Selecting the right washing machine can make a world of difference in your household. A reliable machine can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches. However, choosing the wrong one can lead to frequent repairs, frustration, and unexpected costs. At Doc Danielson Appliance Repair and Care, we have over 16 years of experience in appliance wellness, and we're here to guide you on which washing machine brands to avoid and which ones to consider for long-lasting performance. I do not get paid to express this, it is my personal opinion on which washers are best and which ones are well I will say are not the best.
Washing Machine Brands to Buy: Our Top Recommendations
I remember working with Speed Queen appliances years ago when I was young. Back in the 70s they stopped making residential appliances, and focused solely on commercial washers & dryers. Recently, they have leveraged their extensive experience to re-enter the residential market, offering the best units available today.
If you were to call our office and ask which washing machine to buy, we would recommend Speed Queen without hesitation. Known for their commercial-grade quality and durability, Speed Queen washing machines are built to last. These machines, often found in laundromats, are praised for their robust construction and reliable performance.
It's very rare that we receive a call to repair one of these units, which speaks volumes about their outstanding reliability. Although they are more expensive, they are well worth the investment. In my experience, Speed Queen washers outlast any other washing machine on the market, with the exception of older Maytag models. Choose Speed Queen for a washing machine that will truly take care of your family's laundry needs.
2. Why Bosch Washing Machines are a Top Choice
Bosch washing machines are known for being quiet, efficient, and reliable. The Bosch brand is well-made and is one of the top brands for all residential appliances. We regularly recommend Bosch to our customers.
Bosch washing machines often feature energy-saving modes and advanced cleaning technology, ensuring that your clothes are washed thoroughly and gently. If you're looking for a washing machine that combines high performance with energy efficiency, Bosch is a solid choice.
However, it's important to remember to leave the door open and never leave clothes in the machine to prevent mold growth. Also, if you are committed to a top loader, Bosch might not be the right choice for you, as they only offer front-loading models.
3. LG Washing Machines: Innovative and Reliable
LG washing machines are our third choice because
of their reliability. They are well made machines and last longer than those below. They have large washers and for tiny houses they have smaller washers also. of their innovative technology and reliable performance, though opinions among clients can be mixed. Featuring direct drive motors, steam cleaning, and smart connectivity, they stand out for efficiency and durability. These machines are built to last, making them a valuable investment.
While LG's advanced features are appealing, we always recommend buying appliances with fewer features. As Doc famously said, "The more the features, the more things to break." He wouldn't allow a fridge with a water dispenser, and we can only imagine his thoughts on the steam feature in today's dryers.
When you purchase a new washer, we recommend getting it maintained when it hits 12 months old and buying the top warranty available from the place you purchase it for any of these brands.
Washing Machine Brands We Do Not Recommend and Why!
Over the years, I have become more critical of the brands I recommend. The reason is simple: we spend a small fortune on appliances, and I am tired of seeing people, especially those who matter most to me, purchase an appliance only to replace it two years later. Unfortunately, this has become more common.
Ensuring that regular people have access to appliances that last for years has become my mission. It's crucial to invest in brands that offer long-term reliability and performance, so you don't have to face the frustration and expense of frequent replacements. By recommending the following brands like I aim to help you make informed choices that provide lasting value and peace of mind.
Samsung Washing Machines :Why We Do Not Recommend
Samsung washing machines may be beautiful, but I would not recommend them to anyone, . They have a history of issues, including a recall of over 660,000 top-load washing machines due to safety concerns. These machines often face power issues and are generally unreliable despite their attractive design. In one of my recent posts, I discussed Samsung washing machines and received overwhelming feedback advising to avoid them and even to throw them away. For these reasons, we recommend choosing a more reliable brand, such as Speed Queen, for your washing machine needs.
Viking Washing Machines- Not Worth the Price Tag
Many of my clients in Dallas Texas have homes filled with Viking appliances, often as complete sets. There are numerous issues with Viking appliances, including problems with parts availability and the quality of the parts themselves. At our company, we've had to wait over six months for parts we ordered for a client! What are they supposed to do—just not have an appliance? This is not acceptable to me.
Viking is known as a luxury brand for high-end kitchen appliances. However, their washing machines have been plagued by reliability issues and frequent repairs, making them a less-than-ideal choice despite their premium price.
If you are considering a high-end washing machine to maintain the value of your home, I recommend opting for Bosch instead. Bosch offers reliable performance and quality, making it a better investment for your home.
