Purchasing a New Washer

When it’s time to purchase a new washer, you’re going to be faced with more options than ever. Manufacturers have been busy designing appliances that are functional and beautiful. But after all is said and done, you’ll choose between two types – top load or front load.

The traditional top loading washers have been a main stay for years. They are easy to load, use regular detergent and if you’ve forgotten a sock, just open the top and drop it in. Top loaders hold an average of 12 to 16 pounds of laundry. On the down side, they can be noisy and you run the risk of them being off balance, resulting in even more noise. Higher-efficiency top loaders perform better and usually have a larger capacity.

Front load washers are finding their way into more and more households. Since they operate without an agitator or center paddle, they hold larger loads giving you excellent cleaning results for those bulky items, including throw rugs and bedding. The tumbling action is gentle so your clothes last longer.

These washers spin at over 1,000 rpm which is much faster than the top loading machines at 600 to 700 rpm spin cycles. That means your clothes exit the machine with less moisture, reducing the time they’ll spend drying. They are quieter and more energy efficient, using about half as much water and approximately 68 percent less electricity.

If space is a problem, stackable units are available. The controls are in the front of the appliance. They are ideal for a closet, bathroom or under a countertop.

Whatever you choose, always go for the best rated appliance and the one with the largest capacity you can afford. Stainless steel tubs are preferable to porcelain because they don’t rust or chip. And even though the slick looking touch pad controls might be appealing, keep in mind they will be more expensive when it comes time for repairs. That’s good to know, especially if you have children in the home who just love to play with those things.