Top 3 Best Front Load Washing Machines Canada May 2020

Best Front Load Washing Machines

Washing machine is a consumer durable that requires immense marketing on the part of the sellers. As the competition gets stiffer and stiffer, many marketers resort to all the possible marketing gimmicks in order get the sales figures to rise.

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In such a scenario, the best source of it for a consumer is the people who can be trusted and relied upon.

One’s friends, relatives, colleagues and acquaintances are the people who can give the best reviews.

Washing Machine Buying Guide

The Basics: Washing Machines

Compelled by the Department of Energy’s requirements for improved energy efficiency, washing machine manufacturers are finally launching some new and more efficient products.

This trend is bringing us improved front-loading machines and some new, equally efficient top-loading machines.

The new front-loading machines use about 2/3 less water than their low-efficiency, top-loading counterparts; however, this energy efficiency comes at a much higher price.

Some of these new models can more than double the price of the average “top loader.”

As a guide, use the yellow EnergyGuide stickers to do your shopping when comparing energy and price on front-load and top-load machines.

Note: The lower the EnergyGuide rating number, the more efficient the machine. Energy efficiency can also come at the expense of convenience. Front-loading models require that you bend in order to load the machine, thus they are harder on the back.

Top-loading machines became popular for precisely the opposite reason — no need for bending over to load.

However, front-loading models can be integrated under countertops and cabinets, or can hold a matching dryer on top of the unit, whereas top-loading models cannot.

The newest and most exciting innovation on the latest models is a Steam feature. Steam provides stain-removing power, offers sanitizing properties and has the ability to refresh and remove wrinkles from stale clothing.

As of this writing, this feature is offered as an optional setting on the priciest new machines from LG, Whirlpool and Kenmore, but we predict there will be more steam washers to hit the market soon in a number of different machine configurations, including compact models.

There are many useful features offered on washing machines, such as Automatic Program settings that will automatically calculate and adjust the level of water and time needed to complete a load.

Delay Start allows you to select when you’d like the wash to start at a later time so you can benefit from off-peak electric rates or have the machine run at a time that is more convenient for you.

There are also varying wash cycles, such as for Delicates or Heavy Wash, that assist in washing different types of clothing for the best results.

Think about which settings and features you will use most often and look for a model that offers these at a reasonable price.

Warranties on most washing machines and dryers are pretty similar. Typically, a warranty offers one full year of coverage for all parts and labor.

After that, warranties will cover specific parts for a longer time period. The specific part and time period will vary somewhat from manufacturer to manufacturer. The specific parts covered are usually fairly durable ones.

It’s probably much more likely some of the parts that are not covered will pose the problems after the first year.

As a result, the important thing to look for is the basic one-year warranty on everything. This is the standard in the industry. Warranty, beyond that first year, should probably not be the sole factor that sways you to select one machine over another. Look instead for performance features that are important to you.

How to Shop

Here are a few questions to ask when shopping for a washing machine:

What size/type washing machine do I need?

Compact washers are usually about 24 inches wide and can handle about 4 to 8 pounds of laundry, which is enough for about one or two people.

Some units can be permanently installed, while other units are portable and may be rolled to a sink and connected to the water supply.

Compact machines are a great option for small apartments and small families.

Conventional full-size models are usually 27 inches wide and hold 8 to 10 pounds of laundry, which is appropriate for large wash loads. Full-size units are the ideal choice for the average family.

They offer powerful spin speeds and can handle smaller loads by using the half-load or quick wash settings.

Large-capacity washers handle 10 to 12 pounds of laundry at a time, so they are great for large families or for people who consistently have large loads to wash.

Despite their large size, these units can be as energy efficient as smaller models and offer similar features and wash cycles as conventional models.

They do take up more space than conventional models, but with the amount of laundry they can handle, it could mean fewer times you will have to do the laundry.

There are also combination washer/dryers. These are available in both 24- and 27-inch widths, with gas or electric dryers.

The wider combination will handle larger loads of laundry and is more comparable to a full-size washer and dryer.

These combinations can be a front-loading washer and a dryer stacked one atop the other or a single model containing both a washer and a dryer in one unit.

