Forget about him, old cranky can't stand backtalking
Or maybe he just needs more fiber in his diet.
Or maybe he just needs more fiber in his diet.
New 2018 speed queen pictures
- Thread starter lorainfurniture
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Help Support AutomaticWasher.org:
control panel layout
I wonder what the control panel layout is going to be.
I wonder what the control panel layout is going to be.
My Greatest Dissatisfaction
with the Model 432 that I bought a few weeks ago is the amazing amount of lint it generates. I owned top loaders until around 20 years ago, until I switched to a couple of front loaders. They never left lint on clothing like this machine does, and certainly the front loaders never did. I've been forced, for the first time in 40 years of buying washers, to have to separate laundry by lint-producing and lint-attracting. It's doubly irritating because I only have myself to wash for, so it's not like I have full loads of these things.
Given what I've seen with this SQ TL, if I had it to do over I'd buy their front loader instead. With the amount that I wash weekly, though, this machine will probably last me for 20+ years, according to SQ's guide!
I hope that the new action, whatever it is, does a better job of not creating lint, and of getting rid of the lint it does create.
with the Model 432 that I bought a few weeks ago is the amazing amount of lint it generates. I owned top loaders until around 20 years ago, until I switched to a couple of front loaders. They never left lint on clothing like this machine does, and certainly the front loaders never did. I've been forced, for the first time in 40 years of buying washers, to have to separate laundry by lint-producing and lint-attracting. It's doubly irritating because I only have myself to wash for, so it's not like I have full loads of these things.
Given what I've seen with this SQ TL, if I had it to do over I'd buy their front loader instead. With the amount that I wash weekly, though, this machine will probably last me for 20+ years, according to SQ's guide!
I hope that the new action, whatever it is, does a better job of not creating lint, and of getting rid of the lint it does create.
I have a 432 also and I don't really notice lint problems. I machine dry though so I guess it wouldn't matter that much. I have had the machine now almost 5 years and if I get another 10 it will be well worth it.
The most reliable machine I ever owned was a dd Whirlpool and I would of probably still had it had not the washbasket holes got plugged up with mineral deposits because I was using Arm &Hammer and if I got the timer fixed. NOW THAT was a good machine.
The most reliable machine I ever owned was a dd Whirlpool and I would of probably still had it had not the washbasket holes got plugged up with mineral deposits because I was using Arm &Hammer and if I got the timer fixed. NOW THAT was a good machine.
brucelucenta
Well-known member
- Joined
- Jul 21, 2013
- Messages
- 1,924
LOL If you get another 10 years out of it it will be more than worth it, it will be a miracle!!!!
Would like to weigh in on the SQ's. Purchased Model 432S in April 2015 and with recent events in our household this year, feel that I can give a fair and balanced view.
*Johnr is correct in the linting problem "...the amazing amount of lint it generates." For $1000.00+ spent on this machine, I did not expect this situation. Have been racking my mind as to what I could rig up in a homemade lint filter to fit inside the agitator to alleviate the problem. The inside of the agitator is mostly hollow, surely something should work. Speed Queen states in their guide to "Sort Lint "Shedders" From Lint "Receivers" and then they give examples. They definitely were aware of this issue. See picture below. I'm wondering if a Maytag filter wouldn't fit inside with some modifications. I miss my old Filter-Flo's!!!
For $1000.00+ I had hoped for larger usable capacity. SQ guide states for an Extra Large load size is "2 queen size sheets, 4 pillow cases, 2 nightgowns, 1 pair men's pajamas." In all honesty, this is pushing it's limits. Started having small pin holes in my undershirts and small holes and tears in towels showing up when washing an extra large loads. At first I thought it was bleach, age of my clothes, or I was doing something wrong, so I cut the size of the load but left the water selection on high and the pin holes and tears in the towels ceased. There are two vertical holes in the agitator and I now never fill the tub past that second upper hole. I also set the timer between Normal and Short wash to reduce agitation time, but will soak for 15 minutes or so after agitation starts on dirty loads, results are pretty good. For the amount of usable load size it uses a ton of water, and that's NOT including 2nd & 3rd rinses I've had to use on towels.
For $1000.00+ rinsing could be considerably improved. I've finally learned to use "a drizzle" of any type of detergent. Woolite for Darks is the best I've found so far in low sudsing, to eliminate the 2nd rinse in most cases. All Free & Clear isn't bad, but have noticed fading in my clothes. Rosalies Zero Suds would probably be my best bet, but I'm afraid it would really be expensive for a non-HE machine.
Water extraction is poor on large loads, jeans and, again towels, I usually run a second spin to cut drying time.
