Thread Number: 90518  /  Tag: Modern Automatic Washers
Maytag Commercial MVWP576KW vs Maytag Commercial Technology MVWC565FW (replacing a Maytag A8120)
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Post# 1150487   6/7/2022 at 12:34 (660 days old) by speedmaytag (San Francisco, CA)        

www.lowes.com/pd/Maytag-C...

www.lowes.com/pd/Maytag-4-2-cu-f...

I'm trying to decide between these two washers. I generally do a lot of hiking and have dirty soil, and I want to look for a washer that can at least last 10+ years. Which one is more durable? As far as I know, the MVWP576KW has a higher RPM motor but smaller drum size, while the MVWC565FW has a lower RPM motor but larger drum size. Has anyone had experiences with these? These have been available since 2016, so a year's use or more would be good for experience.
For reference, I already have a pre-Whirpool Maytag (the Maytag A8120, from 1980). It has a permanent press feature and adjustable water level, and it has worked since I've had it in the 1980s. Should I keep it, despite it using 60 gallons of water per wash? It has lasted since 1980 with no problems. Calculating local water rates, I only save $575 every 5 years.





Post# 1150502 , Reply# 1   6/7/2022 at 17:25 (660 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        

If you must get a new Maytag, I would get a MVWP575KW which I as I understand it is the same as the MVWP576KW but with a 5-year warranty and not sold at box stores.

Maytag is not what they used to be since Whirlpool bought them out and destroyed the Maytag name along with their own brand. Their "commercial grade" 575/576 has some upgraded parts, but on the whole is not what I would consider real commercial grade. But at least with the 575 you get the 5 year warranty.

"Commercial Technology" just means it uses the same technology as commercial equipment with inferior cheap parts that are designed to fail. Sort of like saying a paper airplane uses aircraft technology because they both fly.

I would vote for keeping your old Maytag.


Post# 1150515 , Reply# 2   6/7/2022 at 20:20 (660 days old) by nmassman44 (Brooksville Florida)        

nmassman44's profile picture
True Maytag built washers dont use 60 gallons total, more like 40 if its the super capacity big tub. They would only use 60 if you add an extra rinse. If the Maytag you have still runs perfectly...honestly, keep it. That washer will outlast anything that Whirlpool builds today and that Maytag will preform better for you if you do all that hiking and all the grubbiness that you describe.
I had a Whirlpool 4516 washer that did use enough water if one used the Super Wash cycle and Deep Wash setting. I hated that washer since it had issues with soil removal and granted it did well spinning at 700 rpms , there was MUCH lacking. One thing is longevity and once the year warranty is up they dont know you....even if you have the extended warranties that Whirlpool tries to entice people on the Maytag since. Look at the reviews and they speak volumes and CU dont speak highly of them across the board.


Post# 1150518 , Reply# 3   6/7/2022 at 20:52 (660 days old) by panasonicvac (Northern Utah)        

panasonicvac's profile picture
I agree with the others here, I wouldn't replace your Maytag if it still runs fine. Especially for the fact that the original Maytag company has since been long gone. And I wouldn't replace your older Maytag with either of those newer Maytags, you'll likely be disappointed with your change. I've seen both in person before and I'll tell you what, they both feel cheaply made. Honestly if you did had to replace your Maytag with a brand new washer, you're better off by getting a Speed Queen TC5 instead. In my humble opinion that is the LAST good top loader washer that's on the market as of today. But if it HAD to come down between those two other Maytags, I'd get the commercial model. Like what the other user said, I'd get the MVWP575KW over the MVWP576KW as it comes with a longer warranty and you're definitely gonna need it because unfortunately I've seen these commercial Maytags break while they're under warranty. Not good for someone like me who'd want a washer like a SQ that's designed to last 20-25 years or even longer without ever having to get it fixed. Overall, just keep using your Maytag and try to fix it when it does break. Anyways, that's my two cents here.

Post# 1150522 , Reply# 4   6/7/2022 at 21:29 (660 days old) by qsd-dan (West)        

qsd-dan's profile picture
Your Maytag 810 uses 19 gallons per fill, that's 38 gallons plus a few gallons for the 1 minute spray rinse, puts that around 42-44 gallons.

Want a gander into the future of owning a MVWP576KW?

www.automaticwasher.org/c...


Post# 1150524 , Reply# 5   6/7/2022 at 22:01 (660 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
If you are concerned about water costs and conservation

combo52's profile picture

I would replace this washer wit a new Front Load machine, doing so will reduce you per load water use down to 12-15 gallons per load compared to around 45 gallons per load. And the new machine will wash larger loads cleaner and better rinsed with much less fabric wear than your current machine.

 

Best new FL machine is a SQ by far but if $1800 is not in the budget consider a WP or MT FL machine in the $1000 dollar range or even an $700 Amana FL machine.

 

John L.

 

 


Post# 1150536 , Reply# 6   6/8/2022 at 01:21 (660 days old) by Maytag85 (Sean A806)        

maytag85's profile picture
I’d keep your Maytag running for as long as possible since washers have gone down hill in quality and reliability since 2011. One you get rid of your Maytag, there’s no getting it back since utility companies along with greedy corporations will just about do everything in their power to convince you to replace perfectly working appliances with many years left with new-fangled appliances that can’t make it past 5 years with repairs and don’t work all that well either.

Post# 1150555 , Reply# 7   6/8/2022 at 09:01 (659 days old) by ryner1988 (Indianapolis)        

ryner1988's profile picture
I echo what most others have said here. If the Maytag you have now runs fine, why ditch it?

If water conservation is your goal, then combo52 is right, you should look into getting a front loader. High efficiency top loaders don't work all that well in my opinion, and the ones that do use nearly as much water as yesterday's machines. Front loaders are meant to clean with much less water and can do it effectively because of their design--they tumble the clothes through the water horizontally so everything in the load still gets saturated.

I think the high efficiency top loader design has potential but it's just not there yet, at least from what I've seen. Others may have had different experiences.

The Maytag MVWP575/76 is as close to an old-school top loader as you can get these days without shelling out the cash for a Speed Queen TC5 and is a good performer from what I've heard, but is built using the VMW platform, just like it's residential cousin. If you are not familiar, VMW stands for vertical modular washer and is what replaced Whirlpool's direct drive design in 2010. These machines are easily serviceable but I've never really heard of them lasting very long before a major and expensive part gives out. My previous washer was of this design and lasted 6 years. Also, and this may just be an irritation unique to me, I can't stand the sound of the VMW machines. It's really hard to explain unless you've heard one. If your laundry is in a separate or closed-off part of the house, that may not be a big deal, but if not, well, just go on Youtube and see if you can handle listening to that noise every time you do laundry. It's definitely different, to say the least.

So to sum up, my vote is keep your old Maytag. If you don't feel like that's an option do to water conservation issues or you simply feel it's time to upgrade, get a middle-of-the-line front loader. That should still serve you well. If you want traditional performance in a more modern body, and can't afford a Speed Queen, grab the commercial Maytag but be aware of durability issues with that design.

Good luck.


Post# 1150567 , Reply# 8   6/8/2022 at 11:47 (659 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        

As for buying the Maytag "Commercial" if you can't spend the cash for a Speed Queen TC5, keep in mind that the TC5 is a little less than 20% more than the Maytag, at least at the place where I bought my TC5, and by my best guess, the TC5 is likely to last 5 times as long. You can save another $100 buying the Maytag from Lowes, but again you don't the warranty, though Lowes will probably sell you an extended warranty for a couple hundred or more, maybe even raising the cost to the TC5 range.

I agree with others about getting a front loader if you want to save water and energy if it would fit your space and style and you can afford a Speed Queen one, but personally I intend to never buy a new product from Whirlpool. I would consider possibly a Miele if I couldn't get Speed Queen.

