Whirlpool's collection of Duet washers, including the highly featured WFW9400, have taken the United States laundry market by storm. Currently the best selling of all front-load models to Whirlpool, these attractive performance-oriented Duet machines have a lot to offer, but alas are not quite perfect.

You can, however, get pretty close to perfect results by following a few simple rules. First off be prepared to use HE (high efficiency) detergent in the Duet WFW9400. This model is a high-efficiency washer that does not perform well over the long term when operated with conventional detergent. This washer uses far less water than a typical washer and for this reason requires a low-sudsing detergent. Suds left behind can encourage mold build-up in the machine. Other ways to prevent mold from forming include the occasional running of loads of clothing in both hot water and water that includes bleach. Finally, leaving the door ajar when the machine is not in use will allow air to circulate, further discouraging mold growth.

Popular for much more than attractiveness, the Whirlpool WFW9400 offers a system that makes very efficient use of both water and electricity. While doing so, it meets the federal Energy Star guidelines designed to minimize environmental damage and costs less to operate than conventional washing machines. While these are certainly important considerations, consumers are also very impressed with this model's large capacity. With a 3.8-cubic-foot interior, this washer handles some of the biggest loads imaginable, making it possible to get through the family laundry that much faster. When paired with a matching high-capacity dryer, laundry can be completed in markedly less time.

With the cost of a pair in the $2500 range, you might expect that the Duets appeal only to those at high-income levels. Interestingly enough, a large percentage of households whose incomes are below $50,000 range have purchased these units. It appears that a keen interest in improved ways to complete the laundry is the common factor amongst owners -- not income level.

Of the Whirlpool Duet models, the WFW9400 has the most cycles and is available in the widest range of colors. Color selections include white, white with blue trim, biscuit, black and diamond dust -- a silver metallic.

You will want to make sure you have enough room to accommodate this Duet, since it is larger than traditional washing machines. Take care to measure height, as well as width and depth. If space allows, you may wish to consider the purchase of an optional pedestal. Pedestals raise the washer to a more comfortable loading height and, depending on size, can add from $150 to $229 to the cost of the machine. In addition to the pedestal, Whirlpool offers a variety of coordinating storage and work surface accessories to enhance the laundry experience.

The WFW9400 is not recommended for installation on a second floor due to the vibration it causes. For upstairs installations, consider instead the Duet Sport WFW8500S.

You may have heard about reported problems with the door-locking mechanism on Duet washers. Following some changes in the design, the locks no longer are prone to failure, so this should not be a concern with the current WFW9400.

Offered at a significantly higher price than conventional washing machines, this newer style washer appears to have all the bugs worked out of it. With proper care and attention to detail, you can rest assured of its performance. At this writing, one of the most successful front-loaders to be launched in the United States, Whirlpool's WFW9400 is an efficient, high-capacity model with a great look -- and plenty of fans.


Pro: Large capacity, attractive, front-loader makes very efficient use of water and electricity
Con: Proper performance requires use of HE detergent and occasional washes using bleach and/or hot water

Warranty
1 year