On average, top-loaders last a few years longer than front-loaders, but most washing machines can last 10 years or more, depending on use and maintenance.
They clean better and are gentler on clothes. The agitator in a top load machine can be harsh on clothes and fabrics, causing more wear and tear and stretching of delicate fabrics. Washing your clothes with a front load washer can help lengthen the life of frequently washed items.
The lifespan of a standard top-load washer is 14 years while a high-efficiency washer is only 11 years. But why? The standard top-load washing machine is typically the least expensive type of washer on the market.
The Cons: Higher initial cost: Front-load washing machines tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to top-loaders. However, the energy and water savings over time can help offset this initial investment. Longer cycle times: Compared to top-loaders, front-load washers often have longer cycle periods.
Most notably, they're prone to mold, mildew, and odor. That's because the rubber gasket around the door, which keeps water inside during a wash cycle, traps this water after a cycle and creates a damp environment that allows mold and mildew to thrive.
If you run several loads of laundry per week, your machine will likely have a shorter lifespan than those used only once a week. There are two main types of washers: front-loading and top-loading. Front-load washers last about 10 to 12 years, while top-load washing machines usually last up to 14 years.
Top-load washers last longer than front-load washers on average. And, the repair costs for a front-load washer will typically be higher due to the many optional wash cycles and extra features.
Factors to Consider
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 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.
In general, front end loaders typically last from 10-15 years with regular maintenance and proper care (including an annual inspection). However, the brand and model of your front end loader can also play a role in its longevity.
Front-loaders do it best, because the tumbling motion puts gravity to work, knocking clothes against each other, scrubbing themselves against the abrasive elements in detergent, and against features of the drum or wash tub, all with more energy than the twisting motion of a top-loader can muster.
Although a top-load washer may last longer, a front-load washer will likely need repair 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.
Front load washers are designed to use less water, even though they have slightly longer cycle times. Front loaders also often have faster spinning speeds that expel more water from clothing, so drying times tend to be shorter.
Benefits of a Top-Load Washer
As the more traditional and standard option, these appliances cost less than their counterparts. Since top-load washing machines are also more common than front-load models, they are easier to find and purchase, making any potential repairs, maintenance, or replacements easy.
Superior cleaning performance: Front loaders typically provide better cleaning results due to their tumbling action and ability to fully submerge clothes in water. Plus, their higher spin speeds help extract more water, which reduces drying time.
Water Won't Drain
If the drain path is clear, the drain pump might have failed or a broken water-level pressure switch might not sense how much water is in the washer. A failed lid switch can also keep the washer from advancing to the drain and spin cycle in some top-load washing machines.
The truth is that older appliances were often built with sturdier materials, like good ol' fashioned metal, instead of flimsy plastic. This means that they can withstand wear and tear much better than modern appliances.
Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.
Miele Washing Machines are vigorously tested to last the equivalent of 20 years use. Miele Washing Machines are ecological and consume only the amount of water and electricity needed for excellent cleaning and rinsing results.
All home appliances wear out eventually, and for washing machines, the expected lifespan is about 10 years. So if you've had your machine for 10 years or more, replacement is probably the best choice, unless it's a very simple problem to repair.
Average Lifespan of a Washing Machine
Faulty water or power lines and defective machines could land your washing machine on the lower end of that estimate. Top-load washing machines are the traditional and classic style, often lasting up to 15 years. However, they are prone to overloading, which creates malfunctions.