The one-piece unit is usually cheaper; however, a problem with one appliance in a one-piece unit can adversely effect the other. Stacked machines will cost more, but each piece can be repaired or replaced separately.

How much should I expect to spend on a new washer?

Basic, no-frills washing machines can be purchased for as little as $250 to $350. Moderately priced machines, with features used in a typical home, run from $350 to about $700.

Front-loading machines and the newer, more efficient top-loaders typically cost in excess of $600 and can easily exceed the $1000 mark.

These pricier models are likely to offer sophisticated control panels and feature the newest technological advances in the industry. With an energy efficient model, you will recoup at least part of the additional, upfront expense over the lifetime of the machine as it will save on energy.

These newer style machines also tend to be gentler on your clothing, cleaning items without wearing them out.

Are there any new and exciting color choices when it comes to washers?

You are likely to see more designer colors added to the traditionally aseptic, white laundry room. From bright and bold, to subtle and calming, more and more colors are being offered on today’s new models.

There are interesting colors such as Barolo Burgundy to Pacific Blue, and Champagne to Soft Arctic Green.

If you are looking to add a little design and texture to your laundry area, look for models that are available in a choice of exciting colors. But note that some of these color choices can be more expensive than there plain white counterparts.

Can I place a washer on a second floor of a home or apartment?

Manufacturers have caught on to people’s need to place washers in an upstairs setting, which sometimes means closer to sleeping areas, so they have developed machines that are quiet and vibration-free.

For these installations, look for models with added insulation and improved suspension. Models may carry labels such as vibration-reduction technology or sport suspension.

If it is your intention to place a high-efficiency model on an upper floor, be particularly aware of the potential for excessive vibration in machines with high-spin speeds in the 1000 rpm range.

What do I need to know about brand and how to service my washing machine?

When shopping, you’ll be confronted by various brand choices. The basic low-down on brands is as follows:

The largest appliance manufacturers are GE and Whirlpool. GE also manufactures the Hotpoint and RCA lines.

Whirlpool manufactures the KitchenAid line, the Roper line and many of Sears, Kenmore models. Maytag is well known for its washers and dryers, has a favorable reputation, and as a result, commands a slightly higher price than other brands.

For front-loading machines, look to Fridgidaire, Kenmore, Maytag and Asko. And finally, before making your final choice, be sure to find out how your unit will be serviced.

Is there a local company who can handle your needs? A sophisticated top-end model is great, but can pose a real problem if no one in your area can fix it.

Although there are some exciting and neat new features available on today’s washing machines, if you do not often use these features then you should not pay extra to have them.

The technological advancements on washers are appealing, but also quite expensive and make a machine more prone to breakdown and need of repair.

We recommend that you opt for the features you really need and know you will use, instead of paying for all the latest bells and whistles.

The most important features to look for are energy efficiency and water conservation, as these will help you save money in the long run. Consider both front-loading and top-loading models that use resources wisely.

Often models that have been available for a while and have a proven record are more reliable and a cost-effective purchase than brand new, untested models.

Glossary

Automatic Dispensers

Features that allow laundry products to enter the machine at the proper time. These include dispensers for bleach, fabric softener, and detergent. Each of these products can be added manually, but dispensers are a nice convenience.

Automatic Temperature Control

Mixes the hot and cold water as it enters the washer, ensuring that the proper temperature of water enters the tub.

Capacity

This refers to the size of the washer’s tub. For best cleaning results, it is important that the amount of laundry placed in the tub has sufficient room to move about.

A large machine is rated at roughly 2 to 2-1/2 cubic feet, an extra-large machine at 2-1/2 to 3 cubic feet, and a super-large at approximately 3 to 3-1/2 cubic feet.

Unless you are washing bulky items like comforter and ski parkas, figure on a 10-12 pound maximum load for large-capacity machines and 14 pounds or so for extra-large and super-large ones. Front loaders usually handle somewhat less.

Controls

Choose from rotary controls, touch pads, and the newer touch screens. Rotary controls are the least expensive and have a long history of good performance. Other styles will add to the price of the machine, but can be useful once you understand their operation.

Cool Down

An intermittent tumbling cycle that will tumble dry clothes with or without heat in order to prevent wrinkling if clothes are not immediately removed at the end of a cycle.