There was a definite learning curve on this machine. I'm OVER the whole T/L / F/L debate and issue, it took my Dad's illness for me to see the light. Our water bill went from nearly $20.00/month to $60.00/month, but this included running about 8 - 10 loads a week during the summer. Don't remember the water usage, but I can check if anyone asks, it was mostly the SQ. And on the local news there are increases in rates for next year.
I hope SQ's new contender will solve some of the issues I've run across. (I realize that many of the issues were due to it's design and construction for commercial uses.....but for a $1000.00 come on!!)
Sorry to be so negative. On the positive side, it IS built like a tank...and I have no doubt. It's also fast, but with the newer designs on competitors new machines they are cutting the cycle times comparable to SQ so it's much less of an issue it once was. Warranties are the best in the business.
If I were to buy a new machine now it would be probably F/L with sanitizing cycle OR T/L GE, something with some capacity.
*Johnr is correct in the linting problem "...the amazing amount of lint it generates." For $1000.00+ spent on this machine, I did not expect this situation. Have been racking my mind as to what I could rig up in a homemade lint filter to fit inside the agitator to alleviate the problem. The inside of the agitator is mostly hollow, surely something should work. Speed Queen states in their guide to "Sort Lint "Shedders" From Lint "Receivers" and then they give examples. They definitely were aware of this issue. See picture below. I'm wondering if a Maytag filter wouldn't fit inside with some modifications. I miss my old Filter-Flo's!!!
For $1000.00+ I had hoped for larger usable capacity. SQ guide states for an Extra Large load size is "2 queen size sheets, 4 pillow cases, 2 nightgowns, 1 pair men's pajamas." In all honesty, this is pushing it's limits. Started having small pin holes in my undershirts and small holes and tears in towels showing up when washing an extra large loads. At first I thought it was bleach, age of my clothes, or I was doing something wrong, so I cut the size of the load but left the water selection on high and the pin holes and tears in the towels ceased. There are two vertical holes in the agitator and I now never fill the tub past that second upper hole. I also set the timer between Normal and Short wash to reduce agitation time, but will soak for 15 minutes or so after agitation starts on dirty loads, results are pretty good. For the amount of usable load size it uses a ton of water, and that's NOT including 2nd & 3rd rinses I've had to use on towels.
For $1000.00+ rinsing could be considerably improved. I've finally learned to use "a drizzle" of any type of detergent. Woolite for Darks is the best I've found so far in low sudsing, to eliminate the 2nd rinse in most cases. All Free & Clear isn't bad, but have noticed fading in my clothes. Rosalies Zero Suds would probably be my best bet, but I'm afraid it would really be expensive for a non-HE machine.
Water extraction is poor on large loads, jeans and, again towels, I usually run a second spin to cut drying time.
There was a definite learning curve on this machine. I'm OVER the whole T/L / F/L debate and issue, it took my Dad's illness for me to see the light. Our water bill went from nearly $20.00/month to $60.00/month, but this included running about 8 - 10 loads a week during the summer. Don't remember the water usage, but I can check if anyone asks, it was mostly the SQ. And on the local news there are increases in rates for next year.
I hope SQ's new contender will solve some of the issues I've run across. (I realize that many of the issues were due to it's design and construction for commercial uses.....but for a $1000.00 come on!!)
Sorry to be so negative. On the positive side, it IS built like a tank...and I have no doubt. It's also fast, but with the newer designs on competitors new machines they are cutting the cycle times comparable to SQ so it's much less of an issue it once was. Warranties are the best in the business.
If I were to buy a new machine now it would be probably F/L with sanitizing cycle OR T/L GE, something with some capacity.
I Didn't Know
until I decided to replace my FL Frigidaire that Speed Queen even made FL washers! I've been visiting this site periodically since it opened, but this isn't a subject that's constantly on my radar.
I purchased this 432 SQ/TL for one reason: reputation for durability. I was perfectly happy with the cleaning ability of the two front loaders I owned (though not re mold/mildew), I was disappointed with the lack of longevity.
So, I purchased this top loader, as I'd had top loaders for 20+ years and had been happy. Is this new SQ that I've now had for nearly two months the equal of my three Filter-Flo machines? I don't think so. Much, much more lint on the clothing. No Mini-Basket. No Mini-Quick 15-minute cycle.
As I've stated, had I the choice to do over again, I'd possibly pay the several hundred Dollars' difference and would buy the front loader. But then, this dryer with no moisture sensor is definitely not up to the standard of today's regular machines, either. Not to mention, as Frigilux states, the temp on regular drying approaches the surface of the sun.
