If you have a front loader, once it hits 12 years of age, it'll likely be cheaper to replace it than repair it, even for more minor failures. For a top loader, that figure drops to seven years.
Front-load washers are relatively new to the market by comparison and they last about 11 years on average. However, it's important to understand that not every washing machine is manufactured the same, so there will be differences between brands and even between models.
Consumer Reports recommends replacing any appliance that's more than eight years old, unless it's a high-end model and has a particular appeal to you. Others suggest replacing any top-loading washer manufactured in 1999 or earlier.
Cons of Front Load Washers
Front load washers can require more maintenance than top load washers. You can't always put clothes in mid-cycle, as the door locks to prevent leakage. Because it's harder for water to evaporate, front load washers may have more mold or mildew problems.
There are two categories of washing machines when determining the average lifespan of these appliances. Traditionally, top-load washers last about 14 years, and they have been used for generations. The average lifespan of front-load washers, on the other hand, is about 11 years.
What brand of washing machine is most reliable? Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung are the most reliable brands of washers. Yale Appliance found that less than 7% of the sales of these units required servicing. J.D. Power also ranks Samsung and LG as the highest-ranking manufacturers in customer satisfaction.
Front-load washers last about 10 to 12 years, while top-load washing machines usually last up to 14 years. Front-load models are newer to the market, while top-loading machines have been popular for generations. While top-load washers tend to last longer, they also usually need more maintenance and repairs.
Best for Reliability: Front-Load Washer
Although top-load washers last longer than front-load washers on average, a front-load will likely need repairs less often over the course of its life. The repair costs typically will be higher, though, due to the many optional wash cycles and extra features.
Are front load or top load washing machines more efficient? Front load washers are generally more efficient, since they're designed to use less water even if they have slightly longer cycle times. Top load washers use more water even if their cycles can be faster than that of a front load washer.
Fifteen percent of all front-load washer owners reported mold or mildew build-up in their machines—compared with only 3 percent of HE top-load washers and 1 percent of top-load agitators.
The average life of a washing machine ranges from 10 to 13 years, although some brands can manufacture washing machines with an even longer lifespan than the average appliance.
A five- or seven-year-old washing machine with five years of life left in it should possibly be repaired. On the other hand, a 14-year old machine with about six years left is likely to lead to more frequent breakdowns and requirements for maintenance and these can add up.
Q: How long do LG washers and dryers last? A: LG washers and dryers will last for 10 to 15 years. Q: What is the lifespan of a Samsung washer and dryer? A: With the proper upkeep and maintenance, Samsung washers and dryers can last up to 14 years.
That being said, it's still possible to find good washing machines that have been built to manage thousands of loads – which, depending on usage levels, can last as long as 20 or 30 years. But today's cheaper models can often only manage hundreds of loads before buckling under the pressure.
Miele Washing Machines are vigorously tested to last the equivalent of 20 years use. Miele Washing Machines are ecological and consume only the amount of water and electricity needed for excellent cleaning and rinsing results.
In addition to outperforming top-load models in terms of stain removal and cleaning, front-load washers are also gentler on clothing than agitator top-load machines. However, there's one advantage that top-load models offer that many front-load washers do not: the ability to presoak a load of laundry before washing it.
Top load washers clean faster and are slightly more ergonomic, so it may come down to the monetary value. Front load machines cost more to purchase and maintain, but they provide better cleaning performance than top load washers.
Compared to a top load impeller washer, front load washers are still 25% more energy and water efficient. Furthermore, front load washers help save on drying time and energy by spinning clothes much faster than top load washers to extract more water out of clothes.
Yes, front loaders have longer wash cycles than top loaders because they combine the rotation of the drum with a shallow pool of water and detergent to wash your clothes, which takes more time (although uses less energy and water) to get the job done. This is also gentler on garments.
Older machines are heavier and were built to last. Because they were constructed with greater quality materials, they typically have a much longer lifespan than the new washers built today.
An excellent front load washer, it has a large tub, many different wash options to choose from, even one for baby clothes, and the washing always comes out super clean. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting a versatile and efficient washing machine.