I hope the TC5 lasts longer than I do so I don't have to worry about getting a new machine again, but being traditional, old-school, and hard-headed, and listening to stories about the older front-loaders, I have trouble getting my head around how they wash twice as well with half as much water and detergent and are twice as gentle on clothes, and now I'm even seeing people claim they last twice as long as top-loaders. I'd have to see a little evidence for that last one (I wonder shy Speed Queen isn't claiming their FLs last 50 years?).

By the way, I got to this point when I bought a Maytag Bravos around October of '20 when I was desperate for a new machine. Washers were hard to find and I bought the first one available not believing everyone who told me how poorly they're made today. Less than eight months later the machine stopped agitating, not that it ever did a very good job (it was an impeller model). Whirlpool couldn't get a repairman out to my very rural area, so they offered me what I believe was a MVWC565 like you have above as a replacement as the Bravos was apparently no longer available. I wanted something that might last so I asked them to upgrade me to the "commercial" 575 washer. The washer never arrived and I never got straight answers from Whirlpool. Their customer service is dismal, to say the least, it was at least an hour on hold each time to get a representative, and then I never got honest answers as to where the replacement washer was, just dates as to when it was supposed to have arrived and never did. Finally I complained to outside agencies, and that resulted in a full refund from Whirlpool which I used to get the TC5.

Whirlpool did me a favor by not fixing the machine or getting me a replacement. I'm still out my time and frustration, but I think the lesson I learned is worth it, otherwise I would probably never have believed the price of a Speed Queen was worth it. I went into the thing thinking I could get another washer that would last 20 some years for $500.


Post# 1150569 , Reply# 9   6/8/2022 at 12:11 (659 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

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ryner1988: High efficiency top loaders don't work all that well in my opinion, and the ones that do use nearly as much water as yesterday's machines.
The best HE toploader thus far is the Whirlpool/Kenmore Calypso, and it is more water-efficient than the impeller designs.  Calypso is long discontinued, largely because ... consumers.


Post# 1150574 , Reply# 10   6/8/2022 at 13:16 (659 days old) by ryner1988 (Indianapolis)        
Whirlpool Calypso

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I don't know much about the Calypso, only that there was a class-action suit in the early 2000's and that resulted in the machines discontinuation.

My conclusion about HE top loaders was reached using what I do know about human behavior, which is that many consumers select the deep fill option by default on these machines. And with good reason in some cases. In my experience, sometimes the auto sense works well, and sometimes it doesn't, and that largely depends on how you load the machine. As I said, these washers tend to be picky beasts, which is why I don't like them.


Post# 1150577 , Reply# 11   6/8/2022 at 14:03 (659 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        
If only it wasn't for the consumers...

Consumers tend to want things that work out of the box without taking a tech course.

Even so, I believe that when most consumers buy a major appliance that doesn't work like they expect, they take the time to try to figure out why and how to make it work. People tend not to like to admit they made a mistake and wasted so much money, so they want to make it work, and in many cases even pretend it's working better than it is. For half a year until it broke I tried to pretend that Maytag was a great machine, I had a hard time admitting I wasted $800.

I understand that there are others who like to immediately start complaining without knowing what they're doing. Unfortunately if they call a company like Whirlpool for assistance because they're too lazy to read the manual, or the manual just isn't adequate they're likely to end up even more dissatisfied with the customer "service". As I recall Whirlpool gave very little to no explanation as to exactly what the differences were between each cycle in the manual. I had to try each cycle. At least the glass top was useful so I could see how the clothes were getting moved through the water, or not.

So maybe companies would be better off without clueless consumers who don't know what's good for them buying their products. I'm glad to oblige Whirlpool in that respect.


Post# 1150659 , Reply# 12   6/9/2022 at 12:42 (658 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)        

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"I have trouble getting my head around how they wash twice as well with half as much water and detergent"

I guess a lot of Americans who are used to traditional toploaders think that frontloaders don't use enough water. But they work better with less water in the main wash than when they would use more. In order to get the maximum out of the wash action, the laundry has to fall back on the side of the drum, not into the water. That action copies the old fashioned way of washing by beating it on a rock.






Look at the rock, it is above the water level. Now if it would be under water, the wash action wouldn't be very effective. Older European front loaders used lower water levels for cottons and permanent press items. Delicates were washed in much more water so the clothes would roll around in a lot of water, preventing the laundry from falling on the side of the drum. So low water level and less detergent, but still enough to make it a concentrated solution make front loaders very effective at cleaning.


Post# 1150661 , Reply# 13   6/9/2022 at 12:47 (658 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)        
Sean

foraloysius's profile picture
I'm sorry I have to address the same issue again. We all know by now that you don't like modern appliances. You're beating that dead horse over and over again. Perhaps you could keep in mind that there are people who do like new appliances (including me, although I like older too) and I think it's very impolite to trample on things that other people might like.

IIRC you were the one who defriended me on Facebook after I said in a private message that I found modern European Fords dead ugly. I guess you like Fords. But one negative comment about them was already too much for you. So guess how people who like modern appliances feel like when you are bashing modern appliances over and over and over again. It gets really old now. So say something nice or say nothing at all.

Rant over.


Post# 1150665 , Reply# 14   6/9/2022 at 12:57 (658 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
I may have mentioned an occasion of washing several lightweight/sheer curtain panels in a (2006 Duet) frontloader with powdered detergent on Delicate, which fills higher to purposely soften the washing action.  Too much water, the items floated with no falling/slapping action.  Undissolved detergent in the folds.  Ran again on Normal, much better with rolling and falling/slapping against the drum surface, no detergent residue.


Post# 1150667 , Reply# 15   6/9/2022 at 13:00 (658 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)        

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Yes, exactly! Therefor often liquid detergent is recommended for delicates.

Post# 1150670 , Reply# 16   6/9/2022 at 13:16 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        
Beating clothes on a rock...

Thanks for the explanation.

I guess now the problem I have getting my head around is that front loaders clean better because they emulate the action of beating clothes on a rock, and spend more time beating the clothes than a TL, and yet at the same time they are so much gentler on clothes.

Just to be clear, I'm not really trying to be argumentative, I have to admit there are advantages to FLs, I'm just hard-headed and old fashioned and want to keep my TL, which I also think has its advantages.


Post# 1150671 , Reply# 17   6/9/2022 at 13:28 (658 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))        
Curtains

Such sheer, floaty synthetic items really are a bain of FLs.

Either you need low water levels so they don't float over the lifters with extremely gentle rhythms or (done correctly IMO) need VERY high water levels with large baffles and a good agitation speed.


Still think that there is a basically no modern washer that can wash sheer synthetic curtains aswell as a Novotronic/Softtronic Miele or even later when they called the cycle "Synthetics" instead of "Delicatey".
Half full drum with water, no interim spins, and regular, but short and low agitation.
The load would float completely for ing itself under water.

That's the one kind of load where even I - a sucker for getting perfect results with as little usage possible - juat haven't found a good replacement for the half tub of water.




On the topic on "how can that clean" the only thing that I can just repeat and repeat is bath vs. shower:

Both cleans your body about equally.
Yet one uses a third or less the water.

A bath still has a reason to exist.
But as a society, we just can't (and most don't want to) afford everybody taking a full bath every day - sometimes multiple times.

Nobody says taking a bath once a week is wasteful. Nobody takes that away from you.
Just doing it every time you need to wash yourself can be considered just plain excessive.


Post# 1150675 , Reply# 18   6/9/2022 at 13:32 (658 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
... want to keep my TL, which I also think has its advantages.
What are your considered advantages of a toploader over a frontloader?


