This week we're going to do it
Battle Royale style!
Front load washers -Vs- Top load washers
Okay 1st and foremost there are 2 types of top load washer
Your conventional top loader, and the new style HE top loader.
(wait, we DO have more than 2 combatants.)
HE Simply stands for High Efficiency.
All front load washers are HE by design. All top load washers are not HE
But we'll get into that a little later.
Here's the break down for front load washers:
1. Loading: Opens from the front, allowing you to load and unload laundry through a door on the front panel.
2. Efficiency: Much more energy efficient and uses less water compared to conventional top-load washers.
Less water? Can you be more specific? I'm glad you asked.
Front load washer: 7 gallons
HE top load washer: 13 gallons
Conventional top load washer: 38 gallons
3. Cleaning Performance: Provides better cleaning due to the drum being horizontal with tumbling action.
4. Space-saving: Most units can be stackable with a dryer. Which is great for smaller laundry rooms.
4. Price: Much more expensive upfront compared to conventional top-load washers.
5. Maintenance: Requires regular cleaning. To prevent mold and odors.
(If you're a fan of mine, you should know I have tips for cleaning the front load washer.)
Here's the break down for conventional top Load Washer:
1. Loading: Opens from the top, where you load and unload laundry over the top of the machine.
2. Affordability: Much less expensive and available in a wide range of styles and prices.
3. Agitator: Conventional top load models have an agitator (a central post) for more vigorous cleaning.
Which can put more wear and tear on clothing over time. The agitator also takes up room causing smaller load sizes.
4. Accessibility: Easier to add forgotten items mid-cycle (in most cases.) Some models have lid locks.
5. Size: as mentioned above. The conventional top load models have an agitator. Which by design limits load size.
6. Water Usage: Uses alot more water and is less energy efficient compared to front load washers, and HE top load washers.
Here's the break down for HE top load washers:
You'll notice in the video (below) there is no agitator. Also on the console you'll see a "Clean washer with Afresh." setting on the machine. if the video wont play click the Youtube icon in the video player, or use this link: https://youtu.be/whMjmciT7ZY?si=x19jF3eh40O89cHU
running this cycle monthly will reduce mold and odors. But using Afresh isn't the only option. check back next week for money saving tips for cleaning and de-odorizing HE front, and HE top load washers.
Pros:
1. Energy efficient: Uses significantly less water and electricity, leading to lower utility bills.
2. Water savings: Sensors determine the precise amount of water needed for each load, reducing waste.
3. Gentle on clothes: Innovative drum designs and the absence of an agitator minimizes wear and tear on clothing.
4. Large drum capacity: Large families have lots of laundry. Again no agitator means more clothes per load, and Did you know Grandma's comforter will fit in there.
5.Faster spin speeds: Extracts more water, reducing drying time and energy waste.
Cons:
1. Much higher upfront cost: HE top load washers are more expensive.
2. Learning curve: Users may need time to adjust to different settings and options.
3. Longer wash cycles: Wash cycles can be longer than traditional washers.
4.Potential for mold and odors: Requires regular cleaning and maintenance to prevent mold and mildew.
5. Specific detergent: Requires high-efficiency detergents; regular detergents do cause issues.
6. Vibration and noise: Some models with high spin speeds may generate more noise and vibration.
A concrete floor is highly recommended for HE top and front load washers.
It all comes down to your needs. a single person that does laundry once or twice a week. Doesn't need an expensive HE washer that can handle large loads. ie; Grandma's comforter.
An older person, or someone with back problems. Doesn't want to be bending over loading and unloading clothes into a front load washer.
I hope this break down guide helps you make an informed decision.
Have a great week and I'll see you next time.
