 gets an excellent rating with a 50-minute cycle (Consumer Reports). The Maytag's capacity beats Speed Queen. It has a water heater to combat tepid water. And it resists vibration on wooden floors better than the Speed Queen. Electronic Controls: Front-loading Speed Queens have electronic controls, don't they? The cycle dial looks like a cycle selector, not a mechanical timer that advances minute-by-minute like an analog timer. We ooh-and-ahh over pre-wash or, in the case of Whirlpool, Super Wash options on vintage machines, but transfer that option to a modern front-loader and it's suddenly a worthless gimmick. We need to get past the notion that every machine save for the Speed Queen is an unreliable, gimmicky piece of crap. I had a 2002 Frigidaire front-loading plastic piece of crap that washed 7-9 loads per week for over 8 years with not one single repair issue. It cost around $600. Not $1600, like a Speed Queen. This post was last edited 09/25/2013 at 22:55 |
Post# 705438 , Reply# 50   9/26/2013 at 05:28 (3,864 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Speed Queen cycles: You get a one-size-fits-all Normal/Heavy Duty cycle. No options to increase or decrease wash time to match load-soil conditions. That's ridiculous for a home laundry appliance that lists for $1600. That inflexibility is a major drawback in my book.
With my cheap, plastic piece-of-crap 2010 Frigidaire, I can choose from 4 to 74 minutes of wash time, depending on the cycle and/or soil level selected. Any load from lightly soiled to uber-stained gets customized treatment. Need a prewash? No problem: One can be added to the cycle. Want to start a load in cold water and have it gradually heated to 110 degrees to help remove stains on loads that can't withstand the high temp of a Sanitize cycle? No problem: Add the Stain Treat option to a cycle. And all this can be done without coming back to the machine to reset controls.
That is what a modern home washer should be able to do.
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Post# 705441 , Reply# 51   9/26/2013 at 05:53 (3,864 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Washman: My machine prompts me to "clean washer" every 50 cycles. Following the analogy you presented above: Don't you clean your bathtub/shower stall at least once every 50 showers?
I completely disagree that any machine offering cycle flexibility or the option for heated water automatically makes it a tool of corporate and/or media propaganda. I don't lay blame with CNN or Fox News if a manufacturer wants to offer more than a Start button on their washers. This post was last edited 09/26/2013 at 06:51 |
Post# 705456 , Reply# 53   9/26/2013 at 08:54 (3,864 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)   |   | |
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Been involved with toploaders since my born day. Whirlpool & Kenmore belt-drive units, then Whirlpool & KitchenAid & Kenmore direct-drive. Had occasion along the way to use a 1960s Kelvinator briefly, an aunt's 1969 Speed Queen, a 1970s GE FilterFlo. 1999 brought a Fisher & Paykel non-eco unit, then 2004 segued into another F&P just 'cause I wanted to update to the latest newfangled super-smart one-button model. Mid-2008 offered opportunity to obtain a NIB Maytag Neptune TL at a give-away price so I took it for the novelty. It's a mixed-bag ... does quite well on some kinds of loads, rather much poorly on others. Late-2008 the Neppy TL crapped-out with a bad clutch (fixed under warranty). Switched to a 2001 Whirly Calypso, which is the best toploader I've used to date (hear that? screams of outrage from the gallery). Had opportunity to use a 2005 Whirlpool Duet HT (with water heating) for several months from end of 2012 into 2013. Still using the Calypso as the daily driver. The F&P occasionally, the Neppy TL less occasionally. If I had to buy a new washer today, it'd be a frontloader of some brand/model of the Whirlpool family, with water heating. |
Post# 705459 , Reply# 54   9/26/2013 at 09:43 (3,864 days old) by Pulsator (Saint Joseph, MI)   |   | |
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Post# 705463 , Reply# 55   9/26/2013 at 10:46 (3,864 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Agreed: I thought the Calypso's bouncing plate agitation was more effective than an impeller. But for whatever reason, those went the way of the dinosaur. Too bad they didn't find solutions for whatever the problem was. The big waterfall water recirculation dousing the bouncing clothes seemed pretty efficient.
