There have been a lot of myths cycling around the front load washer ever since it was first popularized. In fact, you’ve probably heard them before. “I hear the front load washers don’t use enough water so your clothes don’t even come out clean, yuck!” “Suzie told Meredith who told Sharon who told me that front load washers leak like crazy. I just can’t even.” But are the rumors true? Is it fair to give front load washers such a harsh judgment before hearing the other side? Isn’t Suzie known for being a total gossip?
Okay, it’s not actually Suzie’s fault. Truth be told, these rumors came from a real place and weren’t just started from the overzealous top-loaders. As with every new technology, front load washers had some initial issues when they first became big. Fortunately, with technological advancements and brilliant-minded innovators, manufacturing companies have been able to iron out these kinks. So let’s get some facts straight!
Myth: Front load washers are less efficient than top load washers Fact: False! Front loaders are actually incredibly energy and water efficient. According to Consumer Reports, a front-loader could use only 13 gallons of water to clean a load of laundry while a top-loader would require 25 gallons. 25! That’s nearly twice as much. Depending on washing preferences (hot vs. cold water), front load washers use 30-85% less energy than the typical top load washer. Additionally, using less water and having a higher spin speed means front load washers require less soap and less drying time than top-loaders.
Myth: Front load washers use less water so they don’t clean as well Fact: Also false! Front load washers do use less water but that is only because they require less. Resting on a horizontal-axis, the inside drum paddles lift and drop the clothes, creating a motion that flexes the fabric and forces a solution of water and detergent through the load. Since clothes don’t need to be freely suspended in water, the clothes only need enough water to be moistened.
Myth: Front load washers vibrate and “walk” more than top loaders Fact: Wrong again. This rumor stems from the fact that front load washers use higher spin cycles that cause the washer to vibrate or tilt back and forth which creates a walking motion. However, today’s front-loader is no more prone to vibration than a top-loader. Thanks to vibration control adaption technology, a front load washer actually gets quieter over its lifetime. Other technologies, including a built-in accelerometer and dual-ring ball-balancing, are able to keep the basket centered and leveled. So truthfully, most front load washers are generally quieter than most top-loaders.
Myth: Front load washers leak Fact: False, again. This myth originated from the when the rubber seal on the doors of some of the original front load washers was prone to leakage. Since the basket is horizontal, the seal on the door plays a major role in avoiding water from escaping the inner drum. However, today’s modern washer is designed specifically to avoid these leaks and has even gone through rigorous testing to prove it.
Now that we’ve done some serious myth-busting, shop our wide selection of front load washers and find the perfect washer for you!