Post# 1150678 , Reply# 19   6/9/2022 at 14:03 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        
Advantages of a TL

A top loader fits my laundry room better.

My clothes are clean despite whatever FL promoters may try to tell you.

I can do a load in half an hour.

I can open the lid to add clothes or watch the wash action.

I don't have mold problems.

I don't have problems with unbalanced loads, my Speed Queen is rock solid and doesn't so much as shimmy.

It's a few hundred cheaper than the FL model.

I can use whatever detergent I want.

I'm sure I could come up with more, but I admit I can't give a comparison from personal experience as I haven't owned a FL, but I know people who have and have been dissatisfied.

I'm kind of surprised that with over a hundred thousand posts on a washing machine forum would need to ask what the advantages are and wonder why people like them, but if you really don't know there are many articles on the web that a quick search will turn up that you can compare.


Post# 1150679 , Reply# 20   6/9/2022 at 14:05 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        

Sorry, I misread the post count.

Post# 1150683 , Reply# 21   6/9/2022 at 14:35 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        
"Excessive" water use

For what it's worth, I have a well, and around here water is considered a renewable resource. I'm not real concerned with water use other than the wear and tear on the pump and such.

Which brings up another peeve I have: We're all so concerned about conserving resources, but we buy HE junk that barely lasts five years if we're lucky, and rarely considered the costs of landfills full of modern Whirlpool and other cheaply made products, and all the resources required to build the replacements that will also go to the landfill way too soon.


Post# 1150690 , Reply# 22   6/9/2022 at 14:55 (658 days old) by Maytag85 (Sean A806)        
reply #13

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Not bashing on modern appliances, just mentioning to keep their machine running as long as possible. Sure, modern appliances aren’t quite my preference but I just don’t want someone to have something newer that will perform worse than their previous machine nor be reliable.

I don’t remember unfriending you on Facebook, I think you may have unfriended me since I don’t recall unfriending you on Facebook. I never unfriend people on Facebook unless if people who friended me or I friend them and they never reach out to me.


Post# 1150694 , Reply# 23   6/9/2022 at 15:13 (658 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)        

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Not bashing:

Denial is not only a river in Egypt.

I found no less than 8 remarks in the last year wit the phrase "piss-poor". "Piss-poor design, piss-poor washing, piss-poor performance" and that is only with that phrase. Enough is enough.

And in regard to Facebook, you should just refresh your mind, because I have a good recollection of what happened.

Back to modern washers.



Post# 1150698 , Reply# 24   6/9/2022 at 15:25 (658 days old) by Maytag85 (Sean A806)        
Reply #23

maytag85's profile picture
Why are you bringing this stuff up? Lately I’ve been keeping to my self in a way and haven’t started anything with anyone as of late. I simply commented on how to keep your machine running as long as possible, not “You HAVE to keep you Maytag running as long as possible”, I merely just suggested to keep your machine running for as long as possible not you HAVE to keep your machine running for as long as possible.

Post# 1150699 , Reply# 25   6/9/2022 at 15:40 (658 days old) by foraloysius (Leeuwarden, Friesland, the Netherlands)        

foraloysius's profile picture
Just look at Reply #6.

Post# 1150701 , Reply# 26   6/9/2022 at 15:47 (658 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

ea56's profile picture
Wow, now who’s the “know it all”.

Eddie


Post# 1150722 , Reply# 27   6/9/2022 at 18:01 (658 days old) by Lorainfurniture (Cleveland )        

OP, you should keep what you have. If you really want to replace, you should get the MVWP575GW

MVWP575GW is the correct model number for the “good” Maytag that comes with a factory FULL parts and labor warranty for 5 YEARS.



Post# 1150737 , Reply# 28   6/9/2022 at 20:49 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        

Well, I think Lorainfurniture gets us back to the OPs question and agrees pretty much with everyone's general consensus here, assuming the OP really must get or keep one of the three machines he asked about.

I just hope the OP is still here and finds the discussion helpful.

Personally, this discussion has made me wonder if I should have just put a big rock in a stock tank.


Post# 1150740 , Reply# 29   6/9/2022 at 21:16 (658 days old) by speedmaytag (San Francisco, CA)        
Everyone's replies

Hi everyone,

After reading through everyone's responses, I'll stick with my old Maytag! I think the discussion has been very helpful! I am of the mindset that is the "less is more" mindset, and want to look for things that last as long as possible. Thank you everyone for your input!


Post# 1150744 , Reply# 30   6/9/2022 at 21:27 (658 days old) by petek (Ontari ari ari O )        

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Anyone care to comment on the abysmal score that this Maytag Commercial washer received in Consumers Reports.. a 1 out of 5 for washing performance. The only one to receive that lowly honour. An overall 27 out of 100. Not something I would choose regardless of warranty.

Post# 1150748 , Reply# 31   6/9/2022 at 21:58 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        

I think you would be wise to check other sources, Consumer Reports seems to have their own agendas nowadays.

I believe that pinkpower4 on this board has a Maytag Commercial and is pleased with it. Search for her and other owner's views on the washing performance. I'm pretty sure Lorainfurniture has done some valuable reviews. From what I remember seeing most owners are satisfied with the washing performance.


Post# 1150750 , Reply# 32   6/9/2022 at 22:00 (658 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
I'd buy a frontloader if I needed a new washer.  No toploader of any choice on the market.


Post# 1150761 , Reply# 33   6/9/2022 at 23:26 (658 days old) by petek (Ontari ari ari O )        
I think you would be wise to check other sources, Consumer R

petek's profile picture
What agenda would that be and why? It's not like they rated all the other Maytag models so poorly nor all the other WP products. This one in particular of all makes and models got the lowest score on it's regular settings. They can't test every washer on every setting to see if diddling with something improves it so they test them according to how they are rated for their energy star performance, apples to apples. Washing performance is measurable. It can be measured scientifically with electronic equipment to see remaining dirt the human eye cannot and it must be repeatable each and every time and that's what they do. Don't think for a moment that the manufacturers don't scrutinize their reports to the nth degree looking for such conspiracy theories such as the one you just made, or just plain errors or mistakes in their testing, and you know what they can't find any. Because once again all the tests are repeatable. Besides that they invite manufacturers and the public in, and manufacturers invite them in as well. So again i ask, what are these agendas you claim they have that affects how they rate washing machines or appliances in general? As well what other credible sources are there.. certainly not a NY Times weekend journalist or JD Powers who are not even a testing organization.

Post# 1150769 , Reply# 34   6/10/2022 at 00:42 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        

I was hoping not to get into politics here, but people seem to insist to criticize every opinion, and even fact here. CR is "Influence Free" and yet takes money from the likes of the Ford Foundation. They are heavily into politics and "green' agendas and such. I even seen articles such as one recommending that people move their money to banks based on the race of their owners, which is the very definition of racism and has nothing to do with the quality of the bank services. I recall the article was written by Brian Vines, look it up if you don't believe me. I've seen articles written by people who have obviously never used or have any firsthand knowledge about the products they pretend to write authoritatively about, such as wood and pellet stoves that contained many mistakes. They specialize in their own alarmist conspiracies, many which have been successfully challenged. Pink hamburger slime, poison peanut butter, and their faulty testing of Suzukis, as I recall, are just some from the top of my mind. CR is itself well funded, and I'm sure corporations don't see the need or value of pursuing every odd claim by CR, especially as people are relying on them less and less thanks to the internet. They continually change their testing methods based on whatever factors they see as relevant at the time. For instance, one type of washer may very well not get the same rating for washing performance, even if they get clothes exactly the same cleanliness, based on the type of washer. So no, I do not believe they always compare apples to apples.