Washman: There are certainly a lot of specialty cycles I find silly and have no use for---and front-loaders seem especially prone to having these. Here are some on my washer: Stuffed Animals (really?); Pet Beds (which is just a normal cycle with an extra rinse); Active Wear (my gym clothes can't be washed with everything else?); Jeans (a slow spin for jeans? no thanks) These are my go-to cycles: Heavy Duty (can add Allergy option); Normal; Delicate; Sanitize; Casual (perm press). I use water heat options quite often, so I don't file them in the gimmick category. I also use the Steam option regularly. My washer doesn't actually produce steam; it provides an 18-minute first rinse in 125 degree water, then a warm final rinse. Items emerge very warm after final spin, just like the good old days. I love that option for sheets and bath towels. This post was last edited 09/26/2013 at 12:22 |
Post# 705467 , Reply# 56   9/26/2013 at 11:00 (3,864 days old) by kb0nes (Burnsville, MN)   |   | |
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Eugene, indeed there are a lot of other machines out there and they aren't without their merits. The Speed Queen products are heavily built and kinda crude overall as their commercial heritage might predict. In today's market (not 10years ago) the SQ products at least hold the appearance of having a significant durability edge. They also generally have better factory warranty coverage and potential for parts availability after 10 years. Any quality machine today may well give a nice long service life, the problem is we won't know for 10 years or so.
I have never been one to eschew electronic controls, if fact I hope to never again buy a new appliance that is hindered by old mechanical controls. There is so much versatility to be gained as well as the potential for greater reliability from electronic control (if built well). The ease and low cost of adding cycles and features is both a benefit and a detriment. Being able to custom define the cycles is great, but I disagree with adding features for the sake of marketing. In the old HiFi world I used to rate components by BWPD, Bells & Whistles per Dollar. With enough added glitz and flashing lights, an otherwise unremarkable product becomes a world beater in the eyes of uninformed buyers. I would really like the Speed Queen to have a heater. But I suspect I will get by fine without one. And I can do so with a machine I suspect will last longer then most other products made today. |
Post# 705469 , Reply# 57   9/26/2013 at 11:18 (3,864 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Phil, if Speed Queen's front-loader had more options for its three cycles---and a water heater---there would be one in my laundry room by the end of the day. If I preferred top-loaders, there would have been an AFN52F (like Washman's) in my laundry room four years ago.
It's not that I want their front-loader to have more cycles; just more flexibility within the ones it has. And given their electronic controls, there's no reason that can't easily be done without adding to the cost of the machine. After all, as you mentioned, that's the advantage of electronic controls. Given some flexibility, Speed Queen's Normal/Heavy Duty, Perm Press, and Delicate cycles are really all one needs. Maybe an automatic pre-wash would be nice, as well. I applaud Speed Queen's build quality and am the first to acknowledge theirs are the most solidly-built washers in the US. I give them credit for their warranty, as well. This doesn't mean, however, that machines from every other brand disintegrate after two years. This post was last edited 09/26/2013 at 13:17 |
Post# 705481 , Reply# 58   9/26/2013 at 13:25 (3,864 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))   |   | |
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Well, what I thought about would be a more uncommon way to get real hot water, but why don't you just get one of these hot-water-by-flowing-through-things, connect it between cold tap and inlet and if you need a extra hot wash, just turn it to the desired temp or just to get warm rinses? |
Post# 705486 , Reply# 59   9/26/2013 at 13:58 (3,864 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)   |   | |
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Post# 705559 , Reply# 61   9/27/2013 at 00:36 (3,863 days old) by LLMaytag (Southern California)   |   | |
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Hey guys, I'm deciding between the AWN 432 or 542. I currently have a 432 where I'm living now, but will soon be moving and will leave the 432 here so I'll have to get a new one for the new place.
Both have the second rinse which is very important to me. On the 432 the wash/spin speeds are determined by the dial setting. For a delicate wash the only choice I have is intermittent gentle agitation with a slow spin. I do some loads for which I like the gentle agitation, though I'd rather it not be intermittent and I'd rather have a the normal spin speed. Because of this, I'm considering the 542. The 542 has a separate dial for fabric selection...Regular (normal/normal), perm press (normal/slow), knit (gentle/normal), and delicate (gentle/slow). I determined this form the Care and Use guide I downloaded, but I couldn't figure out how the timer plays into it. That is, the timer has cycles for regular, perm press, delicate and hand wash. Does anyone have any idea? |
Post# 705595 , Reply# 62   9/27/2013 at 05:28 (3,863 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Post# 705623 , Reply# 63   9/27/2013 at 08:03 (3,863 days old) by washman (o)   |   | |
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And my laundry is clean as a whistle. CLICK HERE TO GO TO washman's LINK |
Post# 706913 , Reply# 64   10/2/2013 at 23:10 (3,858 days old) by AutoWasherFreak ()   |   | |
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If money was no object, I would love to have a SQ top loader and front loader, with the double dryer. |
Post# 706946 , Reply# 66   10/3/2013 at 05:46 (3,857 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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I think I am going with the Speed Queen 542 washer & matching Dryer. I wanted a Front Loader, but cannot see spending 800 to a 1000 dollars more for the SQ. This forum has helped so much. |
Post# 706954 , Reply# 67   10/3/2013 at 06:44 (3,857 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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You're certainly welcome, frocco! As you witnessed, we aren't shy when it comes to sharing opinions, here.
