Equipped with a few less cycles and options than Whirlpool's top-of-the-line Duet machine, the Front-Loading High-Efficiency Washer GHW9150P still has all the efficiency of its higher priced sibling.

You can save about $300 by opting for this model over step-up machine GHW9400P. What you'll be giving up in exchange is two additional wash/rinse temperature combinations and one wash/spin speed setting. The GHW9150P offers only hot/hot, warm/warm, and cold/cold temperature combinations in place of the more expensive model's five temperature combinations. Opt for this machine and you'll also give up the quick-wash setting of the pricier model.

However, if your needs are fairly basic and you're not incredibly picky about water temperature combinations, this model does a superb job of conserving energy while getting clothes clean and limiting fabric wear and tear. It also looks pretty impressive and holds immense loads of dirty laundry. In spite of the fact that this machine is scaled down, it offers an unusually versatile package of high-end features.

A delay start (up to 12 hours), an extended spin, and an extra rinse cycle are all welcome features that come standard on this model. The latest electronic (button and knob) controls are provided and serve to take much of the guesswork out of operating this washer. You simply select the load type and the machine handles the rest -- from water level adjustment, to adding products such as detergent, fabric softener and bleach at just the right time.

An excellent choice with an outstanding reputation, the Whirlpool Duet Front-Loading High-Efficiency Washer GHW9150P takes up a lot of space, so you'll want to ensure you have enough room to accommodate this mega-machine, with or without a pedestal and its matching mega-size dryer.


Pros: Holds immense loads of laundry, highly efficient machine
Cons: Perhaps too large for some homes, lacks some of the features of the top-of-the-line Duet machine

Warranty
1 year