need to replace a washer for elderly parents

[meldew]

Hello, it's been a few years since I've been here. I own an LG front loader (purchased based on recommendations here) and overall I'm pretty happy with it. It has had some issues from the first year (never called service) but that's a topic for another thread!

My elderly parents need a new washer. Their ancient Kenmore TL is flooding the basement. They have only ever had old agitator TLs but while her machine is broken my mother has used a neighbor's FL and liked it. They are not interested in fixing their current machine. Besides the leaking, the agitator doesn't agitate any more (but the tub does wiggle).

I'm tasked with ordering and arranging installation for them from a few states away. What would you buy? I'm looking at SQ TL machines if they will accept an appliance store vs Lowe's. Or I could get them a front loader. I do not know what very basic FL would be best. My LG has too many options for them imo.

Would love input! Thanks.

 

[meldew]

so I couldn't edit but I'm seeing that the SQ TC5 is the best top loader.... probably.

All the LG look complicated but apparently have the best repair record for big box front loaders.

 

[rp2813]

You may also want to consider the need to bend down for loading and unloading a smaller size FL, which is likely the only FL option with simple controls.  I realize that it's already necessary to bend in order to reach or load dryer contents, but the opening is bigger, which requires little digging compared to a FL washer with some spun contents stuck to the drum.  I don't think the smaller FL sets offer a pedestal option, but it's something to research.

 

I'm bad at keeping track of the Speed Queen model numbers, but I think the TC5 may be the one that just swirls things around and can't wash its way out of a paper bag.  I would steer clear of that one.

 

There are literally tons of Kenmore and Whirlpool direct drive TL machines out there on the pre-owned market, and they are reliable and easy to fix, with simple controls.  That's an option to consider as well.

 

 

 

[jaums]

Front Loader Suggestion

I'll toss in the bottom-of-the-line LG front loader, WM3500C

This line is highly rated, very popular.

Large capacity, tho not the largest (for fewer loads and the occasional comforter)
Front loader cleaning & energy/water efficiency
Pre-wash option for taking care of accidents
Add a pedestal to make it easier to load and unload
Not so many cycles, you can easily change water temp, an option your Mom probably will want

https://www.lg.com/us/washers/lg-WM3500CW-front-load-washer

 

[volsboy1]

L.G. makes good appliances. My Mom bought the G.E. Harmony top load washer(MADE by L.G.) when it came out in 2003. When Mom bought her Miele front loader washer 2010 she gave the Harmony to my brother and his family of 6 they do 4 to 5 loads a day . It has never had the first thing to go wrong on it. 17 years old is not the rule (unless its a S.Q.) as it used to be with washers. If my washer Hotpoint lasts 6 years I will be shocked. If you go with a top loader you wont have to buy that lift for the washer. You said it was for your elderly parents . Speed Queen washers will last 25 years easy . The TC5 is the good classic Top loader with a Transmission the same one they have made for years.Miele makes great front load washers,my parents have never had a problem with there washer.

 

[agiflow4]

I would recommend the Amana NTW4516 top load washer. You could get it at Best Buy or the Roper from Lowes.

Same machine basically. They have the white porcelain wash baskets and true 2 piece dual action agitator. I have been using mine now for 3 months and it is just a plain good machine .

Very easy to use.Complete choice of cycles with auto or deep fill options. Cleans very well. Between $400-$500 but you may be able to get one on clearance.I paid $200 clearance for mine brand new at Lowes back in May when I had to leave a washer with my old house.

 

[littlegreeny]

I second Jaums' recommendation of the LG WM3500C. It's a very high performing, no frills front load washer.

 

[meldew]

thanks everyone

I'm just now getting back to this - their old Kenmore TL is leaking and they think rusted drum but I'm not there... It's very old. I'm thinking late 80s early 90s - has wood grain controls lol. Mom is interested in a FL but added expense and I'd feel she'd possibly need a pedestal; more money for that too. Plus I don't know how long they will realistically be in that house!

I'd go with a used TL all day long but I'm two states away and need to order online to have it delivered and installed.

I will look at the Amana/Roper option - I would love to buy her a Speed Queen but the local dealer is not answering the phone nor returning my messages and it's double the Amana. There are a lot of Maytag/Whirlpool but I don't know which have the deep fill and which are now garbage. If they're all cheaply made I would go with Amana/Roper for the price.

Thanks for all the input. I appreciate it!

 

[DADoES]

 
All Kenmore toploaders were of the direct-drive platform by the late 1980s.  They have plastic outer tubs.  The model number would clarify what's involved and the serial number would pinpoint the age (manufacture date).  Or a photo looking down on the machine with the lid open.