Top Loaders
In my opinion, the best top loaders to look at are the Speed Queen TC5000 with silver control panel (not the TR series with the black control panel) and the Maytag mvwp575gw(independent appliance retailers w/ 5 year parts and labor warranty) or mvwp576kw (Lowes with 1 year parts and labor warranty). Both of these washers have short washing times and plenty of water. They are the closest you can get to the old-fashioned good ones most of us older folks remember. Roper, Amana, and Conservator also have a budget model with a dual-action agitator for around $500? Unlike older models, all new washers I am aware of have electronic control boards behind the knobs now. SQ has two and MT has one.
The SQ TC5 stands out for being more durable and better built yet still has good washing performance. Biggest quirk is two water level choices (instead of more water level choices like older models had): full tub or half tub.
The Maytag models I mentioned stand out for the dual action agitator. I have the mvwp575gw. Not only does the tub and agitator move in separate directions, but the top and the bottom of the agitator move independently too. This creates a better wash performance where the clothes are moved down, through, and around the water better. This is especially noticeable with bulkier items like a fluffy comforter. Its biggest quirk is also two water levels. However, with this washer "Normal" is the only cycle you can wash smaller loads with. Normal is not suitable for delicates, and some cold water is mixed in when set to hot (I just add hot water manually for my smaller loads of whites). I don't expect this Maytag to last as long as the TC5000, but mine costs $750 vs. $1000 AND also came with a 5 year parts and labor warranty included. TC5000 comes with 3 year parts and labor and an additional extended three year warranty is available. Balancing loads is not an issue with the MT if you wash like items with like items.
For front loads, *I* would look at LG3900 or the 3700 models. My previous washer was an LG front load. Lasted ten years before bearings went out with only two minor repairs. Rotor vibrated loose (less than $100 and easy to fix) and drain pump (our fault) but also inexpensive and user replaceable. I had no issues with mold--just left the washer door cracked (and this is in a house where I often keep the AC around 80). Dryer is 12 years old and still works.
In general, impeller washers work well for smaller items and clothing but not nearly as well for bulkier items like comforters--the turnover just is not there. Also, the tub capacity may appear larger but some of these washers fill with very little water. Also, it *seems* they do not wash larger loads as well--again turnover.
Lorain Furniture and Kirk Rivas has some great reviews on these and other washers. My statements above are in general. Their reviews will help you sort out the pros and cons better for the particular models interested in.
