Help in buying a new WD set, need more info

[cnevil]

I was all set to buy the LG FL washer; finally made my decision on which model and set out to HD to buy it. They didn't have any in stock and the clerk was such a buffoon, he couldn't even tell me when they could get it in. Anyway, I got discouraged and decided to wait. That was the end of July.(HD is 60 miles away) Then in the Lowe's Labor Day sales ad I noticed the new Cabrio so I started researching it. I have Whirlpool WD set now, had it at least 15 years. There's nothing wrong with them, just want one of the newer more energy efficient "cool" sets. In reading up on the very little info on the Cabrios I noticed they list 3 agitator types(Yes, I know there's not really an agitator). I have no idea what these are and which is best. Can you guys help me?

Whirlpool's site list them as dual action, wash plate, and impellor for their 3 different models. Which one is the best?

Any and all help is greatly appreciated. I'm driving my husband nuts about all of this!

 

[frigilux]

The Dual Action Cabrio has a standard agitator, if you're more comfortable with that.

The impeller version ratchets up the 'cool' factor. Jasonl at this site has one and he really likes it a lot.

The wash plate is actually an older model called the Calypso. Stay away from it! Reliability has not been good and there are linting and tangling issues.

If you want energy/water efficiency, and were looking at a front-loader to begin with, why not consider the Whirlpool Duet front-loader? It gets great reviews at Consumer Reports and is a reliable machine.

Let us know what you wind up purchasing and have fun!

 

[cnevil]

Thanks for the info. Looked at the duet, but found the lg was direct drive, no belt to break as in the duet. While reading here though (just found the site tonight) I noticed a lot of people like the Duet. I've had 2 WD set; both were whirlpool. I think you've helped me lean back towards them. I'll let you know what I end up with. Going to Lowe's tomorrow to check them out!

Thanks for all of the help!

 

[tumbler]

Duet

I bought a Duet pair (Duet HT w/heater, gas dryer) in May, and couldn't be happier with them. The belt is not really a problem-it's very rare for them to break or come off. I have no experience with the LG machines-I've heard that they work well. However, unless something has changed recently, it is difficult and time consuming to get parts for them should you need them-you can only get them through LG-and finding service personnel trained on the machines has also been a problem. I'd go with the Duets!

 

[rp2813]

If you have a Lowe's near you (relatively speaking) I'd keep an eye out for deals on a Duet pair. A few months back they had a great deal on the most affordable pair, below $700 for the washer and pedestal was included with both. I've not seen a better deal before or since.

I've decided the wasteful and belt-eating Amana (aka Speed Queen) washer I now own will be my last top loader. Not only are front loaders quiet and more economical to operate, they are also more ecologically friendly by not using so much water and electricity to do their jobs, they have become much more mainstream here in the U.S. in recent years and we have more brands and models of FL's to choose from than ever before.