Front-loaders can have mold/mildew problems. If you use the wrong detergent, too much detergent, or too much fabric softener, or let the drum and gaskets stay wet between uses, mildew and mold will grow in your washer and it'll stink.
"The average lifespan (of a front loader) is just five years, regardless of make. The average lifespan of most top loaders, on the other hand, is about ten years."
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.
Every time you finish a load in your washer, keep the door open instead of closing it — yes, even if you're not using it. Gazzo says the fresh air will cause the water to evaporate faster, ultimately ensuring your washer stays dry and mold-free and your clothes smell the way you want them to.
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.
This should be done about every two weeks. If the drain pump filter gets clogged with debris, the water flow will slow down, and fill up with stinky water over time. Old water that didn't drain sits here, as does lint and other odd items. The drain pump filter is usually located at the front bottom of the washer.
These include an incoming power problem, a damaged power cord, a malfunctioning door lid switch or lock, a defective user control board or timer, a broken drive belt, or a faulty or obstructed drain pump.
Run an empty cycle with a cup of bleach or vinegar
Once a week, run an empty cycle with just a cup of bleach or of vinegar. This will disinfect your washer, and prevent germs from hanging out in the drum. You need to do this regularly to keep the machine sanitary.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If the washer has a minor failure such as a bad lock on the lid or door, it's usually better to repair the washer instead of replacing it. Completing a minor repair on a well-maintained washer with more than 8 years of expected useful life remaining is typically more economical that replacing the washer.
Water pressure is too strong, build-up of undissolved detergent, blocked drain pipe, over-filling, too many suds and surge in power supply (surge can cause the motor to spin out of control). Rectifying this problem is fairly simple takes few minutes, but requires the know-how of a washing machine technician.
If your washing machine is shaking violently, the culprit may be inside: check if the washer is overloaded or if a bulky item is causing it to become unbalanced. If all is well on the inside, it's also possible that the washer is unlevel or unbalanced due to improper installation or uneven floors.
Washing Machine
Vinegar is sometimes used as a fabric softener or for getting rid of stains and odors in laundry. But as with dishwashers, it can damage the rubber seals and hoses in some washing machines to the point of causing leaks.
You can absolutely run a washing machine empty, and in fact, you should make a point of doing it regularly! If you want your washing machine to remain in peak condition, it's important to keep it as clean as possible.
It won't hurt to leave your clothes in the washer for up to 12 hours. However, according to Mold Busters, bacteria, mildew, and visible mold can grow on clothes in as little as 24 to 48 hours. When bacteria and mold grow unchecked, they create the distinct musty laundry odor we've all come to recognize.
Water Doesn't Appear or Drain Normally
If the machine turns on and you hear the sound of the water pump, but no actual water appears, then you most likely have a clogged drain hose. The hose can be removed from the back of the machine and be checked for any dirt or dust that may have created a blockage.