Sunday, December 20, 2009

Do front loading washing machines really save on water and electric bills?

We just bought a home and are trying to decide on whether to get a front or top loading washing machine. What are some pros and cons of top/front loading washing machines? What are your experiences? Thanks so much.Do front loading washing machines really save on water and electric bills?
Yeah, it is actually amazing when you look in and see the clothes washing, they are merely just ';soaked'; with water not sloshing around in gallons of it. And yes, as another user said...very little detergent is needed.


For instance, when you wash your new babies' clothes, you will only need to put a couple tablespoons of Dreft (assuming that is what you use :) in for a very large load.


My favorite feature is you can barely hear them running, even during the spin cycle. So, laundry during babies' nap time is a good option. One more thing is that the Kenmore brands have a feature called ';Sensor Dry'; and it knows when all the clothes are completely dry. So there is no need to scorch the crap outa them.


I think they are a really good investment, although I have not seen much of a difference on my energy/water bills. But the tax incentive was nice...ask about that when you buy them!Do front loading washing machines really save on water and electric bills?
They use 50 percent less water and less detergent due to the difference in physics compared to a conventional top loader.





They can also wash more clothes per load and wash things you could never put into a conventional top loader, like comforters, etc..





Steam wash setting is something conventional top loaders don't have either.





They also cause much less wear and tear on your clothes


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Cons:


However, the initial cost of a front loader is way more than what you'd spend on a conventional top loader. ( 3 times as much). If you are a bachelorette or a bachelor it would probably take you more than 10 years to see the savings, based on difference in energy use. And 10 years is probably longer than a front loader will last, sadly to say. Their life span is not as long as conventional top loaders. Something to think about when you are shelling out $1200 for a laundry machine





They have also been subject to the risk of being maintenance nightmares. When is the last time you remember calling the repair man for your conventional top loader?





My advice to you if you buy a front loader, check the warranty, and buy the extended warranty. And check the brand reputation and product reviews
I've owned both a top and front loader. I much rather prefer the front loader. It does use much less water because it doesn't have to fill the entire machine. It's hard to say if it dropped my power bill because I used the machines in separate houses. Compared to the front loader I can't think of any pros for the top loader.
They use less water but also save the wear and tear on your clothing.I can wash a load of towels and they are almost dry when you remove them from the washer.Front loaders require a very stable floor and will vibrate on a simple plywood floor.
Less water, electricity and detergent are needed.


They are quieter and there is less wear and tear on garments since there is no agitation


Only con is many owners complain of a stale smell. Putting white vinegar in the rinse with your towels solves that problem
They are more efficient, but you probably will never make up for the difference in price with the energy usage. Also the lifespan is much shorter for the frontloaders.
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