It's here and I can only hope that the reputation for durability makes it worth its very real shortcomings.
until I decided to replace my FL Frigidaire that Speed Queen even made FL washers! I've been visiting this site periodically since it opened, but this isn't a subject that's constantly on my radar.
I purchased this 432 SQ/TL for one reason: reputation for durability. I was perfectly happy with the cleaning ability of the two front loaders I owned (though not re mold/mildew), I was disappointed with the lack of longevity.
So, I purchased this top loader, as I'd had top loaders for 20+ years and had been happy. Is this new SQ that I've now had for nearly two months the equal of my three Filter-Flo machines? I don't think so. Much, much more lint on the clothing. No Mini-Basket. No Mini-Quick 15-minute cycle.
As I've stated, had I the choice to do over again, I'd possibly pay the several hundred Dollars' difference and would buy the front loader. But then, this dryer with no moisture sensor is definitely not up to the standard of today's regular machines, either. Not to mention, as Frigilux states, the temp on regular drying approaches the surface of the sun.
It's here and I can only hope that the reputation for durability makes it worth its very real shortcomings.
earthling177
Well-known member
John:
Why not take the opportunity, particularly if your set is just two months old, to either see if the store you got them from will accept a return and you get a f/l set, or you sell them to people who think they won't be happy with the new SQ t/l and want something more traditional like you have?
It really doesn't seem worth the trouble of keeping a set you do not like to begin with.
Some people will sacrifice anything for durability/reliability -- I probably would too when I was younger, but now, for me, there are other things that are at least as important, if not more. Then again, my case is different, I'm happy to live in a home with a basement where my laundry room is, and not only I can, but I do have more than one set of washer and dryer. I'll be annoyed if a machine breaks, but I'll still be able to do laundry. People who can only keep one set and don't live near a good laundromat for backup are in different situation.
Cheers!
-- Paulo.
Why not take the opportunity, particularly if your set is just two months old, to either see if the store you got them from will accept a return and you get a f/l set, or you sell them to people who think they won't be happy with the new SQ t/l and want something more traditional like you have?
It really doesn't seem worth the trouble of keeping a set you do not like to begin with.
Some people will sacrifice anything for durability/reliability -- I probably would too when I was younger, but now, for me, there are other things that are at least as important, if not more. Then again, my case is different, I'm happy to live in a home with a basement where my laundry room is, and not only I can, but I do have more than one set of washer and dryer. I'll be annoyed if a machine breaks, but I'll still be able to do laundry. People who can only keep one set and don't live near a good laundromat for backup are in different situation.
Cheers!
-- Paulo.
Paul
I have no doubt that my local dealer would take back the set I have. I won't do it. I'm not sufficiently unhappy for that.
We each have our own criteria for satisfaction with possessions. This set meets those criteria adequately. Others on this forum have different criteria than me, particularly with regard to water use and electronic gimmicks. I wouldn't want yet another front loader with which I'd have to constantly clean and fight against mold and mildew. Oh, I see the preaching of others along with the accusation of laziness or ignorance aimed at those of us who have fought this filth. I simply pigeonhole that ranting along with various other arguments.
No, this set is here to stay for me, as I've seen little else in other brands to motivate me, and uncertainty whether much more expensive SQ models would be worth the extra expense.
I have no doubt that my local dealer would take back the set I have. I won't do it. I'm not sufficiently unhappy for that.
We each have our own criteria for satisfaction with possessions. This set meets those criteria adequately. Others on this forum have different criteria than me, particularly with regard to water use and electronic gimmicks. I wouldn't want yet another front loader with which I'd have to constantly clean and fight against mold and mildew. Oh, I see the preaching of others along with the accusation of laziness or ignorance aimed at those of us who have fought this filth. I simply pigeonhole that ranting along with various other arguments.
No, this set is here to stay for me, as I've seen little else in other brands to motivate me, and uncertainty whether much more expensive SQ models would be worth the extra expense.
earthling177
Well-known member
Well, I wish you good luck then!
I have in fact heard of people who fought the mold and mildew, and to be honest, I'm not exactly sure what causes it and what cures it -- I've never had the trouble myself and I've switched from top-loaders to front-loaders back and forth depending on where I was living at the time and what was available, without any trouble. I've heard everything from "you need to use bleach every once in a while" to "you can't use fabric softener" etc. The thing is that I use bleach so rarely in my home that the bottle "goes bad", that is, the active chlorine evaporates before I use it all and I have to discard the useless liquid, and I use fabric softener in nearly every single load. I've also seen people who had the trouble despite the fact that they switched back to a top-loader, and I've even seen people who had the trouble and all they ever owned was a top-loader. I tend to prefer powder detergents, but I like to try new stuff and if you showed up unannounced tomorrow, you'd see I have plenty of liquid and pod detergents on hand and I use them without trouble too. So, I dunno for sure, but I'm glad I haven't dealt with it.
