Today’s washers offer so many options that at times it may seem overwhelming to make the right purchase. Every family’s needs are different, so it is wise to consider all the available features and styles.
There are two types of washing machines – top loading and front loading. Each with its own set of pluses and minuses. While a top loader may not be as energy efficient as a front loader, a front loader generally has a very long wash cycle.
In order to make the best decision, we should first determine what is required in terms of capacity, water efficiency, energy efficiency, noise-level, length of wash cycle, programs, performance, and convenience.
Capacity is the most important consideration. You will have to elect a machine that fits the needs of your family. A family of four will need a machine that can at least handle 10 pounds (6-7 kg).
Now consider water efficiency, which is determined by how efficient the machine is in term of water usage. The Water Factor (WF) measures water efficiency in gallons of water consumed per cubic foot. The lower the WF the more water efficient the clothes washer is. The front-loaders provide substantial secondary energy savings by using less water and spinning more water out of clothes, requiring shorter, less energy-intensive drying cycles. On average front-loaders reduce water use by about 40%, so the average family can save about 7,000 gallons of water.
When it comes to energy efficiency front-loading washing machines also rule supreme. Of the existing 190 Energy Star-approved washers, only a handful are top-loaders, and even these high-efficiency models fall behind the front-loading models for energy usage. The most energy efficient front-load washer brands include Whirlpool, Frigidaire, Amana, LG and Samsung. These front-load washers can be up to 165% more efficient than the federal standard. The best top loaders are only about 90% more efficient than the federal standard.
Noise-level is determined by the amount of noise a machine will make during the spin cycle. The biggest complaints about front-loading washing machines concern vibration and noise. If the washing machine is close to the family room you may want to look for washing machines that specifically advertise their low noise level.
Length of wash cycle is determined by the length of the washing cycle. If you are always on the run, you don’t want a lengthy cycle; the top-loading washers might be best.
Performance is definitely of utmost importance when it comes to selecting the right washing machine. Consumer Reports and other groups give front-loading washing machines top marks for performance. In fact, out of 43 front-loading washers reviewed in 2010, consumer reports gave five excellent ratings for washing performance, included were Whirlpool, Miele and Maytag. If you are investing in a top-loader you don’t want to go cheap. Cheap top-loaders are known to fray fabrics and are tough on clothes. Front-loaders earned superior marks in performance versus top-loaders.
When it comes to programs decide what you want your washing machine to automate and what you want programs to do. Which of the features can you live without? Programs include spin speed, cycle strength and hand washing cycles. How much do you wish to interact with your washer? Newer models can determine the size of the load, the proper cycle to use, and even how dirty your laundry is.
Despite some of the drawbacks, top-loading washing machines earn points for convenience. A top loading washing machine is much easier to load and unload without having to reach into the machine. In addition, you can add clothes to traditional top-loading machines during the wash cycle. On front-loaders, the door locks to keep from spilling water on the floor.
Let’s review the benefits and negatives of each:
Top Loaders
Benefits:
Negatives:
Front Loaders
Benefits:
Negatives:
Before making the final decision, be sure to visit your local showroom and speak to one of our sales experts.
