Although top-load washers last longer than front-load washers on average, a front-load will likely need repairs less often over the course of its life. The repair costs typically will be higher, though, due to the many optional wash cycles and extra features.
Because it's harder for water to evaporate, front load washers may have more mold or mildew problems.
“All things considered, in our tests, front-load washing machines tend to be better at stain removal and water removal and efficiency than their top-load counterparts,” said Keith Barry, the top appliance editor at Reviewed.com.
There are two categories of washing machines when determining the average lifespan of these appliances. Traditionally, top-load washers last about 14 years, and they have been used for generations. The average lifespan of front-load washers, on the other hand, is about 11 years.
What's the Verdict? Front load washers are considered superior at cleaning clothes with less water and less wear on your fabrics. Top load washers clean faster and are slightly more ergonomic, so it may come down to the monetary value.
Front-load washing machines are expensive because of sophisticated engineering and expensive building materials. Additionally, they have highly advanced features to ensure better wash, energy, and water efficiency.
If the washer has a minor failure such as a bad lock on the lid or door, it's usually better to repair the washer instead of replacing it. Completing a minor repair on a well-maintained washer with more than 8 years of expected useful life remaining is typically more economical that replacing the washer.
What brand of washing machine is most reliable? Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung are the most reliable brands of washers. Yale Appliance found that less than 7% of the sales of these units required servicing.
Older Appliances Were Designed to Last
Another reason that older appliances tend to last longer is that they were designed to be repaired, rather than replaced. The parts were simple and easy to fix, so people could keep their appliances running for much longer than they can today.
A top loader also comes with the convenience of being able to add items mid-cycle and saves you from having to bend down to load and unload clothes. This type of washer is also cheaper to buy upfront, although uses more water and energy.
Front-load washing machines are more energy-efficient across the board than top-load washing machines. They score far higher on water usage alone – your standard front-load washer uses five fewer gallons of water per load, or about 2,000 fewer gallons per year.
Repairs may also be higher over the long run, than with those associated with top-load washers. Problems with mold and odors have been occurring in some models since these were introduced, but may not be typical of all front-loaders.
Comforters: Instead of lugging your king-size comforter to a laundromat, you can wash it in any washer with a claimed capacity of at least 4.5 cubic feet, according to our tests. It's best washed by itself, for better agitation and rinsing.
2023 Most Durable Front Load Washing Machines
That's significant! Currently, LG is leading the market in manufacturing reliable, long-lasting front-load washers. In fact, LG takes the top 6 spots in Consumer Reports for reliability ratings followed by Speed Queen.
Best for Reliability: Front-Load Washer
Although top-load washers last longer than front-load washers on average, a front-load will likely need repairs less often over the course of its life. The repair costs typically will be higher, though, due to the many optional wash cycles and extra features.
That being said, it's still possible to find good washing machines that have been built to manage thousands of loads – which, depending on usage levels, can last as long as 20 or 30 years.
Q: How long do LG washers and dryers last? A: LG washers and dryers will last for 10 to 15 years. Q: What is the lifespan of a Samsung washer and dryer? A: With the proper upkeep and maintenance, Samsung washers and dryers can last up to 14 years.
If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 on it, a repair may be the better financial choice.
In the heat and dampness of your washer, this scum makes a happy home for mildew, bacteria, and mold. These unwelcome guests are the source of the stink. The smelly washer situation is compounded by the fact that front-load washers use rubber gaskets around the washing machine door to stop water leaks.
A washing machine with a capacity of 6-7kg should be ideal for a family of four, In case of fewer people in your house, opt for a smaller machine, And if you're a bigger family, then choose a larger washing machine.
If you use a front-load washing machine's detergent for a top-load washing machine, you won't be able to produce enough lather to remove stains from your clothes. A front-load washing machine uses a tenth of the water needed in a top-load machine means it needs a detergent that creates less lather.