Damp Dry

A feature that shuts off the dryer before the clothes are completely dry–useful for those who prefer to hang damp items, to limit shrinkage and wrinkling.

Drying Rack

A rack that attaches within the drum–great for drying sneakers and minimizing the noise of heavy items tumbling in the machine.

Express Dry

A feature designed to dry small loads quickly, using high heat.

Extra Rinse/Warm Rinse

Allows the operator to change the standard rinse selection. An additional rinse can be helpful for those with detergent sensitivities. A warm rinse will leave clothes warm, speeding the drying process.

Speed Combinations

Machines can offer a variety of wash and spin combinations. Wash speed, such as normal or gentle, are then paired with similar spin speeds.

Three combinations are generally sufficient to serve the various needs of a typical family, although many washers offer more.

Stackability

Some front loaders offer this feature, allowing the user to place a dryer on top–a great option for a small space.

Time Delay

A feature allowing you to load the machine and have it start later. This is useful to take advantage of lower utility rates or to avoid the unwanted noise of the machine at certain times in the day.

Tub material

Typically tubs are constructed of plastic, porcelain-enamel, or stainless steel. Plastic is durable and the least expensive; porcelain-enamel is very common, but may chip and rust; while stainless steel is very durable, but pricey.

Water Level Control

Front loaders match the water level to the load size automatically and are most efficient in water usage. Top-loaders typically require that you guess the proper water level.

To control water usage on a top-loader, you’ll want the option of four or five water levels. Some low-priced models have only one water level. It is wise to avoid these units. They will cost you lots of money in water usage.

Whenever one is set to buy high price items like washing machines, it is best to get in touch with personal contacts as they are the best guides that can ever be.

Front Load Washing Machines

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Whenever one is set to buy high price items like Front Load Washing Machines, it is best to get in touch with personal contacts as they are the best guides that can ever be.

Washing machine reviews from research magazines A lot of consumer goods magazines come up with regular reviews of almost every new model of appliances that enters the market.

Top 3 Best Front Load Washing Machines Canada May 2020

Reading Front Load Washing Machines reviews and reports in such magazines can be a great way to get a fair idea about a brand and its model.

These washing machine reviews also give ratings and recommendations to the various models introduced in the market, thus making it easier to choose one brand and model over the other.

These washing machine reviews, again, may not be totally reliable all the time. With increased competition, the level of guerrilla marketing has increased to such an extent that many brands buy these reviews in order to tilt them in their favour.

Though such practices are observed, they are not necessarily the case with every magazine and every report. It is thus necessary to follow magazines that one can trust and the reviews of which one can rely on.

Top 3 Best Front Load Washing Machines Canada May 2020

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Front Load Washing Machines reviews from the internet review sites

Front Load Washing Machines, Reviews Internet is full of information – both wanted and unwanted! Washing machine reviews from the internet review sites Washing Machine Reviews Internet is full of information – both wanted and unwanted!

Washing machine reviews from research magazines A lot of consumer goods magazines come up with regular reviews of almost every new model of appliances that enters the market.

Reading washing machine reviews and reports in such magazines can be a great way to get a fair idea about a brand and its model. These washing machine reviews also give ratings and recommendations to the various models introduced in the market, thus making it easier to choose one brand and model over the other.

Top 3 Best Front Load Washing Machines Canada May 2020

Learn More on Amazon

These washing machine reviews, again, may not be totally reliable all the time. With increased competition, the level of guerrilla marketing has increased to such an extent that many brands buy these reviews in order to tilt them in their favor.

Though such practices are observed, they are not necessarily the case with every magazine and every report. It is thus necessary to follow magazines that one can trust and the reviews of which one can rely on.

Washing machines are not bought on a high frequency basis. As they are high price items, their purchases are limited and spaced out. As a result, it is essential that one undertake a through market research in terms of reviews and user opinion before choosing or shortlisting one.

It is difficult to find genuine washing machine reviews. A lot many times, the machine reviews are designed with vested interests and so fail to give an unbiased opinion.

It is thus imperative to know what are the right sources that can offer the most reliable washing machine reviews. Some of the review sources are listed below, for the benefit of those who are first time buyers, and also others, in order to help them make informed choices and right decisions.

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