Thread Number: 86246  /  Tag: Modern Automatic Washers
Update from me: my new washer and new questions I have
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Post# 1108022   2/15/2021 at 01:40 (1,165 days old) by TUBerosa (Topeka, Kansas, United States)        

I appreciate the feedback I got after my last post, regarding my medium sized 18-year old Kenmore front-loader made by Frigidaire that had bearings go bad, and spacing issues to replace it in my kitchen.

I ended up choosing the Speed Queen FF7 (a front-loader). I showed pictures, measurements, and my diagram of the layout to the salesman. He said their installers could remove my door if necessary, and that that was included in the usual installation fee. So was their separation of my stacked unit to take away the broken washer, and keep my dryer that still works great here (to be used side-by-side). For now, I have moved my storage cart, toaster oven, and more out of the kitchen.

There were snafus. The installation part of the business refused to handle door removal. I had to choose if I would cancel the sale, or figure out how to get the door removed by someone else. A handyman I have used before and who knows how to work with old houses was able to fit me in quickly and remove the door. I don't know what the charge will be -- I asked, but he won't tell me until he returns to reinstall it.

I kept my scheduled installation date. There was delay because their truck broke down mid-day and the installers had to get a different truck. And this was in very cold weather. They arrived, but then could not get my stacked unit apart. They called a supervisor and still could not resolve it. They tell me they think the previous installers from 18 years ago connected the washer and dryer incorrectly. I had taken a long time to decide on which washing machine to buy, but now I had to choose quickly if I was going to have them leave the stacked unit with me (where one broken machine takes up good real estate), or have them haul away the stacked pair, and I lose a perfectly working dryer that fits well in my space. I ended up having them haul away the stack. So now I am dryer shopping and have that new expense. Can you tell by the screws I circled if separating the stack can be done (reasonably), or not?

As to the new machine: I knew to be cautious about signing the paper too soon that lets them leave. I asked if they leveled the machine. We had had a language barrier the whole time, but he seemed to be admitting no. By feel from the top of the machine and pushing on it, he seemed to be saying it was level, and I accepted that. I asked about the power cord, and he got it plugged in, and the power came on. It was about 7:52 pm and they had had a long, cold, bad day, and I signed and they left. About three minutes later I see a hairline crack in the front left top corner of the machine, and mold in the fabric softener dispenser. (I know SQ says it is normal for there to be some water in the machine at the time of receipt, but I don't know their stance on mold upon arrival.) I wiped away the mold with rubbing alcohol on a wad of TP, but could not access the mold behind a short wall. I will post before and after mold wipe-away pics. I do not want to use liquid chlorine bleach, because I don't want my colorful clothes to accidentally get discolored.

There is a rattle sometimes from behind when I spin the drum with my hand. I think I recall a thread I read where this was discussed, and it goes away after around 6 loads of laundry use? I have not used the machine yet.

There is also unattractive adhesive residue on the front of the machine, which I know is not important, and can be addressed, but the whole list of things is so frustrating for me when this was a huge purchase for me, that should be extra spiffy when brand new for such a price (and with me facing new expenses).

How do you think I should handle this with the seller?


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Post# 1108030 , Reply# 1   2/15/2021 at 07:05 (1,165 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
on your stacked unit....

bottom of dryer front, there should be two little plugs that have to be removed, pop those out and then there should be two Phillip screws to come out, then a slight tilt/lift and pull forward, and the unit should release from the washer....

you may want to take the leveling legs off the washer and use on the dryer, as from that configuration, the legs have been removed....


Post# 1108035 , Reply# 2   2/15/2021 at 08:23 (1,165 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        
The BEST washer on the market

Congratulations on your new purchase!!!
Many on this site would say that this is the BEST washer on the market PERIOD!
It’s built like a tank and will last many years!
The crack would bother me more than anything. Call the store and ask for a replacement part.
Bad delivery and I’m sorry for your troubles.
These washers are water tested at the factory and I’m sure the residual water sat in the dispenser for a while inside the box in all sorts of temperatures causing the mold. I wouldn’t worry about this but you can run an empty bleach load for peace of mind and an extra rinse. Your clothes will not get ruined in the following loads.
About your dryer, it may be too late to get it back BUT call the store, speak to your salesman and I am sure you’ll get some satisfaction.
Best of luck,
Mike


Post# 1108067 , Reply# 3   2/15/2021 at 13:31 (1,165 days old) by RP2813 (Sannazay)        

rp2813's profile picture

I doubt the salesman will deliver any satisfaction.  He already lied when he said they'd remove the door.  Granted, it's a swinging door, which he may or may not have known, but IMO he said they'd do it, so the dealer should get the bill for door R&R.

