Picking out a Kenmore

[supersurgilator]

I was online looking at Kenmore toploaders and was wanting some input. I really like the 500 and 600 series machines, but the reviews don't seem that good. Granted most of the complaints are about noise. If the noises are anything like my grandmas stacked Kenmore, it is just the gears clanking when the machine shifts from drain to spin, but theirs does do a lot of banging in the spin. I could live with that I suppose, I would just want something that will last awhile. Thoughts?

 

[stainfighter]

what about?...

An Admiral from Home Depot? It just went back to regular price of $329 but just over 1 wk ago it was only $259 SHIPPG included! Even at this price it is a good machine, one that we are seriously considerg when our FL sh _ ts the sheets (soon?)...just a friendly suggestion for ya'

 

[stainfighter]

forgot to mention...

also made by Whirlpool, someone gave it the nic name Admiralpool

 

[supersurgilator]

Hmm, thanks for that possibility. I love Whirlpools for their reliability, but wasn't thrilled with their current lineup of toploaders. This reminds me of the good whirlpools from a few years ago (before they changed the console etc.) Thanks for the suggestion.

 

[alr2903]

The 500 was my late Mom's last machine, she bought it in 2007, the lid opens "back". The racket/ noise is that clunka..clunka...clunka agitator. My brother still uses it, it works well, we have never had any problems with clothing ripped or excessive wear. They must be durable, he loads it to the max every load and washes lots of heavy outdoor clothing. Going high enough in the line up, to get the extra rinse, is a wise investment. alr2903

 

[rll70sman]

Be careful!

I had the Kenmore 500 for six months. Unfortunately, the quality of Kenmore washers seems to have taken a nose dive in recent years. Even though the machine had three cycles, all were essentially the same as the normal cycle with only single-speed agitation and spin. The automatic temperature control didn't work worth a darn despite the fact that my washer is located about ten feet from the water heater. Furthermore, the wash basket never stayed center and crashed and banged when coasting to a stop after spinning. I purchased this machine in March 2009 for about $553.00 including tax and delivery.

In October I got rid of the machine and purchased a new 2008 model Whirlpool from an independent appliance dealer with the same features as the Kenmore, a true two-speed motor, and more durable construction for $475.00, tax and delivery. It has been a great machine that runs smoothly and quietly and seems much more sturdy. My advice would be to carefully check out the Kenmore models and ask lots of questions to make sure you're getting what you pay for. I made the mistake of assuming that I'd be investing in the Kenmore quality and value that the brand has been known for.