recommendations for front-loading washing machines

We have decided on a front-loading machine, now we are trying to figure out the pros/cons of each. Any feedback on specific brands/models? Thanks!

 

Maytag Neptune is fantastic.

 

...after the class action law suit had them replace all of the boots around the door because of a mold problem.

 

We just bought the Kenmore Elite HE3T. It is a "Quick Pick" from Consumer Reports. The HE4T rated the highest in their front loader ratings.

The main differences between the HE3T and the HE4T is the number of "pre-set settings" buttons on the front, the spin cycle RPM, the sound insulation, and the wash cycle time.

The 4T has a little higher RPM spin cycle that we thought might have more of a "shaking" affect since the laundry room is on the second floor. It also has several more pre set options that will mostly go unused.

The 4T has "Quiet Pack 9" sound insulation versus "Quiet Pack 4" on the 3T.

We didn't think the differences were worth the extra couple hundred dollars.

Also, when I compared the 4T and 3T on Consumer Reports, it says that the wash cycle time is longer on the 4T at 95 Minutes vs. the 3T at 70 Minutes. This must be for the Heavy Duty Cycle as when we hit the "Regular Wash Cycle" button the timer display shows 35 Minutes.

The Washer is REALLY quiet! You have to look through the window to see if it is running. You can hear it when it spins but still a lot quieter than our old Top Loader. Also it doesn't shake the upstairs of our house like the Top Loader did.

One last thing - the HE3T is also available as an HE3. The HE3T is $100 more and has a heater to make the hot water even hotter for the "Sanitary Cycle" which is for towels, babies clothes, etc. I can't remember the temperature, etc. It is supposed to be used when you have laundry that you want to kill the bacteria.

Very nice washer. We like the push buttons over the dials on the competitors models too.

We also bought the 13" drawer/pedestal.

When I was doing my research, the Maytags seemed to be getting a lot of bad reviews as far as reliability.

Good Luck.

EDIT - I just looked at the Consumer Reports review for the Maytag Neptune and it has the same ratings as the HE3T but has a slightly longer wash time at 85 mins versus 70 minutes. They also said that the Maytag front loaders are "repair prone" and reliability is a concern.

 

Yup even after that. In fact, I didn't even know about the suit. I called them to schedule a repair call for the mildew smell, and they told me about the suit. I am sure it was part of the deal. Anyway, they came out replaced the boot, saw the bill for $350, and I didn't have to pay anything.

It has been fine ever since.

 

Did you get in in the time frame? I didn't know about the suit until it had expired. Can I still get mine replaced on their nickel?

 

I am not sure, mine was replaced about 6 months ago, if that helps you.

We originally had purchased the stacked version of the washer dryer Neptune. That was terrible, it shook like you wouldn't believe.

One of the advertised features of the Neptune is it strong spin cycle. This in effect eliminates more water before the clothes go to the dryer. Therefore, reducing the drying time. (by the way, this feature is very effective)

We switched to the side by side model and the problem went away.

 

Thanks to all for the suggestions/feedback/etc. This will help us a lot!

 

just went through the whole trade study. We ended up with the Kenmore HE3t washer and HE4 dryer. The very first load we did was the equivalent of three loads in the old top-loader!

I would also look at the "new" GE front loaders and the Whirlpool Duets. The Kenmores are made by Whirlpool. If you haven't gone shopping yet, the best place to see most models and brands is the Sears at Fair Oaks. Largest selection but you may be able to find better prices elsewhere.

The main complaint with front loaders is vibration as they spin at over 1000 RPM. If you have a laundry room on the second floor, it might be an issue. This is a high frequency vibration that can travel throughout the house (versus the banging of an unbalanced top-loader).

 

In my last house I had the Neptune. I thought I liked it until I moved here and bought an LG. LOVE IT. Uses much less water, much less soap and has more features.

 

Here's some info:
http://www.maytagfrontloadsettlement.com/index.html