Are you buying a new washing machine but feel overwhelmed by all of your choices? We don’t blame you. The options on the market right now are endless! High-efficiency, low-water usage, agitator, non-agitator, steam wash, ENERGY STAR certified, super speed… the list goes on.
But first, before you can even decide on those specific features, you have to answer one question: Should you get a front-loading or top-loading washer?
For most homeowners, All Brands Appliance Repair recommends a front-loading washing machine. It’s more efficient when it comes to energy consumption, hot water usage, and drying time. It also gets your clothes cleaner and only requires minimal maintenance to prevent mold and mildew. Unless you’re in the aging population or have back problems, a front-loading unit will serve you well.
For a more detailed breakdown of the pros and cons of front-loading washers, keep reading!
Benefits of a Front-Loader
- Cleans better: Several controlled tests conducted by Consumer Reports, Reviewed.com, and CNET show that front-loading washers are better at cleaning and removing stains from laundry than top-loading washers.
- Conserves water: Front-loaders use significantly less water than top-loaders–even high-efficiency top-loaders. In fact, tests estimate that front-loaders use five less gallons per cycle than top-loaders, which amounts to roughly 2,000 gallons per year!
- Saves energy: Not only are front-loaders more energy-efficient in and of themselves, but they also reduce the extra amount of energy needed to heat your water and run your dryer. This is because they use less water overall, and they have faster spin cycles that remove more water from laundry and thus cut down on drying time.
- Stacks conveniently: You can maximize floor space by stacking your dryer on top of your front-loading washer! For this to work, you have to buy them in a matching set and install a bracket-mounting kit for safety.
Drawbacks of a Front-Loader:
- Requires hunching over: If you have chronic back problems or are a senior, bending down to reach into the drum of a front-loading washer may be physically challenging. However, special pedestals can be installed underneath your unit to raise its height and ease the strain on your back.
- Is prone to mold/mildew: The design of front-loading washing machines makes them prone to mild and mildew growth. You must be diligent about wiping out the door and gasket between every use and using the correct detergent in the correct amount.
- Overloads easily: In front-loaders, the bearings that allow your washer’s drum to spin freely can easily be strained under too much weight. To avoid prematurely wearing out these bearings, you should wash heavy loads sparingly and mostly stick to medium-size loads. This may mean you have to do laundry more frequently.
As you can see, the drawbacks of a front-loader are minor when compared to its amazing benefits. That’s why we believe most homeowners will be happy with their purchase of a front-loading washing machine.
Happy shopping!
Source: McCabe, L. (2016, October 25). “Should You Get a Front-Load or Top-Load Washing Machine?” Wirecutter. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/should-you-get-a-front-or-top-load-washing-machine/