I know these things for a fact because I was a subscriber. They completely lost my trust, you can continue to trust them unquestionably all you want, however don't tell me I have to or I'm some kind of conspiracy nut.

@DADoES yes I know you would never buy a top loader, but you're not a lowly consumer who doesn't know what's good for them either.


Post# 1150770 , Reply# 35   6/10/2022 at 00:56 (658 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

ea56's profile picture
I don’t trust Consumers Report anymore either, I haven’t for quite some time. I was subscriber for over 20 years. Reviews in the 70’s and 80’s used to be much more detailed. Last I looked not so much. In all honesty I haven’t looked at CR or their annual report in a few years now.

I check out the reviews online by actual owners if I’m looking for the 411 on a product.

Eddie


Post# 1150777 , Reply# 36   6/10/2022 at 02:22 (658 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        
Reviews in the 70’s and 80’s used to be much more detailed.

Yes, that's around the same time frame I enjoyed reading and trusted CR. Even then I had reservations, like it seemed pickup trucks were always lower rated because they compared the ride, handling, and gas mileage to whatever sports car they set as the standard, not seeming to realize the purpose of trucks. One thing I remember is how they rated a brand of motor oil as the best based on their tests. A couple mechanics I knew claimed they never used that brand because the vehicles they worked on that had used that brand for some time tended to have sludge buildup.

I understand how their testing may not be able to detect things like long term real-life testing, however they may try to simulate it. And they tend to rate things like chainsaws as being geared for the average suburban homeowner who cuts a tree branch every couple of years.

But I'm digressing even further from the OP.


Post# 1150784 , Reply# 37   6/10/2022 at 06:31 (658 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
I have both the Maytag mvwp575gw and the TC5003...

I don't have much time to type.

Before these two top loads, I had a front load LG washer and dryer. I still have the dryer although the control panel is starting to have issues. I had it between 9 and 10 years. I only had two issues with it. The drain pump, which was caused by one of the kids leaving a bobby pin in their pocket. I was able to fix this myself. The other issue was the rotor came loose. It's a big round thing easily accessed by removing the back panel from the washer. Checking this on a regular basis might have prevented this repair. It was under $100 and cost me a little more since I opted to buy from a place that would let me send the part back if it didn't work. I fixed this myself. Mine had a sani wash and I believe it heated the water too. Clothes were clean. Where I think the front loads beat top load (aside from less water and detergent use) is that heated cycle. It took the odor and mildew out of clothes with nothing special other than that cycle. I had no issues with smell. I don't use fabric softener, and I left the door cracked. I use line 2 for large loads and line 1 for small loads of detergent. Where I think the top loads beat front loads, is they can get those comforters and bulky items cleaner simply because they can turn them over exposing all areas with enough water. Some of the LGs have a screw you can turn to add a bit more water. I made sure the water did not come past where one couldn't open the door at any point during the cycle. If I were to get a front load again, it would probably be an LG because of that cycle. I like the idea of the Speed Queen as they've probably nailed the front load, but the cost and lack of heated option give the LG and edge for me. The Speed Queen will likely last longer, but there is a lot more cost difference in the Speed Queen front loads and a good front load of whatever brand you choose. I'm not much on electronics, and front loads in general are more difficult for *me* to fix.

I've have owned the Maytag mvwp575gw for four years, and I've had no issues in my kid and pet friendly home. In my opinion, it is the best overall performance for cleaning and second overall when everything else is considered. The others are correct. Get the 575gw model. You get the 5 yr. parts and labor warranty. This is model is likely sold at your locally owned appliance retailer and NOT the big box store. Ironically, it is less! The main water cycles have tap hot. These cycles wash patterns work as expected.

I also think *I* will be able to find and buy parts less expensive later. There is more on this washer vs the TC5003 that *I* can fix. I am an extra small petite female with no background in appliance repair, sales, etc. It does have some plastic parts compared to the TC5 that may need replacing, but they are easily replaced and not that expensive. It does have a gear box, which is almost a given won't last as long as a transmission. However, they seem to be in the $200 to $300 price range. I think I can replace that. I don't think it's a true commercial washer but definitely one of the better performing and better built residential washers. People having issues with it are using it in commercial settings and looks like with lots of bleach.

The biggest con is the ONLY half tub fill is the Normal cycle. Hot is warm, and warm is cool. This is also the only cycle that has a spray rinse. I find it works well for quick washes or for mixed loads (pants, shorts, T-shirts, etc.). Because the wash time of this cycle is 7 minutes, it isn't really long enough for heavily soiled items. Wash action is too rough for delicates. You can pause the wash at the beginning if you want a presoak. I did modify my setup so I had hot water for the Normal cycle. If you add any options like a presoak or extra rinse, the Normal cycle become a full tub fill with full tub rinse(s) with the water temp chosen.

Wash like items with like items. If you need to wash a pet bed, balance it out with a towel. When used that way, the loads seem to balance themselves out. Take things that don't belong in a washer to the laundry mat.

Key parts in this washer have been upgraded including a thicker belt, bearings, capacitor, etc.

So why did I get the TC5? Some people get go crazy in their old age and buy cars. I decided to see what this washer was all about. I do think there is a point the price will get too high for me or the government will make things worse. My kids are getting older, and I do smaller loads now of delicates, whites, etc.--loads I don't think the Normal cycle of the Maytag works as well or at all for. So I have both washers :-). My opinion hasn't changed from when I didn't have it because I had researched both products well and knew what I had and what I was getting. TC5 wasn't available back in 2018. I think the TC5 is best overall for durability, longevity, and just better made. It is second in cleaning performance but still cleans well! Transmission has a 15 yr. part only warranty. I don't think I can replace that, but I would only be paying for labor if it does go out. My absolute favorite cycle is Normal when used with the heavy option. I get hot water, longer wash time, and the spray rinse works well with a lot of loads. It saves water. I honestly think my spin dryer does a better job of wringing out excess residue than a second rinse would for those loads. BTW, spin dryers greatly reduce the dry time. I have both Panda and Ninja. Overall, I prefer the Ninja for quietness and it seems to balance better as well as wring out a little more water.

In reality, I think the TC5 will last a typical family 15 to 20 years. I say this because that seems to be the average life expectancy of even the old, good washers. I know, I had one of the prized Whirlpools (15 years for us. Maybe more if I had known what I do now). In reality, I think the Maytag will last about ten years maybe 15 (with a few repairs). Keep in mind the Maytag doesn't cost as much as the TC5. Many people on this board can get parts for costs and do the labor themselves. This greatly increases life expectancy for both washers!

What I think is key is the bearings. That is what will take both of them out for me and for most people. There is one thing I'm not sure about though. If one changes out that gear case in the Whirlpool, is that also changing out the bearings? If so, I might be able to keep that one going.

I like both washers very well for different reasons. I plan on keeping both. I was fortunate to get the TC5 at a lower cost by waiting, waiting, and waiting and honestly just plain good luck. Otherwise, I probably would not have it. Where I live they are selling TC5 at or above retail in most places. I can still get the Maytag mvwp575gw for $850 (or only $50 more than I paid).

I did opt for the Speed Queen dryer because mine is going out simply because it has a rack option.

Good luck with your decisons. I do agree with the others if you have one of the old, good Maytags, it may be worth it to keep it going. If you want a TC5, you may need to get on a waiting list in some areas anyway.

I'll be interested in what you decide. This was longer than I planned and not enough about the TC5, but I hope that helps.


