Alright, talk me into (or out of?) this...

[dustin92]

Trying to get a little insight here, I recently picked up a 2011 Roper (Whirlpool DD) washer, that I quickly repaired and planned to sell. I had no real intention of keeping it, but we have been having some issues with the Whirlpool Duet Sport front loader upstairs. That is a 2008 model. The issue is it's going out of balance with anything more than a light load, and I'm talking really out of balance. Vibrating folded clothes off onto the floor, machine itself shaking 1/2" or so in every direction. It was properly leveled and worked well when I installed it, but now nothing seems to help. I'm thinking the spider may be cracked (not totally broken yet), but haven't done any investigation. Anyway, I've been using the DD machine downstairs to do most of the laundry, and it's doing a darn fine job of it. The machine itself is in great condition and seems to be working great. I'm thinking of moving it upstairs, and the Duet Sport downstairs to investigate it's issues. Pros and cons of this maneuver? Good idea or not? I'm torn on what I should do, the front loader has been pretty reliable, and of course efficient, but can fall a little short on cleaning ability at times. The top loader washes great and has up to an 18 minute wash (wouldn't that be the same as putting the clothes in a blender?) But obviously won't be as efficient, although we have flat rate water and sewer, but still have to pay to heat the water. I wash in mainly warm water, whites and bedding in hot. It does have a "cool" setting which seems to be about 70 degrees, might be useful for some loads. I almost never wash in cold. I know "I" can do any repairs the top loader may need, and it's simple to work on, the front loader not so much. There's also the wear on clothing, which the front loader causes very little, but we have had Whirlpool DD machines in the past and they do seem to wear clothes pretty fast. Opinions? What would you do in this situation?

 

[brucelucenta]

Probably a good idea for now

Nothing really wrong with DD machines. Like anything, when used properly they work very well and do no damage to clothing or items washed it them. They are quite easy to work on and maintain and there is little to go wrong with them. The two most common things are the coupling between motor and transmission and the pump. Even if the clutch to engage the spin needs to be replaced it isn't a terribly troublesome job. They are amazingly dependable, but with misuse can be a problem. Just load it loosely and use a minimum of wash time, depending on soil level and you will do fine. They really are pretty good machines as far as washability and water extraction. They are quick too.