Washer Buying Guide: Buying a Washing Machine Tips
If you’ve decided that your washer is no longer economical to repair, it may be time to invest in a new one.
But with all the available options, how do you decide which washer to buy? Take a look at our list washer buying tips. These tips are straight from the technicians who repair washers every day!
What to consider when buying a new washer.
Different people have different needs when it comes to laundry appliances. Do you wash clothes often? Are you concerned about water usage? Make sure to keep these important things in mind when buying a washing machine:
- Your Budget.
- Average Load Size (Big families should look for Large Capacity washers).
- Frequency of Use
- Washer Efficiency
- Stain Removal Capability
Buying a Washing Machine Tips
Top Load Washers
When buying a washing machine, don’t count out top load washers. Some experts believe they actually clean clothes better than front load washers. If budget is your main concern, this may be the best option for you, as they typically cost less than front load models. Top loaders have been around for so many years, that they have come to be very reliable.
Samsung’s 5.0 cubic foot model is a great top load washer. There are many cycle options to choose from and it can hold a large amount of clothing.
If money is your concern, check out the 3.5 cubic foot top load washer from Amana. It is economically priced, yet still delivers.
Pros of Top-Load Washing Machines
A top-load washing machine has several benefits, including cost-effectiveness, reliability, the ability to add clothes mid-cycle, and larger capacity. They’re usually less expensive than their front-load counterparts, making them a more budget-friendly option. They are also known for their dependability and longevity, making them a good investment. In addition, the top-loading design allows for the addition of forgotten clothes mid-cycle, making them more convenient for busy households and they often have a larger capacity than front-load machines, which is ideal for families or those who frequently wash large loads of laundry.
Cons of Top Load Washers
Top-load washing machines have some drawbacks as well. The agitator in the middle of the drum can sometimes tangle clothing, leading to creases and knots. It can also be difficult to reach items at the bottom of the machine, especially for shorter people or those with physical limitations. Additionally, these machines tend to extract less water from clothes during the spin cycle, resulting in longer drying times. Finally, the agitation can also create more lint, meaning that you may need to clean the lint filter more frequently. Overall, while top-load machines have some advantages, it’s important to consider these drawbacks before making a purchase.
Front Load Washers
When considering buying a washing machine, you definitely need to research front load washers. There are many HE models that can save you money on water, and even cut down on drying time because they remove more water from the clothing than top load models. Many people feel that front load washing machines remove stains better than top load models.
The Kenmore Elite 41072 front load washing machine is great for large families. It has a capacity of 5.2 cubic feet.
Whirlpool makes a very affordable 4.5 cubic foot front load washer that you can find for under $1000.
Pros of Front Load Washers
Front-load washing machines offer several benefits, including energy and water efficiency, optimal stain removal, gentleness on clothes, and top storage availability. These machines use less water and energy than top-load machines, making them more environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run. They also offer superior cleaning performance, with drum designs that allow for better stain removal and a gentler wash for your clothes. Additionally, many front-load machines have a built-in storage pedestal, allowing you to store detergents, fabric softeners, and other laundry essentials directly beneath the machine. This makes it easier to keep your laundry area organized and clutter-free.
Cons of Front Load Washers
Front-load washing machines have a higher price point, longer cycle times, smaller capacity, and the inability to add clothes mid-cycle. They’re often more expensive than top-load machines, making them a less budget-friendly option. Additionally, front-load machines generally have longer wash cycles, which can be inconvenient for those who are in a hurry. The drum size is also typically smaller than top-load machines, meaning that you may have to do laundry more frequently or in smaller batches. Finally, the door-mounted design of front-load machines means that you can’t add forgotten clothes once the cycle has started, which can be frustrating for some users.
Extra Rinse Cycle
If you decide to buy a front load washer, you may want to make sure that it has an option for an extra rinse cycle. Front load washers typically use less water than top load washers, so a little extra rinse can be beneficial. This is especially true if you are sensitive to laundry detergents. Running a second rinse cycle can also help remove more pet hair from your clothes.
The Maytag MHW8100DC is a large capacity front load washer with the option for an extra rinse cycle.
Stainless Steel Tub
Another one of our best tips for buying a washing machine is to look into those with stainless steel tubs. This style of tub can spin much faster, which in turn removes more water from your laundry. This also cuts down the drying time. Washers with stainless steel tubs look pretty sharp too!
Samsung’s WA52J8700AP with stainless steel tub is a very popular top load washer.
Automatic Dispensers
This is actually of the best features of newer washing machines. Automatic dispensers release laundry detergent, fabric softener, or bleach at the optimal time for your selected cycle or fabric type. What’s even better is that some models can hold multiple loads worth of detergent, so you don’t have to measure it out every time.
Whirlpool’s 4.2 cubic foot front load washer has a great Load & Go System.
If you need more tips for buying a washing machine, call or visit us at Caesar’s Appliance Service. We’re happy to help you determine the best washer for your specific needs.