The Basics
If you're interested in stepping up to a new front-loading washer, chances are your interest in this type of washer has to do with energy efficiency, cost of operation and the exciting design options these machines offer for the well-appointed home. All are excellent reasons to consider one of these products.
First of all, purchase of a front-loading model will require a substantial investment. You will want to be prepared to spend $700 or more on a washer -- up to double what a traditional top-loading machine could cost. Why do these machines cost so much? Front-loaders are expensive for a number of reasons. Since they are relatively new to the market, the cost of research, engineering and the setting up of new production lines are reflected in the cost. As time goes on, prices are expected to decrease-- slightly at first and then a bit more rapidly as time passes. Already we are seeing this begin to happen on many of the original designs that entered the market about 10 years ago.
The good news is that as prices have started to decline, the bugs in these early models have been detected and are now being addressed by manufacturers. Early problems included the failure of some electronic components and ineffective seals that led to mold growth. Most of the machines that had design flaws have been improved. Preventing mold growth can be as simple as following the manufacturer's directions and leaving the door open for ventilation when the machine is not in use.
In spite of these earlier problems, sales have been strong -- so much so that appliance companies continue to bring additional front-loading machines to the market. You can now find front-load washers that are specialized for everything from upstairs use to stacking and under-counter installation. Models are offered in a variety of colors that lend themselves to a decorative design in the laundry room. Many companies now offer models to fit specific budgets, although we still wouldn't consider any of these options inexpensive.
Features on the front-loaders have also improved. While early models couldn't be opened during a cycle, most models now offer an add-a-garment feature. With this feature, you can stop the machine to add a forgotten item without risking the escape of water onto the floor.
How To Shop
The advantages to these machines are many. Energy efficiency, minimal water usage and excellent washing results are just some of the benefits of the front-loaders. When shopping for energy-efficient machines, look first for the blue Energy Star logo. Then compare machines by reading the yellow energy guide stickers. These stickers will help you get an idea of where a machine stands in relation to the energy usage of other machines.
Equally important to the energy efficiency of a front-loader is its spin speed. High spin speeds of 1000-1200 rpm are not uncommon. The greater the spin speed, the more capable the machine is of removing residual moisture. Garments that retain less moisture dry faster -- and cost less to dry. Using a front-load washer will allow you to match wash times more closely to drying times, thus eliminating laundry room back-up. Look also for lower spin speeds. These will be required to achieve the best results on delicate items and hand washables.
Improved features on these front-loaders make it easier than ever to effectively do the laundry. Simply setting a machine for a fabric type, such as whites or delicates, results in an automatic selection of run time, cycle type, temperature, spin speed and water level setting. The guesswork is all but eliminated because microprocessors and sensor technology determine the proper settings. Some of the most expensive front-loaders contain their own water heaters. This ensures the best temperature control and results in an optimally performing machine. Other features include convenient delay timers and informative indicator lights. These further add to the convenience of using a front-load washer.
Most of the major appliance companies now offer at least one front-loading model. Whirlpool is garnering most of the sales in this country with either its Duet line of products or with its models that are sold under the Sears Kenmore HE label. Similarly priced are models from LG Electronics, a Korean manufacturer whose products are quickly gaining favor. These brands are ideal selections for large laundry rooms and are often available with a variety of pedestals and options for laundry storage. At the upper end of the price spectrum, you'll find models that are the favorites of the self-proclaimed laundry geeks. These models include excellent, reliable and expensive machines from Miele, Asko, Bosch, Euro-Tech and KitchenAid. For space-restricted areas, look to the European manufacturers for space-saving options such as built-in, under-counter and closet installations. If a more moderately priced model is to your liking, consider machines from Maytag, Amana, GE, Siemens, Ariston and Frigidaire.
Although still relatively new, front-loading washing machines have been around long enough to develop a track record and are now becoming quite common. It is now possible to purchase a high-efficiency front-loading machine that offers plenty of options and long-term reliability at a range of prices that will fit many budgets.
