Comments on: Spending Money to Save Money: Front-Loading Washing Machine

By: Maureen

Maureen — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 03:00:44 +0000

I just wanted to say that 7 years ago I purchased a Whirlpool Duet and I beleive it is as functional as you stated above, you however did not mention the lifespan of these frontload washers. We purchased ours in Dec of 2003, making it now 7 years old. It does not function as it should anymore due to the gasket on the front of the drum has worn out and the machine now leaks and sounds like it is walking across the floor. I am sure it is the gasket because I have found pieces of the worn gasket in the laundry!
I have contacted a appliance service and they gave me an estimate of $321.00 to repair it. This is A sight unseen estimate, meaning it could possible cost more.
If it is going to cost that much now only after 7 years of owning it. The question now is should we repair it and take the expense and the risk that something else may go soon enough or should we purchase a new machine. Also, should we purchase one that is not A Whirlpool. I also had an appliance salesman give me a lifespan on frontload washers today as 7 years without his knowing about my problem yet.
I seriously think 7 year lifespan on a washing machine is not a good deal with what the original purchase price is, even with the 5 year warranty, Seems to me they have designed them to fall apart after 5 years.

By: Kristen

Kristen — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 20:22:12 +0000

Alas, I was so sad when our front-loader started leaking after 9 years and had to be replaced. It’s hard to buy one reconditioned, too. If a top-loader lasts for 20, does it still make sense to buy a front-loader?

By: PF Buzz

PF Buzz — Fri, 30 May 2008 23:28:30 +0000

Personal Finance Buzz…

Your story was featured in PF Buzz! Here is the link to vote it up and promote it: http://www.pfbuzz.com/General/Spending-Money-to-Save-Money-Front-Loading-Washing-Machine…

By: Matt Bowgren

Matt Bowgren — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 15:48:47 +0000

To calculate the cost savings for your dryer, as a result of your more efficient washing machine, consider this:

The energy use of dryers has not changed much over the years, so a newer dryer won’t save much money.

The one thing that has changed is that newer dryers use moisture sensors or temperature sensors to stop drying clothes rather than a timer. A dryer with a moisture sensor will typically save about 15% while a dryer with a temperature sensor will save about 10%.

The average annual cost to operate a dryer is $85. The average homeowner keeps their dryer for 10-12 years but they actually have an average 18 year life span.

If you are running a dry cycle that takes half the time as with your old washing machine, congratulations! You typically save $42.50 a year on electric costs.

I work with Whirlpool and of course applaud your choice of the Whirlpool Duet, wishing it will bring you many years of savings and enjoyment.

If you want more information on energy savings, check out http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/home/appliances/index.html

For more information on Whirlpool products, visit http://www.whirlpool.com.

By: Becky@FamilyandFinances

Becky@FamilyandFinances — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 17:07:01 +0000

I love my front-load washer and dryer! I’m actually supposed to fill my washer up with clothes, it’s supposed to clean them better when it’s full. That was a weird one for me!

It was also weird that the washer takes longer than the dryer. My old, ancient dryer took hours to dry a load of laundry – very bad for the environment and my electric bill.

I’m glad you’re enjoying yours!