 

I've had experiences with lame installers in the past.  When we bought our Amana TL washer and dryer pair (SQ clones back then) we heard a crash when they unloaded the dryer off the truck.  That dryer rattled from day one.   We put in a call for a service tech visit and he simply advised that nowadays, "dryers are just tin," and left it at that.  Since the dryer was in the garage, we didn't bother to pursue replacement. 

 

This entire scenario is entirely unacceptable for the amount of money that was spent on your new washer, and borders on stereotypical sexism.  I would give the dealer and installation team a lousy rating on Yelp, and include a narrative.


Post# 1108074 , Reply# 4   2/15/2021 at 14:21 (1,165 days old) by twintubdexter (Palm Springs)        

twintubdexter's profile picture

"Stereotypical?' I had to look that one up. I asked Alexa and I didn't even understand the 3 definitions she gave me. I should have paid more attention in school. I was such a malingerer and sluggard.

 

PS...that crack would bother me too.


Post# 1108077 , Reply# 5   2/15/2021 at 14:49 (1,165 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        

Every one of us at one time or another has had bad deliveries. Remember you catch more flies with honey that vinegar. Be firm yet polite when you speak with the salesman. I am sure in this day and age you will get some satisfaction. Maybe a break on a new dryer? Whatever you do just treat him or her with respect and you’ll get respect back. If he or she is unresponsive to your concerns then you have other avenues to follow. Most times the sales reps are decent people and it’s the delivery tech who does not know what was promised to you. When deliveries are contracted out this usually happens. This was in my opinion part of the downfall of Sears, among other issues. If this is a small business I am sure they will help you out, and I highly doubt they will pay for the removal of your door but make restitution in a different way vis a vis a discount or maybe 10% back?
Mike


Post# 1108089 , Reply# 6   2/15/2021 at 16:37 (1,165 days old) by TUBerosa (Topeka, Kansas, United States)        

Today I called the local number for the company that sold it to me. I was really nervous, but I had a notebook with my list of issues. The man who sold it to me has Mondays off, but I talked to someone else. This sort of surprised me, but she said they would arrange to come get it and bring a different one. I also emailed her a cut and paste of the suggested way to separate my old stacked unit. (I didn't attribute it to you, Yogi, but thank you. I told her it was a reply to me asking on a forum online.) She was emailing the part of their business in a different city where they have the warehouse or something like that.
She didn't address the door removal issue of me having to hire it done by someone else. I let that rest for now, if the other parts get corrected. They offered Friday the 19th for delivery/exchange, but that didn't work for my schedule. We settled on the 23rd (eight days from now).


Post# 1108090 , Reply# 7   2/15/2021 at 16:41 (1,165 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        
Good for you Sarah!

ea56's profile picture

For what you must have spent it is only correct that the dealer exchange the machine for you.  I’m glad that you reached someone that would do the right thing.  Now I hope they send out a more experienced delivery/installation crew when they return to make the exchange.

 

Eddie


Post# 1108091 , Reply# 8   2/15/2021 at 16:47 (1,165 days old) by TUBerosa (Topeka, Kansas, United States)        

MTN, yes I have been very frustrated with the outsourcing of delivery. I don't blame the installers though. They are hard workers put in bad spots. I truly hope they do not get in trouble for my complaint.

Post# 1108093 , Reply# 9   2/15/2021 at 16:59 (1,165 days old) by TUBerosa (Topeka, Kansas, United States)        

Thank you, EA. I hope so, too.

Post# 1108098 , Reply# 10   2/15/2021 at 18:13 (1,165 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        

So glad it worked out for you! That’s great news! You paid too much for that washer to have a hairline crack on the console. Some folks would’ve asked for money off and could’ve lived with it. Not me, and I’m glad they were quick to offer you a new machine. I hope your next delivery goes smoothly. Best of luck to you.