Frigidaire: Frequent Repairs
While Frigidaire offers budget-friendly options, their washing machines often fall short in terms of durability and reliability. Many consumers report issues like leaks, poor spin cycles, and mechanical failures, leading to frequent repairs and a shorter machine lifespan.
If you're looking for a washing machine that offers long-term performance and reliability, it's worth investing in a more dependable brand. Frigidaire's cost-saving appeal is overshadowed by the potential for frequent breakdowns and repair hassles. This is simply not worth the price.
Maytag - Get The Older Units and Keep Them
An older Maytag washing machine was the greatest appliance ever made, according to my Dad, Doc Danielson. However, in today's world, they are not worth buying. The newer Maytag washing machine models have experienced quality control issues. Problems with electronic components and overall reliability have been reported, leading to higher repair costs and customer dissatisfaction.
For these reasons, we recommend looking at other brands that offer better reliability and that last longer.
Kenmore: Used to be Great
What was once my go-to brand is now something I recommend avoiding. Kenmore washing machines have seen a decline in reliability in recent years. With Sears' recent problems, sourcing parts for Kenmore products has become increasingly difficult, making repairs more challenging and costly.
I have owned different Kenmore washing machines that lasted years and years, but that was in the 1990s. Today, the quality and reliability of Kenmore washing machines have significantly declined, leading to frequent issues and higher repair costs. For these reasons, we suggest looking at more dependable brands for your washing machine needs.
Electrolux - Things To Pay Attention To!
Despite being a high-end brand, Electrolux washing machines have been known to suffer from reliability issues. In fact, if you have one, I recommend looking up common problems by your model number because these units have caused fires in homes before.
Common complaints include leaks, cooling failures, and poor customer service. The high cost of these machines does not always correlate with their performance and longevity.
For these reasons, it's wise to consider more reliable brands for your washing machine needs.
Whirlpool- The Land Of Many Brands
Whirlpool now owns many other brands, but it is typically a brand I do not recommend. Their warranty service providers are always very busy. The largest local appliance repair business does not have appointments available for weeks because there are so many repairs needed on Whirlpool appliances that are under one year old. This does not serve our community in any way.
Whirlpool's reputation has been affected by the frequent need for repairs, even on relatively new appliances. This high demand for service not only frustrates customers but also strains local repair services, leading to long wait times and inconvenience. For these reasons, we suggest considering other brands that offer better reliability and service support.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Washing Machine
1. Reliability and Durability
Choose brands known for their reliable and durable appliances. Brands with a reputation for longevity and minimal maintenance can save you time and money in the long run.
2. Availability of Parts
Ensure that the brand you choose has readily available replacement parts. This can make repairs easier and less costly.
3. Warranty and Support
Look for brands that offer comprehensive warranties and excellent customer support. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
4. Energy Efficiency
Consider energy-efficient appliances to save on utility bills and reduce your environmental footprint. Brands like Bosch and LG are known for their energy-efficient models.
5. Features and Technology
Modern washing machines come with a variety of features and smart technology. Choose brands that offer the features you need without compromising on reliability and ease of use.
Lets Make Sure the Washing Machine You Buy Lasts!
Selecting the right washing machine brand is crucial for ensuring long-term satisfaction and performance. By consulting with experienced technicians and considering factors such as reliability, availability of parts, and energy efficiency, you can make an informed decision. While brands like Speed Queen, LG, and Bosch are highly recommended, it’s wise to approach brands like Samsung, Frigidaire, and certain models of Maytag with caution.
When in doubt, seek advice from professionals like Doc Danielson Appliance Repair and Care to help you choose the best washing machine for your home. Give us a call anytime and we are happy to help you make a great choice for your home!
Need Help with Washer Maintenance?
Nightmare alert! You go into your laundry room, put clothes and soap in your washer, start the machine, and scurry off to start the next task. You walk by the laundry room and step in a puddle of water—your washer is leaking profusely! A simple phone call, text, chat, or email is just what the "Doc" ordered. At Doc Danielson Appliance Repair & Care, we can triage and find that leak, cauterize it (so to speak), and get you back up and doing laundry ASAP! Drop us a line—let's make laundry day fun again or at least not a pain in the a??!
Ready to Make the Right Choice?
Call Doc Danielson Appliance Repair and Care today at 972-890-5014 or email us at service@docdanielson.com. Let’s keep your appliances running smoothly and efficiently!
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