Appliance repair technicians and our product experts agree: Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung are the most reliable brands of washers has least repairs.
Our surveys indicate that LG is the most reliable brand that makes front-load and top-load HE washers, while Speed Queen is the most reliable brand for top-load agitators. Electrolux, LG, and Miele shine among compact front-load washers.
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.
On average, a Maytag top-load washer has a lifespan of about 10 to 13 years. That's more than a decade of heavy-duty performance, saving you time and energy while making sure your clothes are thoroughly cleaned.
Both brands excel in different areas. LG offers advanced features, such as AI cycles and TurboWash technology, ideal for tech-savvy users. Maytag is known for durability and powerful cleaning cycles, making it great for heavy-duty laundry. The better choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
LG washing machines are typically more expensive due to their advanced features and technology, while Whirlpool offers more competitively priced models with solid performance and efficiency.
What washers do repairmen recommend? Whirlpool and LG were the two washing machine brands recommended by Puls who said they had the fewest problems and were the cheapest to repair, on average. Maytag came in at third.
A broken motor coupler, failed lid switch or bad timer could also prevent this type of washer from spinning. On top-load, vertical modular washers (washers whose lid is always locked during the entire wash cycle), a failed shifter assembly or worn drive belt can prevent the washer from spinning the wash load.
That said, when considering GE vs. LG front-load washer appliances, LG has the lead. It has more Energy Star ratings and better performance in terms of efficiency. Both of these brands have similar noise levels and cycle times.
When it comes to reliability, LG consistently takes the lead. Renowned in surveys by Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, LG washing machines boast low repair rates and a plethora of features.
Agitator washers are typically more traditional, tend to use more water and may have shorter cycles, ideal for heavily soiled loads. Impeller washers often use less water and motion and may have larger capacities, making them perfect for bulky items and delicates.
The Cons: Lower water efficiency: Top-loaders typically use more water compared to front-load washers. This can lead to higher utility bills and a larger environmental footprint over time. Smaller capacity: Drum capacity is frequently lower for top-load washing machines compared to front-loaders.
James King in 1851 created the first washing machine to use a drum, Hamilton Smith in 1858 patented a rotary version, and in 1868 Thomas Bradford, a British inventor, created a commercially successful machine that resembles the modern device.
However, of all of the names, two of the best are LG and Bosch. LG washing machines are renowned for being incredibly durable and technologically advanced, while still boasting affordable price tags. Bosch washing machines cost a little bit more, but they are some of the best around.
If you shop at a local, independent appliance dealer, you'll probably come across Speed Queen washers. These are exceptionally durable machines, made to last for 25 years (10,400 wash cycles).
Top loaders are less energy efficient and may use more water. The agitator models can be rougher on clothes, potentially causing more wear and tear over time. Additionally, they may not clean as thoroughly as front load washers, and mid-cycle access to add or remove clothes can be limited.
Top-loaders tend to last longer than front-loaders. This type of washer uses less water and has faster spinning speeds, making it a more efficient model. That's why you can expect top-load washers to last up to 14 years, while front-load washers may only last 10 years.
When Maytag closed its doors in 2007, it was a rough transition. At the time, some 2,000 people were building washers and dryers at the old Maytag manufacturing facility.