Post# 1150795 , Reply# 38   6/10/2022 at 10:18 (657 days old) by ryner1988 (Indianapolis)        

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@PinkPower4, do you find the sound of the Maytag gearbox machine obnoxious at all? For me, that's the only thing that would be leaning me more towards the TC5 if my current washer dies. It just sounds like a washer. Those gearbox machines are noisy in my opinion. That strange whomp...whomp...whomp sound it makes during agitation, so irritating! I personally feel if one has one of those machines, they have to have a dedicated laundry room separate from the rest of the house to be able to stand it and I don't--my washer and dryer is behind a set of doors right in the hallway of my one-bedroom apartment.

I agree with @DADoES in that a front loader is probably the best way to go if one is getting a new machine. However, not everyone has the setup for it. In my case, I would be afraid I wouldn't be able to fit them in my laundry closet, depth concerns, or get the door open all the way because the closet door jam is in the way. But maybe there's more room than I think there is.


Post# 1150796 , Reply# 39   6/10/2022 at 10:54 (657 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

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The operational sound of the Maytag (or any VMW machine, including other brands of the same mechanical design) is largely because the motor continually turns on and off, reversing clockwise and counterclockwise each time to provide the oscillating agitation motion.  SQ TC5 runs the motor continuously in one direction with agitator oscillation provided by the transmission.


Post# 1150797 , Reply# 40   6/10/2022 at 11:09 (657 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        

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I have a Roper RTW4516FW2 with the VMW design thats in the laundry closet in the hallway between both bedrooms. I’ve never found the noise to be a problem even when I’ve run the machine after we’ve gone to bed, I just close the folding doors.

One reason that I’ve got a TL is because like ryner1988 there isn’t enough depth in the laundry closet for one of the current generation FL’s. I’d have to take off the folding doors and put up a curtain to conceal the washer and dryer and I’m not down with that at all. Or get a 2.4 cu ft capacity FL and then have to take any large items to the laundromat and I’m not about to do that either.

At any rate, I’ve been very pleased with this Roper. Its dependable, simple and cleans excellently. In three years of service its never given me one single problem.

Eddie


Post# 1150811 , Reply# 41   6/10/2022 at 16:20 (657 days old) by panasonicvac (Northern Utah)        
My overall thoughts

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I've had the privilege of trying out the Maytag Commercial along with the matching dryer. I was a bit disappointed when I found out that Whirlpool moved away from their traditional direct drive top load washers a while ago, the Kenmore 90 Series that I have which used to belong to my grandparents, it's my most favorite washer of all time. But I do applaud of Whirlpool for coming back out with washers that are pretty similar to the direct drive washers, though I feel that they're not quite the same. Here's what I do like about this washer compare to my Kenmore. I like that the tub is bigger, I also like with how much quieter it actually is. Though the noise on the Kenmore have never bothered me, in fact I prefer a washer to be noisy like it's doing something. And I like that when the water fills up, the tub spins around just slightly. Now here's what I don't like about it. As I've said before, the washer feels cheaply made to me. It has a stainless steel basket that can attract magnets, especially the ones that are sharp which can rip through clothes. I also could care less about the electronic control panel, I'm now having a hard time with trusting electronic control panels despite the claims that they are better than mechanical. There's only two water fill options to use. The highest ones can't quite fill all the way to the top. It tempers the water temperature. And I honestly feel like these are way too expensive for what they are. My first impressions, it really did got the job done. Especially that it uses a dual action agitator which can really deep clean but it can however wear out the laundry faster. Would I overall recommend it? Yes I would. But it wouldn't be on my top 5 choices to pick. However, I would certainly recommend it over the MVWC565FW. Anybody out there that is looking for a new Whirlpool top load washer, I would look into the WTW4816FW (Only sold at Lowe's) as I humbly believe that is the ONLY reasonable brand new Whirlpool top load washer to buy on the market today. Even more reasonable than their other cheaper models like the Amana NTW4516FW. But for anybody that wants a Whirlpool top load washer out there regardless if it's new or used, I'd buy a reconditioned direct drive model regardless if it's a Whirlpool, Kenmore, or KitchenAid brand. Same goes for Maytag, I'd buy a reconditioned direct drive Maytag over a brand new one. And for anybody that wants a brand new top load washer on the market today, I'd honestly would look into any Speed Queen model regardless if it's a household or commercial model. Anyways, that's all I wanted to say here.

www.lowes.com/pd/Whirlpoo...


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Post# 1150816 , Reply# 42   6/10/2022 at 17:10 (657 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        

First I'll point out that at least a couple of people seem to have missed the fact that the OP has stated the decision was made to keep the old Maytag.

So there are two people at least so far here who have tried, and one owned for 4 years, the Maytag Commercial, and seem to be impressed with the cleaning ability of the Maytag, which goes along with what I read and watched when I thought I was going to get the MT.

I trust their actual experiences far above the "unbiased" and "scientific" testing methods of Consumer Reports, even if that does make me a conspiracy theorist. I can't say I trust all reviews on the Internet, specifically the reviews on shopping sites that are given in exchange for some kind of promotion when the products are brand new, but ones like Lorain Furniture and some other appliance bloggers and dealers I find valuable.

If Consumer Reports really did give it such a low rating, I have to wonder what its methodology was this time around. Did they use the most energy efficient setting they could, and maybe even dock the score based on energy usage? Did they forget to plug it in or connect the faucets? I know Consumer Reports is concerned with promoting energy efficiency, and not being able to "diddle" with all settings to get the best wash, or whatever, could be used as an excuse to give a machine they don't like a low rating.

Being one who doesn't wear delicates, the gentleness of FLs and such seems at least to some extent to be hype. Just another selling point which I think means little to me in real life. I'd say the vast majority of my wear actually comes from work and play, not washing. How and where the wear occurs seems to back that up. Plus I have towels, bed sheets, and such that have lasted years.



Post# 1150840 , Reply# 43   6/11/2022 at 03:36 (657 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
Maytag mvwp575gw vs Speed Queen TC5003WN Sound and More

ryner1988, I have some hearing loss. Even with hearing aids, sounds are muffled to me.

We have a small house of about 1000 square feet. The laundry area is just off the dining area, and there is a door that can be closed. The sound doesn't bother me enough to close the door, but the kids will no matter which washer is running. The dining and living area are one large space with only the furniture defining the area's purpose.

I put together a short clip of the two washers. Because each was filmed the same way with the same items, this may give you some idea of how each sounds. I can tell you that there seems to be a little more pop and clicking sound with the Maytag as it goes through the whole cycle vs a more rhythm (repetitive pattern) sound of the Speed Queen.

You may hear a clicking sound with the Maytag. This is from the top part of the agitator. It will make a clicking sound when turned in a clockwise direction even with no clothes. There is some play. I may need to tighten something up?

I didn't realize Lowe's had that Whirlpool washer. This is awesome! I haven't seen the Ropers in a while, but these are definitely good options that are lower priced. No doubt users on this board will get a lot of life out of these models because they are used properly. The OP may have another option when the time comes to finally replace that old Maytag. Dual action agitator and more options for smaller loads for less!

Some day when I get a chance, I will try to do a comparison from a consumer point of view. I have no background in sales, repairs, etc. or work for either company. Before this purchase in 2018, I've always had just one washer/dryer set and used them until they no longer could be repaired. I make just enough to cover necessities, so this decision wasn't made lightly. The prices of appliances keep going up, and I am glad I have both.

More than likely, these two washers will probably be the last purchase for me if they last as long as they are supposed to.

Hope the video helps.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO PinkPower4's LINK


Post# 1150863 , Reply# 44   6/11/2022 at 14:07 (656 days old) by panasonicvac (Northern Utah)        

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Oh and one more thing that I forgot to mention about the Maytag commercial that I don't like about it compare to my Kenmore is that it has a lid lock. I get that it's a safety feature but I'm a type of person that wants to add in whatever laundry I'd put in during the cycles. Not to mention that I think it's fun to see whatever the washer can do during it's cycles.

