Recommendation for compact front loading washing machine

[srhia]

Our washing machine just died and I'm looking for recommendation.

Our requirements:

- Compact washer only, due to our very small laundry closet that only fits machines of 24" wide, or narrower.
- Has to be front loader washer
- I don't need fancy features. Would prefer longevity over features.

Due to warranty coverage, we're required to purchase through PC Richards (we're given credit to purchase a replacement, since the existing GE just died within warranty period), and our options are below. So my questions are:

1. Do you have any experience with the following models? Would you recommend any?

a. GE WCVH4800KWW (current machine that just died one week before 5-yr extended warranty expires)

b. Bosch Axxis (previous machine that died one month AFTER 5-yr extended warranty died)

c. Whirlpool WFW5090GW or WFW3090GW

d. Asko W6424W

2. It's been really difficult to find reviews online for compact washers. If I have to pick one from the above, which brand would give me the best machine with the longest life span? Again, prefer longevity over fancy features.

3. Both of my washers died around the 5 year mark - is that the expected life time? I thought washers would last longer (8-10 years)? By the way, both washers had their drums broke off from the spider arm.

4. It is also possible that perhaps I'm not using it right, or not doing enough maintenance. Any suggestions / tips on how to make front loaders last longer? I usually fill up 2/3 to 3/4 full, do about 4-5 washes a week, only uses HE liquid detergent, and do not use bleach.
I've done a lot of reading in this forum, so I'm aware of warm/hot wash cycles, use adequate amount of detergent, cleaning using vinegar/bleach already.

Thank you in advance for any suggestions and ideas!

 

[imperial70]

How about electrolux

I don't have any experience with the compact Electrolux set. But I have been looking at it as I want my laundry room in the kitchen or bathroom. My friend has a full sized electrolux set and loves them.

https://www.electroluxappliances.com/Washers-Dryers/Washing-Machines/Washing-Machine/EFLS210TIS/

 

[appnut]

PC Richards does sell the Electrolux EFLS2100.  I would suggest that or the Whirlpool WFW5090. 

 

I would suggest using powdered detergent rather than liquids too. 

 

[srhia]

Yes @appnut, you're right. Just noticed that PC Richards also sells that Electrolux model. I've been trying to find reviews all day long on these models, and my eyes are ready to pop out of my socket, and somehow missed this one on their website.

Thank you!

 

[appnut]

Also, I never you the max/highest spin speed, the fastest spin speed I use is the one below the highest spin speed.  Puts less stress on the machine.  I've had my Whirlpool duet since December 2011. 

 

[henene4]

ELux

Those have a verry good recirculation system.

With compacts and short cycle times, a recirculation does help a lot with quick wetting, thorough washing and proper rinsing of the load.

 

[foraloysius]

I would rule out the Whirlpool compacts. They are budget machines here in Europe and many people have experienced problems with them.

 

[srhia]

Ok - so it looks like the Electrolux maybe my best bet then??

Thank you for all the feedback so far!

 

[rolls_rapide]

Agreed...

Use powder detergent!

Liquids and pods are just storing up trouble.

It seems extremely odd that both machines should have the drums snap off of the spiders. It is common for our machines to have knackered bearings; virtually never the spider support.

Mum has had her Bosch Exxcel since 2006. Drum is still intact, but bearings have been rasping lately. Had two new sets of motor carbon-brushes over the years (genuine Bosch ones lasted the longest), and one new door seal. 90% of the time, powder is used. Quite a reliable machine, typically used on average, once a day.

 

[askolover]

I've used Asko for over 20 years and have added a Miele to my laundry room 2 years ago.  Love both of them.

 

[darthwolf000]

Compact Front load washers

I have had my LG Combo W/D front loader (24 inch) for over 5 years without any issues. Wash quality was excellent and drying capacity was very good .... when used properly. When I first got the combo it was on wheels and able to hook up to the sink.... thanks to kit from compact appliance.com.

 

[peteski50]

LG Combo!

I have this same exact combo as above and I am Happy with it also!

 

[askolover]

"When I first got the combo it was on wheels and able to hook up to the sink.... thanks to kit from compact appliance.com"

 

I'd love to see a front loader on roller skates try to spin!

 

[thomasortega]

Nothing strange happens... there are several rollers on the market with brakes. You just need to step on the brake and the washer will be perfectly static during the spin.

Those LG washers are really great. Mine is a bit older (Senseclean that belongs to Kevin but came to spend a few months visiting my laundry room) but it's basically the same washer. I love it!

 

[combo52]

24" FL Washers In The US

We have a LOT of experience with this, We sell several every week for compact spaces in DC area condos.

 

Conclusion, there are no great choices, overall we like the GE 4800 series, these are currently built in China by LG, however we have seen a lot of broken spiders in this machine [ is is as bad as the small door 27" Frigidaire built 1998-2011 in regard to spider breakage ]

 

To get maximum life out of a FL washers spider always wash on hot water setting not warm [ yes you could do an occasional cold or warm load ], use chlorine bleach in the dispenser when washing clothing at least every 5th load [ cleaning cycles do little good and are just a waste of water and cleaners, if the washer is getting dirty every time you are washing clothing you are not getting clean laundry out of it ]

 

Use highest speed spin whenever you wash heavy items, this will keep the spider cleaner, the spider does not break because of stress so much as corrosion. Leave the door and the dispenser drawer at least partly open, your washer should always smell great inside.

 

John L.