A great little washer

We had been searching for a small capacity front-loading washer for some time. None of our local suppliers stocked them and I was unwilling to place a special order without first-hand knowledge of each machine's strengths and weaknesses. Whirlpool has a great overall reputation and, after having read many reviews, I was reassured when I found this washing machine on sale at a local store.

Having read about other people's problems with the machine's stability, vibration & excessive movement especially during the spin cycle, I was hesitant to install the machine upstairs on a floor that may not provide adequate support. We took the added precaution of reinforcing the floor under the machine with a second layer of 3/4" plywood and have experienced no problems with wobble, vibration or excessive movement even during the final spin cycle.

Our home is served by an artesian well and we are always cautious of exaggerated water consumption - this was one of the main reasons we were interested in buying a front-loading washer. This machine uses half the amount of water our old top-loader required and the clothes come out cleaner every time. The final spin cycle effectively removes excessive water from clothing, and air-drying time is halved over the previous machine. In fact we don't even use the extra-high spin as high does such a great job.

When we bought the machine we still had regular washing soap left and, as we could not find any biodegradable products in our local stores, we decided to use it up. We have reduced the amount used and have had no problems in the first months of operation.

One small quirk that concerned us was the long pause before the machine starts up. No idea why it works that way but several people have commented on the same strange function.

I would recommend this machine to anyone who does not need (or who can live without) the many optional cycles of a high-end machine. This machine is simple and it works quietly and efficiently.

Two years after buying this machine I decided to update this review. We are still very happy with the front loader - it continutes to work without problems and we would definitely buy this product again. We mostly use the 'whites' cycle on high spin & 'colours' on medium spin, however the 'hand wash' cycle is great for delicate woolens. At last, I no longer have to hand wash delicates and am confident putting them into the machine.

Most front loading machines tend to develop a mouldy smell if they are not wiped out properly after each wash. From day one we always wipe out the rubber gasket around the door, remove the washing powder/liquid drawer and leave the door ajar to ensure adequate air circulation. I anticipate this machine will continue to work well for us for years to come.

Now, three years later, we are still as pleased with the performance of our washing machine as we were at the outset.  We have had no problems at all, we continue to use bio-degradable soap for regular washing machines and wipe out the door gasket after every wash.