Post# 1150864 , Reply# 45   6/11/2022 at 14:37 (656 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
Lid Lock

It's easy to disable the lid lock on the Maytag Commercial. I think I took two screws out. Then place that piece where it would normally go when the lid is closed. You will need to take out and replace at end of cycle to get Done light to go off and to reset it for the next load.

I don't recommend doing this if you have children, disabled adults, or curious pets. It is a safety feature there for a reason as you've mentioned. I've disabled mine. I think it only locks during the spin cycle. However, one can always pause the washer to add more items, but you can't watch the wash action.

Sometimes, I think it would be nice if this model has a clear window instead of solid metal piece. The dryer sold at Lowe's does have a clear window, but the washer still has the all metal lid.


Post# 1150865 , Reply# 46   6/11/2022 at 14:58 (656 days old) by panasonicvac (Northern Utah)        
Reply #42

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I agree that I would buy something based on somebody's own view and experience, even when they do a thorough comparison test. And especially when they not only sell them but also repair them for a living. I wouldn't buy just the way it looks which unfortunately that's what alot of consumers out there today would buy because it looks "pretty". In fact I was very impressed with Lorain Furniture's video when he did a test between the Maytag Commercial and the Speed Queen TC5. I'll admit, at first I was leaning towards of getting the Maytag over the SQ after that comparison video. But however though, I had second thoughts when I ran across this thread a while ago on here about the Maytag Commercial. Now making me set with going for a SQ because again I want something durable, reliable, and not to mention that I want something that doesn't temper the water temperature. I already have my Kenmore that I really do love to death but I want something that I can get parts for that are still being made today so I'll be buying a SQ. Originally I planned to buy the TC5 along with it's matching dryer the DC5, but inflation unfortunately made it to where I can get a reconditioned SQ at a better price. And so far I'm waiting to hear back from a dealer that's reconditioning a SQ set for me.

www.automaticwasher.org/c...


Post# 1150876 , Reply# 47   6/11/2022 at 17:03 (656 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
Recap. My thoughts on the Maytag Commercial...

I have learned so much from this board!

The Maytag mvwp575gw DOES HAVE tap hot for the deep water (blue on the dial) cycles. The only cycle on that washer where the water is tempered is the Normal Eco. Hot is warm, and warm is cool. There are workarounds for that Normal cycle to get hot water for it. The biggest con for the Normal Eco at this point for me is just that it's too rough for delicates and not a long enough wash time for heavier soiled items.

It was painful to read through that linked thread. What I think is a bit odd is that most people were happy with the Tag 575gw until the TC5 was released. When I bought my Tag 575gw, there were no SQ mechanical models to be found, and the only Speed Queen washers for sale were the TR series. Speed Queen has since revised the wash pattern of the TR series, but I still wouldn't buy that model over the Tag.

The majority of posters on this board are washer enthusiasts. They trade washers like most people trade out cell phones. I could be mistaken but the person with that Maytag set went from that to a TC5 to a front load set in about the same four-year period that I've owned the Tag. I do think it's very possible this person did indeed get a lemon. Most people just made do with what was available like I did. It wasn't their first choice. Does that mean the Tag is now trash? I even had someone tell me they'd take their clothes to a laundry mat before buying that Tag. Really? Do you really want to wash your clothes with someone else who may have used it for dirty diapers? Especially when the water temp may be tempered at the laundry mats too??? No way! I still think the Mtag is the overall best cleaning new residential washer one can buy. It does cost more than the Ropers and Whirlpools with a dual action agitator, but I got a 5 yr. warranty and a little sturdier grade. For families or people that want something than take a little more abuse, the extra may be worth it. However, I have no doubt those with the Amana, Roper or Whirlpools can get theirs to last a long time too and for less :-). Honestly, if I had seen those less expensive models first, it's probably what I would have had. That was the price range I was looking in.

I've combed through reviews, boards, etc. extensively. The people that seem to have issues with these Mtags are either using them in a commercial settings probably overloaded and with lots of bleach. My spline in my 4-yr. old machine does not look like the ones shown in that picture! I usually have just one bleach load a week and use Lysol laundry sanitizer where I can. I've also not had any clothes torn up. The one time I did, it was caused by some metal sensors in the LG dryer that had come loose. I am very careful to use mine correctly. These new washers ren't like the ones I had growing up at all. None of them are.

I've been a home owner for almost 30 years. I have only had one washer and one dryer at a time until I felt it was more practical to replace than repair. Then 2018 happened and it was time to replace a 9 to 10y/o frontload, and we have all these restrictions where one washer doesn't work everything anymore. Most temper the water, restrict the water, have inferior agitators, and are made cheap. This results in using more water, more chemicals, more time, and more resources. No one is fixing these. They wind up in the landfill much quicker now. I think there are more of these new washers sitting around the outside of house than actually in the houses. We have no zoning restrictions that prevent washers from being yard ornaments here. LOL. At least pot a plant in them or something.

I admit I would have bought the TC5 had it been available in 2018. Why? Because it has more options for smaller loads. Yes, it will last longer. However, you will pay more for that. Now, you will pay significantly more for that. Scalpers in my area are selling these ABOVE MSRP. In some cases that means, it is almost twice the price of that Maytag. There are waiting lists in some areas for these. I decided things aren't going to get better in this respect, so I patiently waited until I could snag a set for a reasonable price. And this is only because I have a place for two washers. It would have been plain silly to take a loss on a washer that is working. I use both now depending on what type of load I am doing. Surely, I can keep one of these going.

I have a $100 Stanley tool set from Walmart. That's all I need to fix almost anything on that Tag. The Speed Queen may require special tools to remove the agitator--a drive bell tool and some agitator hooks that aren't cheap. What if something get under that agitator? The Maytag does have a coin guard, and I've taken the agitator without having to order special tools. More than likely it will be easier to get parts for the Mtag and for less. It shares many parts with washers that come off their commercial line.

I still think the Maytag is the overall best cleaning new washer one can buy today. If it is out of someone's budget, they should take a look at the Amana, Roper, or Whirlpools with the dual action agitator. I also still think the TC5 is the best overall washer if I could only choose one (if price is not a factor) because it has more smaller load options and will probably have less repairs over the years. The Maytag and other vmw models do have some plastic pieces that will likely have to be replaced along the way, but they are cheap and easily replaced by most consumers who are physically able to do so. As an extra small adult, I have no issue with the weight of either washer. However, repairs are getting more difficult for me just because of my age, vision, and joint pain. In the long run, the extra cost of the Speed Queen may pay for itself especially if one has to pay for repairs or use extra water when not necessary.

The point of this post, is help people make informed choices best for them (needs, budget, availability, etc.) and not SQ or nothing. And yes, for many that is indeed a front load! I had no real issues with my LG and would buy again (probably a 4000 model with Turbo wash) if I were getting a front load.







Post# 1150883 , Reply# 48   6/11/2022 at 19:14 (656 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        
MT or SQ Hot Water

PinkPower4, I appreciate all your thoughts, they are particularly valuable as you have extensive real-life experience and look for the same things in a washer that I do.

I just wondered if you could clarify there at the beginning of your last post comparing the washers where you said, "The Maytag mvwp575gw DOES HAVE tap hot for the deep water (blue on the dial) cycles. The only cycle on that washer where the water is tempered is the Normal Eco. Hot is warm, and warm is cool. There are workarounds for that Normal cycle to get hot water for it. The biggest con for the Normal Eco at this point for me is just that it's too rough for delicates and not a long enough wash time for heavier soiled items."

