Thread Number: 74389  /  Tag: Modern Automatic Washers
Is there a consensus? SAHM needs a washer!
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Post# 981896   2/8/2018 at 11:10 (2,240 days old) by jfel (San Diego)        

Hi All,

I found you guys in doing a little bit of homework for our next washer purchase. Our HE TL Maytag Bravos that we bought new, not even 3 years ago, did not make it through my family's recent back-to-back rounds of stomach flu. The transmission is toast. The repair man enlightened me a little about how all these more modern brands use cheapo plastic parts that can't easily be bought individually and are very time consuming to repair... read expensive, making these machines "disposables" as he called it. I think we paid close to $700 for that washer.

He taught me about Speed Queen. But now I might be more confused than ever. He said Top Loaders are best for cheaper repairs. I know just enough about SQ to avoid 2018 models...but I keep coming across the shredded laundry issue with some older ones. Is there a consensus on what models to look out for?

For all you SQ owners, are they worth the price? Have you found you're actually getting your money's worth?

I'm a stay-at-home-mom of two young children. We do lots of laundry as well as cloth diaper. We don't need the best and would happily get the cheapest if it will do the job and makes sense ( saw Lorian's recent Youtube Video on Amana). But if the Speed Queen actually does have longevity than financially it makes sense...right?

This is the model we are considering from the distributor near us. He's quoting $831
www.pwslaundrywest.com/i-...

I also came across some retired models on DesignerAppliances.com
www.designerappliances.co...

All thoughts and advice welcome!

P.S. I should mention that we are in California. Are there any front-loaders you all recommend?







Post# 981907 , Reply# 1   2/8/2018 at 12:22 (2,240 days old) by CorvairGeek (Gem State)        

Very happy with the performance of our 432 model so far, purchased in Dec.17. We do a LOT of laundry. I'd grab that commercial 432 from PWS in a heart beat.

Post# 981910 , Reply# 2   2/8/2018 at 12:39 (2,240 days old) by RevvinKevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        

revvinkevin's profile picture

 

 

Personally I'd say go with a front load: LG, Kenmore (the models made by LG), Whirlpool and Maytag (made by Whirlpool).  I am bias however as I've been using front load washers for my laundry the last 20 years. 

 

I would avoid Samsung, too many failures of one type or another in just a few years.   I would also bypass GE, but I have nothing to back that up, it's only my personal preference. 

 

If you do get a front loader (or top load for that matter), I'd suggest washing (the majority) only in warm or hot water and use a good H.E. detergent.  Also, leave the door and dispenser drawer ajar when not in use.  So many people have been brainwashed into thinking they MUST always wash in cold to save energy and the planet.  The problem is that body oils, BO and other soils don't play well (come out easily) in cold water.  The other problem, especially if you use liquid fabric softener, is residue from the softener, along with dirt and other soil, builds up over time in the outer drum of the washer and often causes an  unpleasant odor.

 

Since you have young kids, a built-in heater and steam (only available in front load) may be good features to have, but they're also tend to be in the higher priced models.

 

Speed Queen can be good too, but only a 2017 or older model. 

 

Best of luck!

Kevin

 


Post# 981911 , Reply# 3   2/8/2018 at 12:48 (2,240 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
why not select a used set....like one of these direct drive units.....time tested and hold up well, still old school setup....

the most repair ever needed are a coupler or a pump...which can be installed by you in a matter of minutes, and your back in action....parts are still abundantly available....

and you will still get plenty of use out of these for the price....

just a thought.....


CLICK HERE TO GO TO Yogitunes's LINK on San Diego Craigslist


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Post# 981913 , Reply# 4   2/8/2018 at 13:13 (2,240 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

The machine in the first link you provided has only a 14 lb. capacity.  It may be a commercial model, but that's a small tub of old-school proportions.

 

There are a couple of 432 models in the second link with 3.3 cf capacity, which is the larger tub.  The price difference isn't that much.

 

If you can afford to splurge, the single SQ front loader shown for $1,499 will last you 20 years or more, and IIRC it may offer a short cycle, as front loader cycles are typically twice as long as top loaders.

 

Personally, I'd never go back to a top loader as my daily driver.  The cleaning ability of a front loader is superior beyond measure.


