Forgo the onboard water heater and save some money by purchasing Frigidaire's budget-priced Affinity ATF6700F front-loading washer. A built-in water heater is far from a must have, at least in the United States where washers can get heated water from a building's hot water tank. Designed to bring the cold water commonly used to fill washers in Europe up to the properly heated temperature, an onboard heater serves only to boost water to temperature if it enters your washer too cool to be effective.

If you have an abundant supply of hot water from your home's water heater, an onboard water heater may be providing a benefit you will rarely, if ever, use. Unless you have a problem getting water to temperature in your home, it's unlikely you'll miss this feature. In fact, chances are if you've been using a typical top-loading washer for years, you've never had laundry water hotter than what your water heater puts out. We would encourage you to consider an onboard heater only if you have concerns about sanitation or desire deeper, more effective cleaning for heavily soiled whites. If you're among those who rarely run a hot wash, spending extra cash for this feature may not be a particularly wise investment.

The Frigidaire Affinity ATF6700F washer offers just the basics in a large 3.5-cubic-foot tub. It has the practical, energy-efficient features we expect to find on a new front-loading washer. Lacking are expensive upgrades that many of us never use, such as a delay timer and an extra rinse setting. However, an extensive array of cycles are included that make easy work of handling just about every common household fabric. By selecting this model, you won't compromise anything in terms of fabric care. In addition, you get sophisticated and attractive electronic controls.

This versatile Frigidaire model fits where many other washers don't. With a depth of just 27 inches, this model works well behind folding doors, stacked, under the counter or in a small laundry room. It is offered in white or black diamond, and unit can be purchased with a matching pedestal to elevate it for easier loading. A money-saving front-loader, the Frigidaire AFT6700F gets our vote of approval for its cost-effective design, eye-appealing exterior and energy-conscious operation.


Pros: Reasonably priced front-loader that forgoes expensive extras, offer attractive design, is energy conscious
Cons: Lacks delay timer, onboard heater and extra rinse

Warranty
1 year