Washing Machine Deals?

[lauraann]

My washing machine has quite working. With a family of five, I have to replace it soon. Any suggestions for where to get the best deal on a new one? Thanks in advance!

[GoErin]

Just a suggestion. Read fine print before just looking at price. My husband bought a front loader from Sears and the price was great. Then I had to pay 40$ for delivery and a 25$ "crating" charge. My old one ended up in my garage, they do not haul away. And they have an automated delivery scheduling system...a computerized voice calls you to tell you when it will be delivered. If that's not good for you, too bad! I was unsuccessful at getting ahold of a live person to change times.

The local appliance guy has free delivery and set up, will haul your old one away, no hidden fees, you can set up specific delivery window.

A week ago I bought a refrigerator. My local guy beat Sears price by a few bucks and I had it installed and set up the next day. And I didn't have to pay the city 40$ to haul mine away. So, I figure I saved 40 delivery, 25 crating, 40 haul away, 15 off sticker. One hundred bucks plus a lot of aggravation!


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[cata5]

You might check SEARS! They usually have some 0% or maybe delayed financing, sometimes free delivery and pick up (my pick up cost was $10), and sale prices. I bought the Maytag Neptune which was pricey ($1000 and probably never on sale, but I got the discontinued model), but the features are money saving. The tub is large and can accomodate a comforter. The machine uses 8 gallons of water compared to a whopping 40 in a top loader and you use about 1/5 of the amount of laundry detergent that a top loader requires. Think of the savings there!! (and for softener) They are supposed to last like 30 years. Because it is a front loader you get different results in the spin cycle...it is much gentler on your clothes...and is supposed to clean them better. Also, because the spin is more gentle I have been able to wash many clothes that I would normally wash by hand or even dry clean.

There is also another front loader that is cheaper than the neptune, but probably has many of the same benefits. I don't think that model was available when I bought mine.

Not to write a commercial or anything, but we are a family of 7 with tons of laundry and this machine is wonderful!! Take a look at one. I'm waiting for my dryer to conk out so I can buy the Maytag dryer, too!


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[cata5]

I guess you should also negotiate. You could probably get free delivery if they are not offering it. I have never heard of the crate charge, but it's been a few years since I bought an appliance from them.

I do think that local stores could give you great service and a good price. You will have to do some calling. I guess you should decide what you want and compare from there. Also, the Sears Kenmore brand is made by Whirlpool, I believe, so you don't think that Whirlpool would be a better choice just because it is a recognized brand.

I have come to believe that my washer is probably the most important appliance I own. I could even get along without my stove for longer with less hassle than getting along without my washer. It is an important investment!!

And yes, it is always good to ask if there are any hidden charges because that can sour a good deal.


GoErin- How do you like the front loader? Do you think they are better than top loaders or just different?


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[GoErin]

I love it. I originally got that style because of the low water usage. We are a family of five and because we have a septic system with only a 500 gallon tank, water usage is important.

Anyway, it not only cuts way down on water, it cust way down on soap usage (I use 1/4 to 1/3 as much) and spins so efficiently that I need way less time in the dryer. The gentle clothes like sweaters and tights show much less wear and tear. I would recommend it in a minute. I didn't get the Neptune, I got the lower level model, but it has plenty of features for me.

Cata, I think the moral of my story may be: Don't send your husband shopping, since he is not a DOD'er!

[cata5]

Oh, I can't believe I forgot to mention the shorter drying time! That saves so much time and MONEY! I bet it's not even half the drying time as when I used a top loading machine.

GoErin- Been there -on the husband issue! Mine is getting better, but he is not a frugal guy by any means. lol He's more of the "might as well" type. "Might as well get it now so we don't have to come back!"


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