Post# 981917 , Reply# 5   2/8/2018 at 13:34 (2,240 days old) by jfel (San Diego)        

Thanks Yogitunes,

I'm not opposed to a used TL, especially if may actually mean greater longevity. I just don't know the first thing about how to pick a good one out from among the disposables. How can you tell which machines have a DD?

Regarding temperature: our water heater is very close, less than 8 feet away. Does distance from the water heater change how hot our "hot & warm" water are?

For those of you with LG FL, where did you purchase yours? Friends & family are encouraging me to check out Costco.


Post# 981922 , Reply# 6   2/8/2018 at 13:59 (2,240 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
those three sets that are along the ends are good directdrives to choose from....the 4 button design will give you the most flexibility with speeds to match any cycle, the variations are endless....

but most of what he has there are direct drive units.....you can't go wrong with that matched dryer as well.....

Flers will give you larger capacity, better extraction of water, less water and detergent use...longevity is the big question of anything built today, not sure Costco offers an extended warranty...I have seen good and bad from the selection that is out there...

8 feet is not too big of a deal from your water heater....if possible, always purge your line first.....


Post# 981923 , Reply# 7   2/8/2018 at 14:03 (2,240 days old) by RevvinKevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        

revvinkevin's profile picture

 

 

DD = Direct Drive (as opposed to the older Belt Drive) . 

 

That is a Whirlpool design that started in the mid 1980's.  It would be in Whirlpool (and all their sub-brands, Kitchenaid, Maytag, Amana, Gibson and others) and Sears/Kenmore up to 5 years or so ago I believe.   Based on the photo Martin posted above, it looks like the majority are Whirlpool or Kenmore.

 

I only ever see one washer & dryer on display in Costco, but if you check their website, the have many to choose from.

 

Water heater 8 feet away: That's great, no problems there.  IF your water heater were on the other side of the house, yes that would effect temps because it takes a while to clear the cold water out of the hot water pipe.

 

I hope this helps. 


Post# 981930 , Reply# 8   2/8/2018 at 14:59 (2,240 days old) by jfel (San Diego)        

What do you think of the newer LG Direct Drive models like this one what Costco carries?
www.costco.com/LG-5.2CuFt...

Can anyone speak to DD with a front loader? I didn't realize there was such a thing? Or is that what the SQ FL is too? Can you tell I'm a little confused? Hah!

Like many southern CA residents with young kids... I'm torn between FL & TL. FL because of our crazy water bill/penalties & fines. But TL because the repair man told me the SQ TL is much easier to fix. However... it seems like unless I get a SQ, I will never need to fix my FL when something big happens, because at that point it makes more sense to replace it. I think I'm spiraling into indecision! The more I weigh the pros and cons, the more fickle my enthusiasm for either becomes.


Post# 981932 , Reply# 9   2/8/2018 at 15:06 (2,240 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
I am in San Diego and will sell you a used Speed Queen top load machine for way less than new.
Let me know if you're interested. Also I will pair it with a Speed Queen gas dryer for a nice package price.
I have 3 SQ washers and only really want two.


Post# 981935 , Reply# 10   2/8/2018 at 15:28 (2,240 days old) by RevvinKevin (Tinseltown - Shakey Town - La-La Land)        

revvinkevin's profile picture

 

 

When "we" say DD or direct drive, we are only referring to the top load Whirlpool / Kenmore machines.  They used to have a more complicated "belt drive" design for the previous 35 years or so, before the "direct drive" design.

 

LG front load washers have always been "direct drive" because there is no transmission or belt, the motor is attached directly to the drum.

 

As for the 5.2 LG, I'm sure it would be a good machine, especially since it has the "Turbowash" (a recirculating water spray).  A friend of mine has an LG with Turbowash and he says it washes and rinses especially well because of that recirculating spray.

 

Honestly I would look at the LG MW4370HWA.  Same features as that 5.2, but doesn't have the controls on the door (or the silly storage bin on top), it has a "slightly" smaller capacity (if you can call 4.5 cu.ft. small), plus it's $410 less ($840 vs $1250 for the 5.2).  The thing is, honestly I don't think you would really notice the size difference between the 4.5 (already huge) and the 5.2.

www.costco.com/LG-4.5CuFt...

 

That is if you don't take up Robert on his used Speed Queen offer above.