Cheers,
-- Paulo.
I have in fact heard of people who fought the mold and mildew, and to be honest, I'm not exactly sure what causes it and what cures it -- I've never had the trouble myself and I've switched from top-loaders to front-loaders back and forth depending on where I was living at the time and what was available, without any trouble. I've heard everything from "you need to use bleach every once in a while" to "you can't use fabric softener" etc. The thing is that I use bleach so rarely in my home that the bottle "goes bad", that is, the active chlorine evaporates before I use it all and I have to discard the useless liquid, and I use fabric softener in nearly every single load. I've also seen people who had the trouble despite the fact that they switched back to a top-loader, and I've even seen people who had the trouble and all they ever owned was a top-loader. I tend to prefer powder detergents, but I like to try new stuff and if you showed up unannounced tomorrow, you'd see I have plenty of liquid and pod detergents on hand and I use them without trouble too. So, I dunno for sure, but I'm glad I haven't dealt with it.
Cheers,
-- Paulo.
Mold and Mildew
Because there are such diverse experiences with these plagues on our machines, I think there's something else either climate-based or simply environment-based that we haven't learned yet. I live in a hot and humid climate--my central a/c is running as I type this at 1:45am--and my machines are inside with me. It's seldom above 75F in this house. My water is either very soft nor very hard. I've used every major detergent at length. Of course I left the door open at all times on the FL's. I'd also wipe down the wet inner glass on the door after every wash.
I've had friends in my city who did virtually the same things that I did, and never had any mold or mildew. So who knows? I remember that when I bought the last front loader, the Frigidaire Affinity, it announced that the gasket was made of something special to fight mold. Well, it was worse than my first GE/Kenmore front loader, a lot worse.
I have no doubt that in the future all of this will be considered teething pains for this generation of machines. We're just the ones who are having to live through it.
Because there are such diverse experiences with these plagues on our machines, I think there's something else either climate-based or simply environment-based that we haven't learned yet. I live in a hot and humid climate--my central a/c is running as I type this at 1:45am--and my machines are inside with me. It's seldom above 75F in this house. My water is either very soft nor very hard. I've used every major detergent at length. Of course I left the door open at all times on the FL's. I'd also wipe down the wet inner glass on the door after every wash.
I've had friends in my city who did virtually the same things that I did, and never had any mold or mildew. So who knows? I remember that when I bought the last front loader, the Frigidaire Affinity, it announced that the gasket was made of something special to fight mold. Well, it was worse than my first GE/Kenmore front loader, a lot worse.
I have no doubt that in the future all of this will be considered teething pains for this generation of machines. We're just the ones who are having to live through it.
lordkenmore
Well-known member
Because there are such diverse experiences with these plagues on our machines, I think there's something else either climate-based or simply environment-based that we haven't learned yet.
Wouldn't surprise me.
I can't comment about mold and mildew in front load machines. But I think I had a problem this last summer in a BOL WP DD. At least, it smelled funny--and the smell wasn't a leftover fragrance from the Cold Water Tide I was experimenting with. "Cold water" might explain the problem--but I never really went very cold with my experiments at that time, and I was running plenty of regular washes with other detergents with warmer water. I was using only liquid detergent--but I've used liquids pretty much exclusively for some time with no problem. In any case, I did things to try and correct, such as being sure to use warm enough water, use a bit of my limited powder detergent stash, etc. Finally, I ended up running a full tub of water with bleach. Problem solved...but it came back when I started experimenting with the Tide again. I shelved the Tide, did a bleaching routine, and the problem was solved.
Odd thing...but I went back to using that Tide again a few weeks ago. Mainly because I hate throwing detergent away... And no problems this time. My only guess is that there is something with that Tide formula coupled with a summer-warm laundry room. (I've never had problems in summer before, and I've lived with this laundry room many years now, and this washer for at least 2,3 years now.)
[this post was last edited: 11/18/2017-02:49]
Wouldn't surprise me.
