Homeowners who have a hard time deciding whether to buy a top-loading or front-loading washer should remember four features. These comprise the appliance’s agitation, capacity, cycle and drum material levels.
In some cases, buying replacing an old appliance can be quite expensive. It only costs at least $50 to repair a washer, but the actual price will depend on your location. If you live in Utah, the cost of washer repair in Salt Lake City will depend on the type of problem. You should call a handyman as soon as you notice signs of leaks and standing water around the washer.
Front-Loading Washer Features
A front-loading washing machine will usually have small fins on all sides. This is perfect for those who want gentle agitation for delicate fabrics, although this requires longer cycle time, unlike a top-loading washing machine. Front-loading washers aren’t a good choice for those with back problems, as it can be difficult to bend down, load and unload laundry. You may need to put it at an elevated height.
Despite these drawbacks, front-loading washers are in-demand among homeowners who want a modern set of appliances. You should expect to spend between $700 and $2,000 when buying a new one. Homeowners should think about having an extended warranty for their new appliance. It’s quite expensive to repair a broken front-loading machine compared to a top-loading washer.
Modern Top-Loaders
Top-loading washers also have become more modernized, as manufacturers replaced the central agitator at the bottom of the tub with impeller agitator. If you’re looking for a more affordable choice, you have more choices with top-loading machines that start at $500. Heavy-duty plastic tubs are the most common, but these may not be suitable for high-speed cycles. It may shorten the longevity of your clothes at the same time.
Take note that some models have deep tubs that make it difficult to unload laundry after every wash. Clothes also take longer to dry when using a top-loading appliance. For this reason, some experts advise people to buy a front-loading machine.
Buying High-Efficiency
Conventional top-loaders use at least 20 gallons of water for each load during the wash and rinse cycle. On the other hand, a high-efficiency front-loader only uses around seven gallons per load. If buying a cheaper one is more important for now, look for new top-loading machines that have energy- and water-saving features.
You should also consider replacing washers every 10 years or even earlier. Old ones tend to work harder over time, and these consume more power than necessary. If it’s been used for less than six years, repairs are a more sensible choice.
The size of your household will be an important factor for choosing the right type of washing machine. A growing family will definitely need an appliance with a bigger load capacity. You should spend extra on product warranty in case of unexpected problems. In case it already expired, a repair service may be a cheaper option especially if it’s still new.