 

Kevin


Post# 981944 , Reply# 11   2/8/2018 at 16:39 (2,240 days old) by jfel (San Diego)        

Thanks all so much for the information. We went ahead and bought the cheapest LG through Costco. WM3670HWA knowing that we will get at least 2 years of warranty. We realize this is probably just another "disposable" but from some of the other members here, theres a chance it might make it much longer than 2 years, maybe closer to 7? Our hope if to save up for a FL SQ but $1700 just isn't the smartest move right now. Our water heater is pushing its luck being 12 years old... anticipating that need is more urgent than having a top of the line washer.

www.costco.com/LG-4.5CuFt...

Decided FL is the best choice for our family & location. Realistically we do 1-2 loads daily with only 2 kids. We've got slipcovered couches and I like to wash our comforters/bedspreads/pillows at home.

Rob- are you the same Rob selling his set on CL in San Diego? I reached out to a Rob also selling his SQ set, but he let me know it was sold. In the end, I think that small capacity wouldn't have worked out for us.

Sounds like SQ FL residential is going bye bye this month...not so sure how well my plan will work out to buy one in the future...

Anyway, we are happy with the decision we made. Thanks so much! you all are so kind!
Jen


Post# 981946 , Reply# 12   2/8/2018 at 17:18 (2,240 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
jfel:  Regarding temperature: our water heater is very close, less than 8 feet away. Does distance from the water heater change how hot our "hot & warm" water are?
New washers for the past 7+ years have reduced water temperatures for energy-saving purposes.  They have sensors that mix the hot and cold water to attain specific temperatures.  The distance from the water heater and the setting of the water heater doesn't have as much effect ... hotter incoming water simply prompts the machine to mix in more cold to reduce the temperature.

The designated "normal" cycle is the most restricted because it's used for testing the EnergyStar qualification on the premise that majority of consumers will use that cycle for the majority of their washing.  Warm on "normal" may be 75°F to 85°F ... which is pretty much equivalent to cold.  Hot may be 95°F to 110°F, pretty much what was warm 20 years ago.

Getting a reasonable warm or hot temperature typically calls for using the Heavy Duty cycle, or Sanitary or Allergen for really hot if the machine has it (especially if an onboard water heater is involved).


Post# 981947 , Reply# 13   2/8/2018 at 17:43 (2,240 days old) by whirlykenmore78 (Prior Lake MN (GMT-0500 CDT.))        
If you can still get it:

whirlykenmore78's profile picture
A SQ FL is the best made washer ever for home use. Mine has been flawless. The reason is that it is a true commercial washer made for home use. This option while expensive will give you the best performance and value for price paid. It is unlikely you will ever wear this commercial grade washer out unless you are running a commercial laundry with it. I can also attest to the fact that they do a very good job. The SQ dryers also work very well and are Commercial grade as well. They do run a bit hot but once I learned how to set mine it dries just fine.
WK78


Post# 981948 , Reply# 14   2/8/2018 at 17:46 (2,240 days old) by whirlykenmore78 (Prior Lake MN (GMT-0500 CDT.))        
I should Add:

whirlykenmore78's profile picture
If you don't go for the SQ FL the next best thing would be a WP/KM DD. Those are bulletproof and clean very well.
WK78


Post# 981973 , Reply# 15   2/9/2018 at 00:00 (2,240 days old) by askolover (South of Nash Vegas, TN)        

askolover's profile picture
I see you have decided on an LG. I hope it works out well for you, I've never had an LG washer. I am VERY pleased with my Miele, but they are $$$$$! It can do a load in as little as one hour and heats as hot as I want it to regardless of the water heater settings.



This post was last edited 02/09/2018 at 00:25
Post# 981977 , Reply# 16   2/9/2018 at 00:11 (2,240 days old) by Dylanmitchell (Southern California)        

dylanmitchell's profile picture
I've seen the LG's and a few others at Costco and hope yours works well. The 2017 and earlier Speed Queen top loaders are great machines but a SQ FL could be a better for a family or bulky loads. They say to size a washing machine for your daily use and I don't mind running bulky items to the laundromat once in awhile but with the family it would be tougher.
Anyway let us know how the LG works out and what you think.


Post# 981980 , Reply# 17   2/9/2018 at 00:35 (2,240 days old) by Stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Good call on the LG. Reviewed.com loves it (or at least a very close version), see link below:

laundry.reviewed.com/content/lg-w...

And you can get an $85 rebate. See link below:

www.socalwatersmart.com/QUESTIONM...

If I had to buy a new washer now that very likely would be what I would end up with. Enjoy.