I can't comment about mold and mildew in front load machines. But I think I had a problem this last summer in a BOL WP DD. At least, it smelled funny--and the smell wasn't a leftover fragrance from the Cold Water Tide I was experimenting with. "Cold water" might explain the problem--but I never really went very cold with my experiments at that time, and I was running plenty of regular washes with other detergents with warmer water. I was using only liquid detergent--but I've used liquids pretty much exclusively for some time with no problem. In any case, I did things to try and correct, such as being sure to use warm enough water, use a bit of my limited powder detergent stash, etc. Finally, I ended up running a full tub of water with bleach. Problem solved...but it came back when I started experimenting with the Tide again. I shelved the Tide, did a bleaching routine, and the problem was solved.
Odd thing...but I went back to using that Tide again a few weeks ago. Mainly because I hate throwing detergent away... And no problems this time. My only guess is that there is something with that Tide formula coupled with a summer-warm laundry room. (I've never had problems in summer before, and I've lived with this laundry room many years now, and this washer for at least 2,3 years now.)
[this post was last edited: 11/18/2017-02:49]
Barry's experience with pin holes in fabrics mimics what I experienced with my DD LK (aka Lady Shredmore) and hence my disdain for top loaders. Barry's experience confirms I'm not crazy. Nor two of my neighbors who complained to me since I'm the perceived washer expert around here.
drilling a hole in the center can be done.....been there...done that....
it will turn your agitator into a powerfin style....I only did the hole in the center to help keep it clean from softener build up....I really didn't have to drill one in the sides, it will pull water down and underneath....
in fact, dropping in of those little screen used for a sink strainer should work nicely...
it will turn your agitator into a powerfin style....I only did the hole in the center to help keep it clean from softener build up....I really didn't have to drill one in the sides, it will pull water down and underneath....
in fact, dropping in of those little screen used for a sink strainer should work nicely...
Linting and Mold Problems
The new SQ TL will solve the lint problem, as the agitation is much less aggressive and the neutral drain will help immensely.
The problem with mold and foul odors in FL [ or TL ] washers is always entirely caused by poor washing habits and usage habits.[ this is why one house has the problem and the house next door does not have the problem ] It has never been found to be a problem of the washer.
For all washers, always use plenty a GOOD quality detergent, skip the cheap national brands like but not limited to, Arm&hammer, purex, All, Amway, and any Eco brands.
ALWAYS wash in at least 100F water, this usually means on a FL washer always using the hot wash setting.
If you use fabric softener it is even more important to wash clothing properly the next time.
Use LCB when ever possible.
It is really never necessary to run washer clean cycles, wipe the door boot etc. Wiping the door boot is only the tip of the iceberg, most mold forms on the inside of the outer tub and on the outside of the wash basket, spider and inside the wash baffles, dispenser ares hoses and other parts exposed to water that you cannot even get to.
Never try to rinse in warm water, warm leaves the machine at a perfect temperature for things to grow.
My SQ FL washer smells like a new machine after 12 years of use, When I left for Amsterdam and London the other week I stripped my bed put the sheets in the SQ FLer and forgot them, when I got back 8 days latter I went to my room and saw I had not made the bed went down found the sheets still in the washer with the door closed tightly and though oh s..t.
I opened the door which was covered with condensation on the inside and pulled out a sheet and smelled it, It was as fresh as if the machine had just been run so in the dryer they went and back on the bed.
John L.
The new SQ TL will solve the lint problem, as the agitation is much less aggressive and the neutral drain will help immensely.
The problem with mold and foul odors in FL [ or TL ] washers is always entirely caused by poor washing habits and usage habits.[ this is why one house has the problem and the house next door does not have the problem ] It has never been found to be a problem of the washer.
For all washers, always use plenty a GOOD quality detergent, skip the cheap national brands like but not limited to, Arm&hammer, purex, All, Amway, and any Eco brands.
ALWAYS wash in at least 100F water, this usually means on a FL washer always using the hot wash setting.
If you use fabric softener it is even more important to wash clothing properly the next time.
Use LCB when ever possible.
It is really never necessary to run washer clean cycles, wipe the door boot etc. Wiping the door boot is only the tip of the iceberg, most mold forms on the inside of the outer tub and on the outside of the wash basket, spider and inside the wash baffles, dispenser ares hoses and other parts exposed to water that you cannot even get to.
Never try to rinse in warm water, warm leaves the machine at a perfect temperature for things to grow.
My SQ FL washer smells like a new machine after 12 years of use, When I left for Amsterdam and London the other week I stripped my bed put the sheets in the SQ FLer and forgot them, when I got back 8 days latter I went to my room and saw I had not made the bed went down found the sheets still in the washer with the door closed tightly and though oh s..t.
I opened the door which was covered with condensation on the inside and pulled out a sheet and smelled it, It was as fresh as if the machine had just been run so in the dryer they went and back on the bed.
