We are writing a few articles to help you during these tough times. The focus will be on critiquing less expensive replacement appliances.
Less expensive does not mean without features or buying unreliable equipment.
These are solid products. We don't actively promote all of the washers listed below because many of you reading this live outside of Boston.
So, let's get started with the basics first.
There are three types of washers. You have the traditional top load, the hybrid (HE) top load, and the front load washer.
Let me explain their advantages and differences.
1. Top Load: This machine has been around literally forever. Our parents and grandparents used top load washers. The drum fills with water, and the agitator stirs the clothes and detergent to clean.
It is the least expensive to buy, is reliable, but uses more water, energy, and detergent than a front-load with smaller capacity.
2. Front Load: Front-load washers are newer since the early Maytags in the late 1990s. Front loads have greater capacity but are much cheaper to operate in terms of energy, water, and electricity.
3. Hybrid Top Load: This machine is a combination of the two. It loads from the top but is larger without an agitator like a front load. Hybrids don’t seem to clean like the other two. In terms of price, it is equivalent to a better front load.
If you want to buy an inexpensive washer, then the top load is your best choice for the price. However, you will have a payback of operational savings in 1-3 years, depending on how you often you wash.
Most Reliable Top Load Washers
| Service Qty | Shipped Qty | Service Ratio | |
| Amana | 0 | 109 | 0.00% |
| LG Electronics | 1 | 28 | 3.57% |
| Whirlpool | 15 | 253 | 5.93% |
| Maytag | 44 | 204 | 21.57% |
| Speed Queen | 83 | 178 | 46.63% |
| Grand Total | 146 | 786 | 18.58% |
Most Reliable Front Load Washers
| Service Qty | Shipped Qty | Service Ratio | |
| Whirlpool | 20 | 350 | 5.71% |
| GE Appliances | 1 | 15 | 6.67% |
| LG Electronics | 161 | 2270 | 7.09% |
| Samsung | 27 | 349 | 7.74% |
| Maytag | 251 | 659 | 38.09% |
| Electrolux | 13 | 13 | 100.00% |
| Grand Total | 473 | 3656 | 12.94% |
Front loads are 3 out of the top 4 most reliable washers. However, it is much more expensive to fix a front-load versus a top load.
A word about repair: Service is a big problem in this industry. Most companies do not service what they sell.
Many of these brands are close in price and repair rates. You should find out what is the most easily serviced in your area.
Some of these we do not promote or actively carry. However, they are still good alternatives.
Feature Highlights:
Feature Highlights:
GE is a bit larger with a better spin to extract more water. However, Whirlpool has a delicate cycle and is incredibly reliable. Then again, it is the same design for over 40 years (at least).
This is a good value if Electrolux has sorted out some repair issues on their washer and their dryer (lint screen). We do not sell Electrolux products at Yale.
Feature Highlights:
Samsung has good reliability, capacity, and is the least expensive washer with steam functionality. Steam is used to power out tough stains.
Feature Highlights:
One of the most popular machines with a bit better spin than Samsung. You also have Wi-Fi, so you can control this machine by your telephone with basic functions like Turning on/off and seeing time remaining.
Normally, I would say wait for promotional holidays like Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, and Black Friday. You can save 10-35% off during one of these times.
As I write this during the outbreak, the machines listed above are the best if you need a low-priced washer now.
Here are some other approaches to buying low-priced appliances:
I would stay away from used appliances for any long term purchase. You should also make sure that scratched or dented appliance still has the warranty.
Choosing a front-load or a top-load washer will be your biggest decision to make. You can save money, but there are better operational costs to a front load washer.
After that decision, look at reliability and features. Check service in your area to mitigate any future issues.
Additional Resources
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