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Post# 981982 , Reply# 18   2/9/2018 at 01:13 (2,240 days old) by neptunebob (Pittsburgh, PA)        
I wanted to say that when I was groundskeeper at the zoo,,,

neptunebob's profile picture
We had a cheap Amana set and it worked well on the filthy cloths and mop pads we used in the rest rooms and windows, did not dumb down the hot water and did well if you did the rinse and spin first and then the deep water wash cycle. So that machine would work well for the cloth diapers and as a groundskeeper, I am so glad you are not using Pampers.

I see you are being responsible and buying the hi efficiency LG and maybe replacing the water heater with one that has new energy standards. I also recommend insulating the hot water line to the washer too.

Now if you really want to save the Earth, visit a Planned Parenthood center and find out how to do family planning for no more than 2 kids. PP is often the best place to find out, because my sisters tell me "old Gynes" want women to have babies.


Post# 982015 , Reply# 19   2/9/2018 at 10:06 (2,239 days old) by jfel (San Diego)        

Neptune Bob,
I was wondering if you'd make an appearance on my thread! I see your enthusiasm for PP has not changed since the last time a cloth-diapering Mom asked for some washing machine-related advice.

I should clarify.... I am not in the green peace camp. We have no intention of getting a tankless water heater (the water is so hard in San Diego that I've yet to meet a plumber who advises tankless from a longevity or financial stand-point. The hard water is too demanding on the system and will call for frequent replacement.)

I should also clarify, we hope to one day fill up a mini-van full of kiddos.

And regarding what your sisters tell you, I have yet to meet an OB with a bias that I ought to continue procreating. On the contrary, after every pregnancy, tubal ligations & various birth control options are offered.

Not sure what times your sisters grew up in, but in these modern days there seems to be the opposite effect. There is an overall disdain and intolerance for "large" families.... you know, like from people such as yourself.

If we didn't live in the state of mandates, we probably would have gotten a tried and true (and cheap) used WP DD.


Post# 982016 , Reply# 20   2/9/2018 at 10:31 (2,239 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
pay no attention to items that don't pertain to the actual thread...some people need to look in the mirror....

truth be told, I think we have more laundry with 3 kids, than when we had 10....the only thing you need to PLAN is meals!!...the rest is easy as pie!

in any case.....I hope you make out well with the LG, keep us posted on your progress, and insights to your pros and cons that you encounter...Good Luck!

check in with your local utilities, some offer rebates if changing to a FLer, or switching to gas, and other HE types of machines.....anything is worth a shot...

in my area, they offer cash back for turning in your old appliance....25.00 for a dryer, 50.00 for a washer, 75.00 for a fridge....


Post# 982035 , Reply# 21   2/9/2018 at 13:27 (2,239 days old) by stricklybojack (South Hams Devon UK)        

stricklybojack's profile picture
.
Yes there is a rebate on these machines here in San Diego, $85. I posted the link in my previous response.


Post# 982160 , Reply# 22   2/10/2018 at 13:49 (2,238 days old) by wft2800 (Leatherhead, Surrey)        

Mieles - expensive but worth it. They just work - and they work better than anything else.

Post# 982195 , Reply# 23   2/10/2018 at 17:54 (2,238 days old) by neptunebob (Pittsburgh, PA)        

neptunebob's profile picture

Neptune Bob,
I was wondering if you'd make an appearance on my thread! I see your enthusiasm for PP has not changed since the last time a cloth-diapering Mom asked for some washing machine-related advice.   You got that right!

I should clarify.... I am not in the green peace camp. We have no intention of getting a tankless water heater.  Actually, as of last year, traditional tank water heaters are now better insulated due to new standards.  In fact, some people were concerned new WH would not fit in tight spaces, but if you have room, a new traditional water heater should help save energy.


I should also clarify, we hope to one day fill up a mini-van full of kiddos.  As Freddy Mercury of Queen would sing and shout:  Why, WHY, wHY, wHy, why!?!

And regarding what your sisters tell you, I have yet to meet an OB with a bias that I ought to continue procreating. On the contrary, after every pregnancy, tubal ligations & various birth control options are offered.   You are right, it was a while back and since I don't go to an OB/GYN I have to believe what women in my life tell me.  But they did tell me that a woman going to the "baby doctor" for some other issue will be met with pregnant women in the waiting room with nothing to read but baby and parent magazines, talk of babies the whole time, baby pictures on all the walls, and when waiting in the exam room, have the appointment canceled because "he had to deliver a baby."  My one sister ended up telling me she had to go to PP but told me:  "Whatever you do, Don't Tell Dad."