John L.
mrb627
Well-known member
Lint Problems
Linting issues can be exaggerated by under dosing detergents. Make sure you are using enough. Additionally, over rinsing can contribute too.
Malcolm
Linting issues can be exaggerated by under dosing detergents. Make sure you are using enough. Additionally, over rinsing can contribute too.
Malcolm
John & Malcomb, I'm curious, what detergents do you use? (I cant use anything with optical brighteners, makes me break out.)
Martin, thank you so much for the suggestion on the sink strainers, I did not think of that. Next time I go into town, I'll check Lowes and see what I can find. Excellent suggestion. I AM going to rig something up.
Bob, I NEVER had damage to clothing like what I discovered on my shirts and towels, with previous washers, even with the T/L Kenmore. Had to buy new towels and shirts. One damaged shirt was one of my favorites and, boy, did I hit the roof! I can certainly understand your distain for top loaders now. Also noticed when I washed 4-5 pairs of jeans I started getting sever fraying on the bottoms of the pant leg along the seams, so 3 pairs max now. I've worked hard for what I have so when I discovered the damage I was / am disillusioned to say the least.
Barry
Martin, thank you so much for the suggestion on the sink strainers, I did not think of that. Next time I go into town, I'll check Lowes and see what I can find. Excellent suggestion. I AM going to rig something up.
Bob, I NEVER had damage to clothing like what I discovered on my shirts and towels, with previous washers, even with the T/L Kenmore. Had to buy new towels and shirts. One damaged shirt was one of my favorites and, boy, did I hit the roof! I can certainly understand your distain for top loaders now. Also noticed when I washed 4-5 pairs of jeans I started getting sever fraying on the bottoms of the pant leg along the seams, so 3 pairs max now. I've worked hard for what I have so when I discovered the damage I was / am disillusioned to say the least.
Barry
One main thing, i cannot stress it enough, even more important than using hot water good detergent etc is LEAVE THE DOOR OPEN between uses!!!!! I've had my lg front loader for almost 5 years now and still smells brand new! Even if i pull the door boot back and look bethween the "crevis" there is nothing its perfectly clean, i use fabric softener, tide and persil plus on my whites and musty towels etc i always use the sanitize cycle which is nsf certified.
I washed a shower curtain and the lining that goes with it last night. The machine ripped the lining pretty good. My conscience said put it on gentle but no...didnt think that would happen.
This has been discussed in the past but the tub in my Speed Queen has what feels like threads on the lower walls of the wash basket. Noticed it when I first got it. Nothing sharp but it feels like screw threads almost.
How that escaped QC I have no idea.
This has been discussed in the past but the tub in my Speed Queen has what feels like threads on the lower walls of the wash basket. Noticed it when I first got it. Nothing sharp but it feels like screw threads almost.
How that escaped QC I have no idea.
Barry
In the two front loaders that I owned, and apparently used poor washing habits with, Tide was the detergent used, in one variation or another.
I'm not going to waste time explaining for the umpteenth time that I cleaned the damn things religiously, always left the doors open, removed the detergent drawers and washed them separately in the dishwasher, etc. I washed hot for at least 75% of the time with 140F water. I know that the assertion that I was in any way deficient in my care of the machines is bullsh*t.
However, another question should arise, if somehow my following all the recommendations still didn't stop mold and mildew. And, of course, it applies to many, many thousands of other owners, if not millions. At what point is it no longer fashionable to constantly blame us, the owners, and instead start looking at the design of the product instead?
You know, we lived through Suzuki Samurai SUV's rolling over, and of course that was due to operator error. We lived through Ford Pinto car fires when the cars were rear-ended, of course that being operator error. We lived through Ford Econoline vans killing so many people because they couldn't handle full passenger loads on their rear tires; these were operator problems when the drivers swerved suddenly. I could go on and on with various products that, regardless of cause, proved less than satisfactory when in the hands of the public.
At some point, sniping at the operators of these moldy machines is not going to be satisfactory. At some point, the manufacturers will have to address this problem, perhaps with a new paradigm. After all, we, the public, are the ones spending the money!
In the two front loaders that I owned, and apparently used poor washing habits with, Tide was the detergent used, in one variation or another.
I'm not going to waste time explaining for the umpteenth time that I cleaned the damn things religiously, always left the doors open, removed the detergent drawers and washed them separately in the dishwasher, etc. I washed hot for at least 75% of the time with 140F water. I know that the assertion that I was in any way deficient in my care of the machines is bullsh*t.
However, another question should arise, if somehow my following all the recommendations still didn't stop mold and mildew. And, of course, it applies to many, many thousands of other owners, if not millions. At what point is it no longer fashionable to constantly blame us, the owners, and instead start looking at the design of the product instead?
