Purchasing a new appliance can get strenuous, especially when you have to comb through hundreds of models currently available in the market. Purchasing a new washing machine is a long-term investment, and one needs to do their due diligence before finalizing a model. There are several factors consumers have to take into consideration, including the price tag, which can often deter customers from splashing the cash.
While the brand name certainly plays an important role in attracting consumers, it is imperative that you look at the washing machine’s features, function type, and load capacity. Yet another important factor that you have to take into consideration is the washer’s load type, i.e., top-loading washing machines or front-loading washing machines.
Considering the fact that these two types are very different, and determine how energy and water-efficient the machine can be, here is a washing machine buying guide to help you with your purchase.
Top-Loading Washing Machine
Top-loading washing machines either use traditional agitators or shallow impellers to move the clothes or water alongside the drum. Traditional top-loading washing machines that use agitators generally come with less load capacity, use more water, and because of the presence of the agitator, they can be quite harsh on the clothes. That said, these traditional top-load washers are less expensive than other washing machine models, and wash the clothes relatively faster.
The top-loading washing machines that use shallow impellers are highly efficient and have more load capacity than the models that use agitators. Considering the fact that they do not have a central rod, they are gentle on the clothes and fabrics, and come with top-of-the-line features such as load sensors, along with multiple wash programs and options that one usually finds in front-loading washing machine models.
Pros:
- In top-loading washing machines, consumers can add more laundry mid-cycle, which is not possible with front-loading models
- Wash cycles are significantly shorter when you’re using a top-loading model
- Most of the top-loading models come with advanced features like inverter technology, which reduces vibrations, and allows the washing machine to operate silently
- Top-loading washers are more simple and intuitive and are therefore easy to operate
- Compared to front-loading machines, top-loading washing machines are cheaper
- Unlike their front-loading counterparts, top-loading models take up less space and can be moved around with ease
Cons:
- One of the major drawbacks of using top-loading machines is their cleaning performance, which can leave a lot to be desired especially when the clothes are heavily soiled, or if the washer is packed to the brim
- Top-loading washing machines generally use more water and consume more energy
- Top-loading models usually come with less capacity as compared to front-loading models
- These machines also take longer to dry your clothes
Front-Loading Washing Machine
Front loading washing machines come with top-of-the-line features and the latest technology and are extremely sturdy. Furthermore, front-loading models also have high spin speeds, and can quickly and effectively dry clothes. Unlike top-loading washing machines, front-loading washers can also be stacked, which makes them the ideal appliance if you need to save space in your laundry area.
Front-loading washing machines, as compared to traditional top-loading models, provide better cleaning, and come equipped with multiple wash programs, better cleaning options, and the latest technology.
Pros:
- Front-load models come with larger capacities, enabling you to put more clothes inside the machine
- Compared to top-load washers, front-loading models offer better cleaning performance, as most of the models let you add steam to the wash cycle, thereby removing even the most stubborn stains with relative ease
- Front-loading washing machines also offer more washing options
- These models are also extremely water and energy efficient, as they consume less water, and also consume less energy while washing the clothes
- Considering the fact that front-loading machines come with high spin speeds, they dry clothes quickly and effectively
Cons:
- Front-loading machines are usually more expensive
- Wash cycles in these washing machines take longer as compared to top-loading models
- During the spin cycle, front-loading models tend to vibrate, especially if the washer is not installed on a reinforced floor
- Because of how a front-loading machine is designed, water can often get trapped inside the machine, which can cause musty odors
Thus, depending on your budget, the number of people living in your household, and if you would prefer a high-end washer with top-of-the-line features and latest technology, you can either opt for a front-loading machine or a top-loading model.