Not sure what times your sisters grew up in, but in these modern days there seems to be the opposite effect. There is an overall disdain and intolerance for "large" families.... you know, like from people such as yourself.  Not from Catholic priests though.  They tell their audience to have kids, but don't deal with kids at all so never experience the crowds, the noise, the chaos.

If we didn't live in the state of mandates, we probably would have gotten a tried and true (and cheap) used WP DD.  Didn't WP sell DD washers in California?  I think so, and there should be plenty on Craig's list and Habitat for Humanity and getting an extra machine might be a good idea.  


Post# 982204 , Reply# 24   2/10/2018 at 19:16 (2,238 days old) by CorvairGeek (Gem State)        

Good luck with the new machine! I hope it works well for you and the family.

Children are a blessing. Our one and only is a very exceptional individual.

Jerry


Post# 982274 , Reply# 25   2/11/2018 at 09:16 (2,237 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
never thought I wanted children, but after adopting our 3, I couldn't imagine life without them.....


and if you never understood why Tigers eat their young, you do now!...


Post# 982283 , Reply# 26   2/11/2018 at 10:02 (2,237 days old) by CorvairGeek (Gem State)        

I know that feeling! Always found them terribly unpleasant. Having that innocent young life to nurture made me a better person.

Post# 982534 , Reply# 27   2/12/2018 at 20:37 (2,236 days old) by jfel (San Diego)        
New water lines?

General Question-
When installing a new washer, should you buy new lines? Will Costco install with the old lines, or do they require new ones? Delivery is scheduled for Wednesday!


Post# 982538 , Reply# 28   2/12/2018 at 20:59 (2,236 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
most new machines don't come with new hoses...now all of a sudden their optional at extra cost...

the standard is to replace every 5 years....some like the stainless, but standard rubber ones hold up just as well....

yet not a bad idea for a new machine to have a new set ready to be installed....this goes the same for dryer duct, and cords......unless their a few years old, never a good idea to reuse the old one...

many find it useful and for safety to turn off the water and unplug when not in use...


Post# 982700 , Reply# 29   2/13/2018 at 20:35 (2,235 days old) by LordKenmore (The Laundry Room)        

lordkenmore's profile picture

Will Costco install with the old lines, or do they require new ones?

 

Apparently they require new lines. Or so a PDF on the LG washer page linked to above indicates. But it's possible Costco will provide what's needed. I noted they indicated the delivery people would provide the "needed accessories" on the page about washers, which I take to include hoses.

 

Link to the PDF:

 

www.costco.com/wcsstore/C...

 

Washer specific info on page 8.

 

Safest thing might be to get in contact with Costco and ask.

 

You might buy the new hoses, but make sure the package stays sealed (to prove it's new), and buy from a place that will accept it as a return if not needed.

 

 

 


Post# 982860 , Reply# 30   2/14/2018 at 20:30 (2,234 days old) by jfel (San Diego)        
Thank You

I called Costco to confirm. The LG manual online indicated LG hoses were sold separately but the Costco representative said hook-up with new lines was included in the purchase price. Washer was delivered and installed today with new lines.

Anyone notice a chemical small? Its your typical "China-smell." I say China because the one time I went to China, there was a very specific smell I noticed in the markets. I'l recognize it upon opening certain plastic goods or fake leather goods.

I guess I'm glad with my purchase. Only time will tell if I should have listened to my initial gut all and go back to a TL. Husband is happy. We decided that if this modern machine needs replacement with in the next few years then we will search for a Whirlpool DD exclusively.


Post# 983076 , Reply# 31   2/16/2018 at 20:36 (2,232 days old) by Labboy (SD, CA)        
LG

labboy's profile picture
We have an LG and also live in San Diego. If you get an LG, definitely get one with an internal heater. We have been extremely happy with our LG.

If you are using unsoftened SD water, you need to consider getting STPP (sodium tri poly phosphate) and using some with each load in the wash. It will make an amazing difference because of how it binds the minerals that are in hard water. In our LG front loader, I use 1 TBSP along with detergent and it makes a huge difference.

Good luck with your selection.

Bob



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