It's funny that both of us wound up ordering an AWN542 Speed Queen. Two weeks ago I had no idea I would be purchasing a new "2nd machine" for the laundry room. All the talk about Speed Queens enticed me to empty my bank account. The AWN542 won't take the place of my front-loader, which has a number of advantages I consider important, but it will be great to own the last of the truly traditional top-loaders, with a fun-to-watch spin-drain, no less! Be sure to check back here and give us your opinion of the Speed Queen. It will be fun to compare notes. Mine arrives late next week. The Frigidaire Immersion Care top-loader has already been moved to its new home only a few blocks away, so there's an open space ready and waiting for the SQ to move in. This post was last edited 10/03/2013 at 10:50 |
Post# 707160 , Reply# 68   10/4/2013 at 07:00 (3,856 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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Hi Frigilux, >>The AWN542 won't take the place of my front-loader<< Let me know if you still feel that way after using your 542. Thanks Frank |
Post# 707165 , Reply# 69   10/4/2013 at 07:32 (3,856 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)   |   | |
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After you see what a front loader can do with a few gallons of water, especially in the winter when very cold water has to be heated, you begin to think twice about filling the tub full of water to wash the same amount of laundry. |
Post# 707169 , Reply# 70   10/4/2013 at 07:55 (3,856 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)   |   | |
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I would dough that anyone with both would use the TL as their main machine, a good FL washer just works so much better, I have had FL and Traditional TL machines for many years and the FLers get most of the use.
The basic design of a traditional TL washer as used in the US was conceived with the idea that the wash water would be used for at least 2 or 3 loads of clothing [ TL AWWs came from wringer washers and NOBODY that used WWs ever threw the water out after one batch of clothing was washed ]. To get decent cleaning out of a TL washer you have to use enormous amounts of detergent, water and heat all this water, just to begin to get the performance of a good FL washer.
I always drain the wash water from two loads in the FLers or my WP Calypso into a traditional TLer to start a load, otherwise the TLer never gets used.
And a TL washer while they can wash most items of clothing very well have a terrible time washing balky items like , coats, heavy bedding, jeans, these items just do not get washed uniformly in a TL washer without using huge amounts of washer and possible clothing damage.
If I could have only one machine I would get a machine that would excel at all laundry tasks, and the WP-MT FL washers are very good choices, with reasonable care you should get between 10-20 years use out of them. The SQ FL washer should easily last 2 to 3 times as long as the regular high volume brands,. but then again many of us might get bored with a washer after 30+ years LOL.
If you buy the MT or WP FLers and feel the need to buy a service contract, YOU are buying the wrong machine, by skipping the silly contract you will not only save money but possibly a lot of time and aggravation, John. |
Post# 707255 , Reply# 73   10/4/2013 at 16:46 (3,856 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)   |   | |
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Post# 707262 , Reply# 75   10/4/2013 at 18:56 (3,856 days old) by Tomturbomatic (Beltsville, MD)   |   | |
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The nice thing about the SQ FL is that it has a NORMAL cycle that takes about 45 minutes and a final spin that really removes as much water as the Miele W1986. |
Post# 707268 , Reply# 76   10/4/2013 at 19:17 (3,856 days old) by DigAPony ()   |   | |
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Thats one heck of a commute from PA... |
Post# 707315 , Reply# 77   10/4/2013 at 23:42 (3,855 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)   |   | |
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Post# 707344 , Reply# 78   10/5/2013 at 07:59 (3,855 days old) by mrb627 (Buford, GA)   |   | |
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Post# 707346 , Reply# 79   10/5/2013 at 08:13 (3,855 days old) by washman (o)   |   | |
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Malcolm, it sure is tempting! |
Post# 707350 , Reply# 80   10/5/2013 at 08:56 (3,855 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)   |   | |
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Speed Of A FL Washer vs A TL machine.
My SQ FLer is the older small door model built in 2005 and it does the maximum cycle in just 30 minutes unless I select boosted hot wash which adds 15-30 minutes to the initial wash time depending on load size. So actually my FL washer is the fastest AW washer I have and the one I use if I an in a hurry, My LKM Gas combo and my GE combo [ both 1966 ] also complete the complete WRS cycle in just 30 minutes.
Cycle time does not have much to do with a machine loads from the front or top, and the new FL machines that do take up to two hours to complete a full cycle do a much better overall job than a traditional TL washer could ever dream of doing, let alone the fact that you save a lot of time drying the load afterwords.