The TC5 has a cycle called "Normal Eco", and I believe it is the only cycle where the water temperature is tempered. So did you mean the second sentence to refer to the TC5 rather than the Maytag for the rest of that paragraph?

You actually like the "Normal Eco" cycle with the Heavy Soil option on the TC5? Interesting! I may have to try it out. I admit I've fallen for all the warnings that the "Normal Eco" cycle is there just to meet regulations and not worth using, probably all made by others who never used it. I usually consider my laundry to be fairly dirty and don't worry too much about water use, so I pretty much always use the Heavy Duty cycle, and I usually pause the cycle and let it soak, or use the Heavy Soil option if I don't have time to mess with it.

I don't plan on trying it until or if I have to, but I don't think there is anything special about removing the agitator on SQ, slipping a belt or something under it may work about as well as a special puller. I think I could get the drive bell off with what I have. From a quick search it looks like you could get seal tools for less than $10 if you can't find something else the right size.

I hope I never have to worry about it, I usually get things done, but they're never quite as easy as I think they should be.

From your video I still can't understand how Consumer Reports could give the wash performance 1/5, even if the rinse was completely ineffective (and I assume it's not). Supposedly they used the normal cycle shown in your video as I understand. But then they gave the Maytag Bravos impeller washer I had for a few months 3/5 for washing and 4/5 for reliability as I recall. It didn't wash nearly as well as your video seems to show or any other machine I've ever used, and lasted less than 8 months doing no more than two loads a week on average.


Post# 1150905 , Reply# 49   6/12/2022 at 07:46 (655 days old) by Pierreandreply4 (St-Bruno de montarville (province of quebec) canada)        
speedmaytag this is the set i have

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if this help this is the maytag set i have as daily driver since 2021 and so far i can say i am pretty satisfied washer cleans pretty well

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Post# 1150912 , Reply# 50   6/12/2022 at 10:00 (655 days old) by lovestowash (St. Petersburg, FL)        
WTW4816FW

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I have this Whirlpool top loader, and I agree, it is the only new Whirlpool I would buy...can't remember if I bought it at Lowe's or Home Depot...it's the only model I could find with a true "dual action" agitator, not an impeller with a stem...I get a true hot wash, with a full tub of water in wash and rinse...it has a variety of cycles, some of which are redundant, but I primarily use the "Bulky" or "Delicate" cycles, on the "Light" or "Ex Light" soil level settings...it offers a 15-second pseudo spray rinse before the first spin, and a clear full tub rinse...average load is done in 35-40 minutes...prior to this, I had the current version of the Whirlpool front loader, but the shortcomings of low water levels, and inability to spin with small loads, prompted the purchase of the top loader...I modified the lid lock, so the lid remains open all the time, on every cycle...a few years back, I had a Series 90 Kenmore direct drive, which was the most flexible washer I've ever owned, but it remained with the home when I moved to St. Pete...this Whirlpool is the closest new machine I could find with a semblance of similar flexibility.

Post# 1150922 , Reply# 51   6/12/2022 at 13:40 (655 days old) by ea56 (Cotati, Calif.)        
RTW4516FW

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I have this Roper washer that is a Whirlpool based VMW design and is essentially the same as George’s in reply#50 above. The only real difference is the control panel and the WTW4816FW has a few more cycle selections. Everything that George stated in his post is the same experience that I’ve had with my Roper. I kept the lid latch from the prior Maytag Centennial Washer that my Roper replaced. From time to time I will place this lid latch in the lid locking slot so I can observe the washing activity and believe me this washer has plenty of turnover.

I had been primarily using the Normal/Regular cycle because it is so quick, 34 mins. But about 3 mo ago I began using the Normal/Heavy which adds about 30 to 40 mins to the cycle time depending upon whether I select hot or warm water, hot takes longer, and its tap hot not dumbed down. Its well worth the extra time. The auto sense fill always provides enough water to cover the load and give free movement and turn over of all the items being washed. I’ve never owned any other washer that cleaned any better than this machine.

The ratings from actual users are high with approx. 87% satisfaction and these reviews weren’t all made by people participating in some promotional scheme. This Roper and its sister ship the Amana NTW4516FW are two of the best kept secrets for a decent well functioning washer at a price that can’t be beat.

I’m glad to hear that George is as satisfied with his Whirlpool as I am with my Roper.

Eddie


Post# 1150925 , Reply# 52   6/12/2022 at 14:12 (655 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
WindRivers, some videos for you and the others :-)

I'm not sure how Consumer Reports gets their ratings either. They don't make sense. I find YouTube videos, user reviews, and boards like this very helpful.

The only incentive one gets for writing a review of the Maytag mvwp575gw that I know of is a chance to be entered into a sweepstakes.

The Normal Eco cycle is the only cycle on BOTH washers (TC5 and Maytag mvwp575gw) where the water is tempered. If you select other options on the Maytag, the Normal Eco basically becomes a full tub wash and full tub rinse(s). If you select Heavy Soil with the Normal Eco, you get an extended wash time with water temp chosen and a spray rinse. I included more details in the description on these videos.

Here are some videos that may help you and others see why I am saying what I am about the Maytag:

Maytag mvwp575gw Warm Water Demo (This shows how the cold and hot alternate to fill the tub).






Maytag mvwp575gw Hot Water Demo (This shows how the hot stays on the whole time & water temp is tap hot).






On older TC5 models, you may have to start with a different cycle first, cancel, and then set to this cycle to get the hot water. I'm not sure. I get hot water and a longer wash time just by selecting Heavy Option. I can't take credit for this. I think I saw this on one of Kirk Rivas' videos and Smurdle confirmed this. Normal Eco with Heavy Soil becomes an extended wash time with water temp chosen and a spray rinse :-)!!!

Speed Queen TC5003WN Normal Eco w/ Heavy Option (aka "Super Cycle")





If you need a rinse:
Under Options, select Extra Rinse
Under Cycle Selection, select Spin
Tap Deep Fill for more water
Tap Start

Both of these washers can pretty much do a load in 25 minutes (Normal Eco) to an hour (and that's with a presoak for the deepwater cycles).


Post# 1150942 , Reply# 53   6/12/2022 at 16:07 (655 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
PinkPower4:  There is one thing I'm not sure about though. If one changes out that gear case in the Whirlpool, is that also changing out the bearings?
VMW design incorporates the tub seal and spin/agitate bearings into the transmission (gearcase) assembly.  The seal and spin bearing piece presses into the outer tub from beneath when the assembly is mounted.


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Post# 1150945 , Reply# 54   6/12/2022 at 17:52 (655 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
DADoES

LOL. That question kind of outs me as just a consumer. But. I can watch YouTube and follow directions to fix these things. This is great! It will truly be interesting to see which washer I can keep going longer.

Post# 1150946 , Reply# 55   6/12/2022 at 18:12 (655 days old) by ryner1988 (Indianapolis)        
@ea56

ryner1988's profile picture
I had the Whirlpool version of your Roper, and unfortunately it died in 6 years, failed gear box was the cause. But there is something to be said for a washer that can clean well and only costs $500 max, even if you have to replace it every few years. As I said, I had a hard time with the noise of mine, but I'm definitely not arguing about its functionality.

As I've stated before, I still feel a good front loader or the TC5 are the best options on the market today. But for all my hollering and yammering about how much I hate the noise of the VMW machines, a middle of the line front loader or the Speed Queen are both pricy, so it's very likely I'll end up with one of these machines again if my old Maytag tanks because they are plentiful, easily affordable, generally clean well, and objectively are a good option if one is suddenly without a washer. I'd probably just buy the roper or Amana version as, like the reply above mentions, I find many of the cycles on the Whirlpool version redundant. For instance, normal with extra light soil on the Whirlpool washer is the same as quick wash, which the Roper and Amana both have.