Post# 1108099 , Reply# 11   2/15/2021 at 18:14 (1,165 days old) by mtn1584 (USA)        

So glad it worked out for you! That’s great news! You paid too much for that washer to have a hairline crack on the console. Some folks would’ve asked for money off and could’ve lived with it. Not me, and I’m glad they were quick to offer you a new machine. I hope your next delivery goes smoothly. Best of luck to you.

Post# 1108102 , Reply# 12   2/15/2021 at 18:24 (1,165 days old) by vacerator (Macomb, Michigan)        
My stepson

jus bought a brand new house and his Samsungs delivered by Best Buy had a huge dent on the front corner of the dryer. They offered $125 refund or a new one. Being in a main floor laundry, where everyone see's, they asked for a new one. Upon trying to use the top load washer, which was level, an error message and a no spin problem.

Post# 1108103 , Reply# 13   2/15/2021 at 18:29 (1,165 days old) by Yogitunes (New Jersey)        

yogitunes's profile picture
well yeah the price at first is a bit steep for SQ....but it is most guaranteed the last machine you will ever have to buy....

these are very gentle on clothing....one thing I like about FLers is you can mix loads that you would never consider in a TL machine....lint is a thing of the past...

and most definitely consider more hot/warm washes, just best for your machine in the long run.....I never have to clean my machine, in fact my Neptunes dont have a 'clean washer' cycle, and doesn't need it....I dont leave the doors/drawers open ever....and just add some bleach to white loads...you will never have an issue...

no matter if you use your old dryer, or go for a matching one.....consider a counter top to cover both wall to wall....for one thing will prevent anything from falling behind the machines....

you can find at Lowes/HomeDepot, either butcher block or white melamine board in 4'x8' sheets.....take measurements, and they will cut it for you....the melamine also offers an iron-on edging for a clean look....

I had to cut this into two pieces to fit into the alcove(I tried for one whole piece)....but you get the idea....also grab a pack of stick on felt or rubber feet to keep the 'counter' off of the machines to prevent scuffing....

a tension shower rod above would help with hanging clothes out of the dryer, if that works for you....you have many options for that space...

keep us posted on your progress.....


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Post# 1108112 , Reply# 14   2/15/2021 at 19:32 (1,165 days old) by Lorainfurniture (Cleveland )        
Delivery guys

I can tell you this as an appliance store: yes, we will take the doors off, but we are popping hinge pins off only. It’s absolutely against the rules to take a screwdriver to customers home. Unless you specifically told him it was a swinging door he likely assumed it was just a regular door.

As far as replacing the machine it was the right call as that is the quickest way to solve the problem.

Dirty little secret with larger appliance stores (like big box). The store contracts with a delivery company. The delivery company gets paid like $37 per stop. There are extra charges for steps, more than 3 appliances etc. a truck will typically do 25-30 stops per day. The people who actually do the work get paid crack money. $100/ day or so. 12 hour day. A lot of them are drug addicted and have criminal history. It is literally miserable work nobody with half a brain would make a career out of it. Turnover is insane which would explain why they didn’t know how to unstack your old unit.

Within 5-7 years your body is ruined.

Smaller business are usually totally different. I have 2 delivery guys and they only deliver my merchandise. They don’t get paid that well but I only give them 5-8 deliveries per day.


Post# 1108142 , Reply# 15   2/15/2021 at 21:51 (1,164 days old) by TUBerosa (Topeka, Kansas, United States)        

Thank you all for the replies! Now I am feeling timid in case someone from the store/business I am dealing with does a search and sees me here. I don't want to make waves (pun!) or burn bridges if it can be resolved amicably.






Post# 1108224 , Reply# 16   2/16/2021 at 12:13 (1,164 days old) by vacerator (Macomb, Michigan)        
Eff the Stores and delivery

jerks! Maybe they need to see complaints here! Half the time you ask for a hook up and they get there and say they are not allowed to connect a gas line unless the applaince ahs a dedicated shut off valve behind it, even though there is one close by. Or if you don't buy new supply line hoses, or a 220v. power cord from them.
Besides, what are they going to do? You are the paying customer. News travels, both good and bad! Lose one customer, they will loose ten!



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