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Post# 708478 , Reply# 82   10/10/2013 at 19:58 (3,850 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Frank-- Be sure to raise the water level. It's very simple. Here's the demonstration video I watched. My dealer made the adjustment for me, as doing it yourself technically voids the warranty. Be sure to unplug the washer when you open the console. My dealer didn't do that, even though he said, "Better be careful not to electrocute myself." Don't know if you want to defeat the lid switch so you can watch it work, but that's simple to do, as well. I did that one myself, as the dealer refused to; understandably so.
Meant to ask earlier and forgot: What was the brand and format (TL or FL) of your previous washer? I like the AWN542, though I've only washed 5 loads so far. I still prefer my front-loader for a lengthy list of reasons, but if you're going to have a top-loader, the SQ is the way to go! |
Post# 708484 , Reply# 83   10/10/2013 at 20:29 (3,850 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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Frigilux Thanks for the info. Wish I could afford to have both. My last washer was an Amana TL |
Post# 708490 , Reply# 84   10/10/2013 at 20:50 (3,850 days old) by Washman (o)   |   | |
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Be sure to keep us posted. CLICK HERE TO GO TO Washman's LINK |
Post# 708545 , Reply# 85   10/11/2013 at 05:41 (3,849 days old) by frocco (Sauquoit,NY)   |   | |
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Thanks Washman Hope I won't be disappointed. |
Post# 708722 , Reply# 87   10/12/2013 at 00:46 (3,848 days old) by neptunebob (Pittsburgh, PA)   |   | |
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Is to say that it is the last washer one may ever buy. Try to appeal to those customers and SQ may well sell a lot of front loaders. If I had a family I might well want one of those even with the high price, knowing it might outlast at least 2 duets.
Oh, wait just read above and Combo, you do recommend the FL. My question is, why doesn't Consumer Reports like it? If it is a matter of not cleaning heavily soiled clothes, it the FL still a good choice if maybe you work in a office and your clothes are not as dirty? |
Post# 710618 , Reply# 89   10/21/2013 at 14:57 (3,839 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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I purchased a Speed Queen AWN542 top-loading washer a couple of weeks ago and like it a lot. If you are looking for the classic top-load experience, you made the right choice.
Just make sure to tell the installers you want the water level raised to the top row of holes in the tub. SQ lowered the water level to meet water-use mandates, but customer service has given dealers permission to raise the water level back to the top of the tub if the customers requests it. |
Post# 710731 , Reply# 92   10/22/2013 at 06:02 (3,838 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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I am a proponent of modern front-loaders. A Frigidaire 4174 is my daily driver. Purchased the Speed Queen because it's the last of the truly classic top-loaders, and I wanted one for posterity. And the spin-drain is fun to watch. The Frigidaire out-performs the SQ in several areas.
Some people just don't want a front-loader. A Speed Queen is probably the machine they're looking for. |
Post# 711130 , Reply# 93   10/24/2013 at 00:36 (3,836 days old) by Spinmon (st. charles mo )   |   | |
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I like the 30 minute normal wash cycle of our AWN 542,the spin drain,water fills tub quickly,and my favorite;normal wash speed makes great 'slosh' sounds along with a slight 'woo-woo',depending on proximities to the machine. :) |
Post# 711195 , Reply# 94   10/24/2013 at 12:11 (3,836 days old) by washman (o)   |   | |
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experience with spin drain. I find it fascinating and I marvel at how the stout 1/2 HP motor brings the works up to speed, water and all. CLICK HERE TO GO TO washman's LINK |
Post# 711255 , Reply# 96   10/24/2013 at 20:29 (3,836 days old) by Washman (o)   |   | |
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I hope you find these machines as inspiring as I do for their simplicity, quality, and ease of use. CLICK HERE TO GO TO Washman's LINK |
Post# 711308 , Reply# 97   10/25/2013 at 04:40 (3,835 days old) by Frigilux (The Minnesota Prairie)   |   | |
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Rob-- My AWN542 fills with warm water in about 3-3/4 minutes; cold in about 4-1/2; hot in about 5 minutes. Mine may take a bit longer as the water level has been adjusted to the top row of holes, in essence filling the tub full.
It is a very time-efficient machine. It took my 2013 Frigidaire Immersion Care (impeller-based) top-loader 25 minutes to complete a Rinse & Spin cycle. It's about 12 minutes in the Speed Queen. To be fair, the Frigidaire had a final spin time of 11 minutes, which extracted more water. The very short final spin time of the SQ is probably my only grumble about the machine. Loads emerge with a lot of excess moisture. I timed the dry cycle of two identical loads of bath linens, one spun in my Frigidaire front-loader (1300 rpm) and one in the SQ. The load from the front-loader spent 54 minutes in the dryer; the load from the SQ spent 92 minutes in the dryer. That's a huge difference. |