SQ TL or GE FL?

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hilovane

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Nov 5, 2007
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I'm planning on getting a new washing machine with the next week to 10 days I have a chance to get a GE FL washer (I prefer FL'ers; had them for 14 years); yet, the SQ (mechanical controls; "proper" agitation; centrifugal drain and spray rinse) is the kind of old school TL that I'd seriously consider.

Based on about 100 anecdotal reviews I've seen online, it looks like roughly six out of 10 hold the GE in at least favorable regard. Nearly all of the SQ TL anecdotal reviews are unanimous in praising it.

For my own needs and wants, they both seem to offset each other in pros and cons; water consumption floor space and overall reliability being key (I can at least stack the GE, thus maximizing floor space, as it's going into a small-to medium sized utility room).

I have to make a decision very soon. Any input will be appreciated.
 
SQ top loaders

I have a SQ top loader in my home and absolutely love it. It doesn't beep, rattle, or go out of balance (ever). It washes and rinses thoroughly, without any hesitation. I have used SQ equipment extensively for many years, they are very robust appliances, and I find the new flex-vane agitator design more gentle than the solid vane agitator of years past. The model I have is capable of operating in the traditional manner (full tub of water for the wash and the rinse) but it also has a water miser mode (admittedly that I have never used) if that is a concern.
 
Not made anymore

I don't think that exact model is being made anymore. My recollection is that the larger GE models and their compact had more favorable reviews than the middle size model which was not very popular/ had a lot of failures. Are you certain you need a really large machine? I would definitely look at their compact model the 4800KWW And I would look at the Electrolux models. None of the machines have true mechanical controls anymore, they may have a mechanical interface but there is an electric board in the back. Once you understand that you will realize that unless you were addicted to the dial, you're better off trying to make sure that the washer has the features that you exactly want because no matter what you are going to get, you are going to be getting an electric board. A lot of people love the Speed Queen washer. Personally I prefer quiet. I do recommend to you that you consider what it will be like to get service for whatever washer you choose in your area.
 
I'm a die-hard front-load washer user, but given the choice between the two you are considering, I'd go with the Speed Queen top-loader. I had one for about a year (as a fun, old-school second washer in my laundry room) and it did its job.

With GE having recently been sold to Haier, there's no telling how long parts will be available for their current models. GE's front-loaders are listed near the bottom of the reliability ranking by Consumer Reports. Speed Queen is at the top of the list for reliability in top-loaders.

We love follow-up. Be sure to stop by and let us know which machine you wind up choosing!
 
You neglected one thing Frig

you USED to be a die hard PODS user............until you saw the light and came in from laundry darkness! :)

Hi Frig!
 
Thats Right

So GE was swallowed by Haier too? Ouch.

F&P were several years ago - although I've been told that the machines themselves are increasing in reliability over Pre-Haier machines. And certainly the present F&P FL washes clothes clean, dare I say a bit better than the Miele I used previous.
 
re; GE and Haier

The acquisition has not been FTC approved as yet. GE has filed for protection from FTC scrutiny for being too big to fail, or something, to get the deal done sooner. Just a matter of time. GE appliances has been for sale for some years now.
From now on, since my GE Profile range caught fire last week while it was off, I'm done with them, and I'll not trust Haier either.
 
What about....

If you like front loaders, why not get the Speed Queen front loader? I absolutely love mine. Stainless steel outer tub so no mold worries. It washes and rinses very well. And it's extremely quiet and vibration free. Perfect size tub, too. -- big but not too big.
 
If You Prefer A FLer

Skip the Chinese GE washer and get a SQ FLer, the prices on SQ FLers have dropped by a couple hundred in the last month, we are now selling a SQ FL washer for less than $1500 with del & installation and you have a FIVE YEAR Parts & Labor warranty compared to GEs 1 Year warranty.

 

In our opinion SQ builds the ONLY FLer that will likely last more than 30+ years in most home laundry situations.
 
As much as I love the SQ FL, it's way too expensive for me. So, I guess I'll go with the TL.

BTW, how do you defeat the lid switch?
 

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