You know, we lived through Suzuki Samurai SUV's rolling over, and of course that was due to operator error. We lived through Ford Pinto car fires when the cars were rear-ended, of course that being operator error. We lived through Ford Econoline vans killing so many people because they couldn't handle full passenger loads on their rear tires; these were operator problems when the drivers swerved suddenly. I could go on and on with various products that, regardless of cause, proved less than satisfactory when in the hands of the public.
At some point, sniping at the operators of these moldy machines is not going to be satisfactory. At some point, the manufacturers will have to address this problem, perhaps with a new paradigm. After all, we, the public, are the ones spending the money!
Johnrk,
I believe you, have no doubt. I've never owned a front load, and the only experience I have with them was at a commercial laundrymat, and that hardly qualifies for anything. Hopefully the makers of any malfunctioning machines, albeit cars / appliances / electronics will learn of the shortcomings of their designs and get that corrected in short order. Whirlpool and Maytag learned the hard way on what a class action lawsuit can bring.
I have carefully, and thoughtfully, outlined my experiences with the current SQ. I am only speaking for myself and what I've observed. I think the linting problems are a shredding of the fabrics. The new towels that I bought a few months ago are all ready getting noticeably thinner and same with t-shirts, and I'm not overloading the machine, and being careful to set a short wash time. It's a problem.
I believe you, have no doubt. I've never owned a front load, and the only experience I have with them was at a commercial laundrymat, and that hardly qualifies for anything. Hopefully the makers of any malfunctioning machines, albeit cars / appliances / electronics will learn of the shortcomings of their designs and get that corrected in short order. Whirlpool and Maytag learned the hard way on what a class action lawsuit can bring.
I have carefully, and thoughtfully, outlined my experiences with the current SQ. I am only speaking for myself and what I've observed. I think the linting problems are a shredding of the fabrics. The new towels that I bought a few months ago are all ready getting noticeably thinner and same with t-shirts, and I'm not overloading the machine, and being careful to set a short wash time. It's a problem.
mrsalvo-
I'm beginning to notice it with my towels, also. Am thinking of just switching to the slower speed, but then I'm not going back to my utility room with every load to switch to a faster spin speed. I'm making damn sure that I'm keeping plenty of water with my loads, which isn't a problem because I've only had two really full loads by most peoples' standards in the last 6 weeks.
You know what else this whole mold thing vs. operators reminds me of? Back 35 years or so ago, Corning introduced their Visions line of pots and pans. If you remember them, they were beautiful one piece designs in smoky quartz color tinted glass. I ran out and bought every one of them, got rid of my old Revere Ware that had served so well throughout college.
I learned very, very quickly that the Visions cookware had a serious problem: everything stuck to it! You could open a can or corn or peas, put them in water on the stove and they'd stick to the pot. Heaven help you if you wanted to cook an egg or bacon or hamburger; even with Pam they'd weld themselves to the waffle-bottom skillets. Corning finally acknowledged after so many unhappy customers that there was a problem, and they reintroduced Visions in raspberry with some type of nonstick finish. By then, I was like thousands of others--I gave it all to Goodwill and started over.
I'd have happily paid $2K or more for an NOS GE Filter-Flo like the TOL model I bought in 1986--any color. It never let me down, but then neither did the set before or after that one. It just worked, washed my clothing well, and gave me no grief. It was my hope that this new SQ TL was going to be the same. I'm already finding out that, as they recommend, I have to wipe out the top of the stainless steel tub or it accumulates detergent and water chemicals in a ring.
I'm beginning to notice it with my towels, also. Am thinking of just switching to the slower speed, but then I'm not going back to my utility room with every load to switch to a faster spin speed. I'm making damn sure that I'm keeping plenty of water with my loads, which isn't a problem because I've only had two really full loads by most peoples' standards in the last 6 weeks.
You know what else this whole mold thing vs. operators reminds me of? Back 35 years or so ago, Corning introduced their Visions line of pots and pans. If you remember them, they were beautiful one piece designs in smoky quartz color tinted glass. I ran out and bought every one of them, got rid of my old Revere Ware that had served so well throughout college.
I learned very, very quickly that the Visions cookware had a serious problem: everything stuck to it! You could open a can or corn or peas, put them in water on the stove and they'd stick to the pot. Heaven help you if you wanted to cook an egg or bacon or hamburger; even with Pam they'd weld themselves to the waffle-bottom skillets. Corning finally acknowledged after so many unhappy customers that there was a problem, and they reintroduced Visions in raspberry with some type of nonstick finish. By then, I was like thousands of others--I gave it all to Goodwill and started over.