I, too, find the extra half hour of wash time worth it to make sure my clothes are both clean and rinsed well. I always used the heavy duty and bulky cycles on the Whirlpool, along with warm water, and I never bothered with the deep water option. Never found a need for it. I do find that the pray rinse isn't enough for my needs, as my wife has sensitive skin to a degree and I like to make sure all the soap is rinsed out of the clothes, so I always used a cycle with a full rinse. I've never understood why long cycle times bother people. I just walk away and do something else until it's time for clothes to go in the dryer, no big deal.

I do wonder if I just had an extra loud machine for some reason, as the ones I've heard on Youtube soud much quieter than mine was.


Post# 1150964 , Reply# 56   6/13/2022 at 01:27 (655 days old) by panasonicvac (Northern Utah)        

panasonicvac's profile picture
This is what I'd love to see again. By the time I'd need a washer and dryer for my own place, I hope SQ would be offering back their limited time offer for a full 10 year parts and labor warranty on all of their residential machines. If they do when that time comes, then I'll reconsider purchasing the TC5 and the DC5. I wished I would've known that SQ was offering this deal when we had our washer and dryer replaced because I would've jumped on it in a heart beat.

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Post# 1150968 , Reply# 57   6/13/2022 at 02:18 (655 days old) by WindRivers (Wind River Range, WY)        
Normal Eco

PinkPower4 thanks again for the explanation. I didn't realize the MT Commercial and TC5 were so similar in that respect. I had studied the MT when I thought I was going to get it, but I guess I'd forgotten it when I got the SQ instead.

I think mainly what confused me was that the cycle is called "NORMAL ECO" on the SQ console, but I thought Maytag just referred to it simply as "NORMAL", so when you added the "Eco" part I thought you were referring to the SQ.

I have the newer TC5003WN model, and my understanding is that there is no mechanical or electronic difference between it and the TC5000WN, just that the TC5003WN has the 5 year warranty instead of 3 year. I don't think model numbers are generally changed when no mechanical, electrical, or programming changes are made to the machine itself, but I guess it helps them to keep track.


Post# 1151123 , Reply# 58   6/14/2022 at 18:42 (653 days old) by washabear (Maryland)        

The Speed Queen might be all well and good, but it doesn't matter when you can't buy it. NOBODY in my area sells them. That kind of makes the decision for you. If Speed Queen wants to be a contender in the home market, it needs to be more readily available.




Post# 1151137 , Reply# 59   6/14/2022 at 21:36 (653 days old) by henene4 (Heidenheim a.d. Brenz (Germany))        
Home Market

That was more of an afterthought it appears.

They had a sturdy design, and selling it to normal consumers was just a nice side income.

Their service and retail infrastructure is totally focused on professional applications, and where that overlaps geographically, they just took in home consumers aswell.
So if a consumer falls out of that, they don't really care much. Don't know if I want to say "unfortunately", but at least they don't sell you a machine and then let you wait weeks for service because the next technician has to set aside an entire day for just that one customer.


Post# 1151139 , Reply# 60   6/14/2022 at 21:39 (653 days old) by combo52 (50 Year Repair Tech Beltsville,Md)        
Speed Queen sales in Maryland

combo52's profile picture
Hi, I don’t know where you live but there’s more than 30 dealers and Maryland, and Appliance Land alone covers 75% of the population in Maryland.



And there’s quite a few independent dealers in Western Maryland and in the Eastern shore area of Maryland.


John L


Post# 1153076 , Reply# 61   7/2/2022 at 04:31 (636 days old) by GELaundry4ever (Nacogdoches, TX, USA)        
Maytag Commercial

I went to Lowe's recently and saw the Maytag commercial. I saw a hole in the agitator where you'd put softener, but I didn't see a softener cup.

Post# 1153088 , Reply# 62   7/2/2022 at 08:28 (635 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
Maytag mvwp575gw and Fabric Softener

The hole in the center of the agitator is where you can put fabric softener. It is dispensed when the water from the wash cycle drains out and the tub spins before adding the rinse water. I personally don't. All rinses are cold now, and fabric softener just doesn't seem to work as well in colder temps. Maybe that is just my perception. Also, the rinse cycle only agitates about two minutes once the tub is full and then begins to drain out.

Fabric softener adds a coating that can keep the water and detergent from moving through the fabric as well next time, may coat the sensors of the dryer so they may not work as well for auto dry based on moisture, and gunk up the washer. Of course, that is a generalization. Others may have no issue with it.

I do occasionally use scent boosters. They don't soften the clothes, but they can add a boost of scent that makes the clothes stay smelling fresh. Tide and Persil both have options that leave a clean lasting scent without additives.

Some have other alternatives they use that can soften the clothes. I think I've seen where vinegar can be used.


Post# 1153097 , Reply# 63   7/2/2022 at 10:36 (635 days old) by DADoES (TX, U.S. of A.)        

dadoes's profile picture
 
Softener contains fabric lubricants, vinegar does not.  Vinegar can reduce fabric harshness and counteract detergent or soap alkalinity toward a more neutral pH.


Post# 1153099 , Reply# 64   7/2/2022 at 10:40 (635 days old) by kenc (SF Bay Area)        

Vinegar?

Wouldn't clothes come out smelling like a Fish and Chip shop?


Post# 1153124 , Reply# 65   7/2/2022 at 17:00 (635 days old) by PinkPower4 (USA)        
kenc...

that's what I thought too. But even spin drying and then putting in the dryer takes the vinegar smell out. The vinegar is used in place of the softener.

By the way Odoban in the rinse cycle with a soak can work wonders too to get tough smells out.

Here is a link with more information about using vinegar.


CLICK HERE TO GO TO PinkPower4's LINK


Post# 1153125 , Reply# 66   7/2/2022 at 17:28 (635 days old) by qsd-dan (West)        
Vinegar? Wouldn't clothes come out smelling like a Fish

qsd-dan's profile picture
I've used it a few times and noticed no scent. It works but doesn't soften the clothes as well as a fabric softener does. Vinegar may be sufficient enough in soft water conditions though.

Post# 1184761 , Reply# 67   7/12/2023 at 16:03 (260 days old) by GELaundry4ever (Nacogdoches, TX, USA)        
fabric softener

As I pointed out, fabric softener just plain works when used properly. I don't want my clothes smelling sour using vinegar. The truth as, it will never be as good as real fabric softener.

Post# 1184814 , Reply# 68   7/13/2023 at 11:15 (259 days old) by GELaundry4ever (Nacogdoches, TX, USA)        
reall commercial machine

If you want a real commercial machine, Get Speed Queen Equipment.

Post# 1184822 , Reply# 69   7/13/2023 at 12:00 (259 days old) by chetlaham (United States)        

chetlaham's profile picture

I question if that washer is really worth $1,099 given the stark contrast between Maytag and Speed Queen with the Speed Queen being about the same price:

 

 

www.ajmadison.com/cgi-bin...

 

www.build.com/product/summary/17...

 

 

Really makes me wonder.

 

 

 


Post# 1184824 , Reply# 70   7/13/2023 at 12:08 (259 days old) by chetlaham (United States)        
Reall Commercial Machine

chetlaham's profile picture

Put the Maytag Dependable Care back in production. With a 15 year warranty. Then Speed Queen would have some serious competition. Imagine all the bragging rights a 2023 DC model would have on a sales room floor. 

 

 

 


Post# 1196565 , Reply# 71   1/5/2024 at 22:04 by GELaundry4ever (Nacogdoches, TX, USA)        
fabric softener

Plus, fabric softener can be used and diluted and distributed quickly during final real rinse. It leaves your washer smelling fresh when diluted properly.


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