Front loader washers compared to top loaders

[go400]

I read a report that stated front loaders consume 48% less energy per year than top loaders and get the cloths dryer.
 However there are some negatives:
 1) they run generally twice as long and do not get badly soiled cloths clean
 2) they will cost more to maintain and will need total replacement after more than 6 years of operation
 3) The 3 phase motor is less than 1/3 hp and the unit will drop out if too many cloths are put in.
 4) they usually are more difficult to repair and it will take longer to find a qualified service person
 5) More prone to pump failures and lint clogs

 Any thoughts on this.
 

[AJ]

Back when I did sales along with repairs it was easy to sell front loaders by bringing up how much money they would save vs using a top loader.

Then when I would go out later to repair the same front loaders that I sold earlier I would think to myself as I made out the bills, "There goes any money they saved."

Customers seem to like how their new front loaders clean compared to their old washers through.

I do see more pump failures on front loaders, but looks how small them pumps and their little motors are compared to the old belt drive or direct drive pumps.

[go400]

The Whirlpool Duet has a much more robust motor and motor drive. Measured high speed spin current ( total single phase into the motor drive) in excess of 4 amps, while others struggle at current over 3 amps.
 

[bigbuck]

Probably top loaders due to last for 15 to 20 years. I have a 2003 whirlpool duet , only use 2 to 4 tablespoons of regular detergent in her since she was new. Only problem replaced fill valve about 6 months ago, due to slowly filling washer when not used.(well water) . Other then that she has been good. Being a technician & so many baskets & tubs I have changed ( only service plans) if they pay for the repair its $1200.00  just for parts.


So with the failures due to the bearings or the spider (pot metal junk) . I 'll go with top loaders.