I'd have happily paid $2K or more for an NOS GE Filter-Flo like the TOL model I bought in 1986--any color. It never let me down, but then neither did the set before or after that one. It just worked, washed my clothing well, and gave me no grief. It was my hope that this new SQ TL was going to be the same. I'm already finding out that, as they recommend, I have to wipe out the top of the stainless steel tub or it accumulates detergent and water chemicals in a ring.
There could be many variables that lead to mold in front loaders.
On top of user error, never letting the machine dry out, or using incorrect amounts of detergents/softeners, there could also be other chemical factors.
My home water is very alkaline, with a pH of 8.5 or more!
That contributes to my glasses etching with my soft water.
However my front loader is sparkling.
There's also factors such as temperature and humidity of the laundry room.
Then there's also the factor of different people, and different soils that get introduced to the machine.
All these factors can commingle and cause situations where some machines will never mold, or others will always mold, wether it's a front loader of X or Y brand, or even some top loaders!
On top of user error, never letting the machine dry out, or using incorrect amounts of detergents/softeners, there could also be other chemical factors.
My home water is very alkaline, with a pH of 8.5 or more!
That contributes to my glasses etching with my soft water.
However my front loader is sparkling.
There's also factors such as temperature and humidity of the laundry room.
Then there's also the factor of different people, and different soils that get introduced to the machine.
All these factors can commingle and cause situations where some machines will never mold, or others will always mold, wether it's a front loader of X or Y brand, or even some top loaders!
like it or not, there has to be something leading to this mold/mildew issue...and why some get it, and others don't....
of course there are variables to consider....water, temps, cycles, chemicals, etc...
for me, this goes way back into the 80's when I had a Frigidaire Tall Tumbler, there was not dispenser drawer, and never gave it a thought, once unloaded, shut and latched the door, out of sight out of mind....never an issue.....
I have acquired countless FL machines reeking with filth, mold, mildew....once you clean the heavy stuff with a major chlorine flush, anything that was left, went away on its own during future washings....
all I can say, is I know what has cured the machines, and what prevents it in the first place.....at the end of my wash day, I shut the door and walk away....I don't leave doors or dispensers open, I don't wipe anything down, no special cleaners, in fact my machines don't offer a 'clean washer' cycle....its just a gimmick in my mind....
I do polish the exterior once in a while with car wax.....
you may have to discover your own method.....
of course there are variables to consider....water, temps, cycles, chemicals, etc...
for me, this goes way back into the 80's when I had a Frigidaire Tall Tumbler, there was not dispenser drawer, and never gave it a thought, once unloaded, shut and latched the door, out of sight out of mind....never an issue.....
I have acquired countless FL machines reeking with filth, mold, mildew....once you clean the heavy stuff with a major chlorine flush, anything that was left, went away on its own during future washings....
all I can say, is I know what has cured the machines, and what prevents it in the first place.....at the end of my wash day, I shut the door and walk away....I don't leave doors or dispensers open, I don't wipe anything down, no special cleaners, in fact my machines don't offer a 'clean washer' cycle....its just a gimmick in my mind....
I do polish the exterior once in a while with car wax.....
you may have to discover your own method.....
stricklybojack
Well-known member
.
Martin's [aka Yogitunes] posts remain the benchmark for SANITY and usefulness in the topsy-turvy world that is AW.
Just wanted to chime in with that...
Martin's [aka Yogitunes] posts remain the benchmark for SANITY and usefulness in the topsy-turvy world that is AW.
Just wanted to chime in with that...
Yogitunes
You owned one of my dream machines: an eighties Tall Tumbler! What color was yours? Did you like it? How did it compare for you with contemporary top loaders? I know they were supposed to be trouble-prone, but I still think they're ultra-cool.
You owned one of my dream machines: an eighties Tall Tumbler! What color was yours? Did you like it? How did it compare for you with contemporary top loaders? I know they were supposed to be trouble-prone, but I still think they're ultra-cool.
Been washing with SQ top loaders for three decades. Don't know anything about excessive linting or foul odor issues. Occasionally something might come out of the dryer with some fluff stuck to it - I've got a lint roller for that. The worst that's ever happened was a burst cold water inlet hose. The outside gets wiped down with a damp cloth ever so often. Once a year I open the front panel and clean out dust and whatever else might find its way in there; and to check that everything is in good working order.
These are no-fuss machines that don't need a lot of fussing over.
These are no-fuss machines that don't need a lot of fussing over.
