And Ford850, I'm wondering if you meant to say to stay with top load or move to front load washer/dryer. I know I was blown away by how little water a front loader took to clean clothes by comparison to the old style top loader. I mean it was amazing. I thought the thing was broken because the water stopped so soon after it started to fill the washer. I strongly urge you to reconsider. JMHO.
It was just my attempt at humor.

When we replaced our old washer about 12 years ago, we intended to get a front load washer. When shopping (after the sticker shock wore off) we kept hearing the same "advantages" for top load washers... how they save you so much due to the small amount of water used and how they spin clothes so "dry". We couldn't decide on one since they all have different bells and whistles that we really didn't want. We finally met a salesman who was honest and asked us several questions up front:
1) Do you have well water? (yes)
2) Do you have a water softener? (yes)
2) Do you wash in hot, warm or cold water? (cold)
3) Do you rinse in hot warm or cold water? (cold)
4) What % of your clothes do you line dry? (20-30%)
He was quick to point out we would be wasting our money on a top load model, and instead showed us an extra large capacity top load, which has been a great washer.
I understand top load models are great for some people, but not for me (yet).
And I was more satisfied with my top load when I saw the front load reviews and the complaints about:
- having to use special detergent
- and having to run cycles to clean the washer
- and having to leave the door swinging open to prevent mold and mildew between loads
- and building or buying a base so you can access the front load easier. (Some of the bases sell for more than what I paid for my HD top load washer)
But when my current washer croaks, I'll no doubt check out the front load style again.
