You can easily pay $1,000-plus for the added performance and efficiency of a front-loading washing machine. At just $700, GE's new Energy Star-qualified WBVH5300K (shown below), costs no more than many top-loading washers (we tested the white WBVH5300K[WW] model). And in our latest, ongoing tests show, it washed capably and quickly.
Cycle time was a relatively brisk 69 minutes instead of the 100 minutes or longer we're seeing for many machines as manufacturers try to wring out more energy savings and meet tougher federal energy-use standards and Energy Star qualifications. (Load times typically stretch out as efficiency requirements toughen.)
Besides saving you time, shorter cycles tend to be easier on clothes. The GE was impressive in our gentleness tests and aced our energy- and water-efficiency tests. A plus for big loads: Its excellent score for capacity bears out the manufacturer's king-size claims for its stainless-steel tub.Our newly updated ratings (available to subscribers) also include a pricey new front-loader with a steam-cleaning feature and a low-priced top-loader that's not a standout when it comes to efficiency. Also check out our latest report on washers and watch the video buying guide (above).
The $1,200 front-loading Whirlpool Duet Steam WFM9550W performed well overall (we tested the white WFM9550W[W] model). Its cycle time is about 98 minutes per 8-pound load, longer than the BVH5300K's 69 minutes.
The steam feature adds to the price of this washer. While past tests have revealed that steam settings helped do a better job removing stains, we've also found that the best washers did well without it.
This Whirlpool also has a TumbleFresh option that, claims the manufacturer, will keep clothes fresh with intermittent tumbling after the cycle completes, helping reduce odor-causing bacteria while preventing wrinkles. We did not test that feature. In our ratings you'll find models that clean better, use less energy, and cost less.
Unlike most conventional top-loaders, the $550 Maytag MVWC6ES determines how much water is needed to do a load (we tested the white MVWC6ES[W] model). While this Maytag proved very good overall with excellent washing performance, it earned a poor energy-efficiency score despite its Energy Star qualification. We also found this Maytag tough on clothes.—Kimberly Janeway | e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook
Essential information: Our free buyer's guide to washing machines offers lots of helpful tips. If you're replacing your dryer too, check out our buyer's guide to dryers. And get your clothes cleaner by using the best performers from our latest report on laundry detergents.
We just purchased a Kenmore front load laundry set and are amazed at this new concept used in front-loaders. Completely different and so effective, quiet and efficient. It's nice to see such improvement in an appliance.
I just purchased the new GE front loader washer and my cloths come out smelling dirty with the smell of rubber. I heard that these machine styles have problems with a mildew smell but can be controlled and overall were good machines.
I have had this machine for only 2 weeks exactly and I called GE Online Store to return and purchase a different GE style washer and I have been denied. They only have a 7 day return policy. If I want to return it now I will have to pay a 25% restocking fee. So basically I spent $200 for a trial run on a faulty product.
I do not recommend this product!!!!! Stay away for the GE front loader, model number WBVH5300K
It'd be nice if consumer reports actually tested the reliability and quality of these machines instead of harping on the features, which is really doing the manufacturer's marketing for them.
We can find the features ourselves. Poor quality is something tougher to discover (till it's too late).
My 4-month-old GE WCVH6800J washing machine was completely ruined by a couple of inches of water that accumulated in my basement after the recent torrential rains in the Northeast. It turns out that a critical, very expensive electronic component is attached directly to the inside of the bottom panel. Moreover, both the bottom panel and the housing for this component have lips that prevent water from draining out. Considering that many people install their washer in the basement, and that many basements get wet at least occasionally, this seems to be a design flaw. GE does offer a pedestal for this washer, and in view of the vulnerability of the machine to water, I would recommend anyone considering installing this washer in the basement to buy the pedestal or consider another brand that is less sensitive to water.
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