Top Load Vs. Comparison of front loading washing machines

When it comes to finalizing your laundry room designthere’s one important debate that needs to be addressed: do you want a top-loading or front-loading washing machine? At first glance it may seem like there isn’t much difference between the two; one loads clothes from the top, while the other loads from the front. But if your father were to take a look, you will notice that there is actually an important difference that sets them both apart.

So, which one will it be? A traditional top loader or a modern front loader? In this guide, we list these two options so you can make the right decision for your washing habits.

Design and functionality

Front loading washing machines

Front-loading washing machines have the opening at the front of the appliance instead of at the top, as top-loading washing machines do. To put on and take off your clothes in this style, you have to stoop to reach the door and it will open.

Aside from the design access to the front of the unit, this style also functions differently than a top loader. Front load washers are built with a horizontal drum that spins the clothes during each cycle.

Top loading washing machine

As the name suggests, top loaders have an opening on the top of the machine. There’s usually a door you lift to access the drum you drop your clothes into, meaning you don’t have to bend. You can easily get up to throw your clothes in it.

Compared to front-loading washing machines, top-loading washing machines have a so-called agitator in the center of the vertical drum that is used to create friction between the clothes during washing. This is what moves your items to clean them during the washing process.

Performance and efficiency

If efficiency is your main concern when it comes to a washing machine, then front-loading washing machines are your best options. Modern front-loading washing machines use energy and water more efficiently due to their construction. While top load washers rely on the agitator to clean the items, front load washers are strategically built with side paddles that lift and spin the clothes in the wash drum.

Because front loaders are more efficient, they can have a significant impact on your energy bill (in a good way) and the wear and tear on your clothes. Agitators in top load washing machines are often rough on clothes and can cause tears in clothes if clothes get stuck and thrown around during the process. Front loading washing machines have nothing in the drum, so the process is much gentler.

Capacity/Size Considerations

Top loaders usually outweigh front loaders when it comes to drum capacity. Because top loaders can spin to wash larger, bulkier items such as blankets and comforters, their drum sizes are usually larger than those of front loaders, which are intended primarily for everyday clothing. But as with all appliances, you can find different sizes within each style, so consider your normal load load to determine how big of a drum you need.

But apart from the drum size, the next important sizing factor to consider is the actual size of the washing machine. Washing machines aren’t small appliances to begin with, but the good news is that you have options for placing these appliances in your home, saving you space.

For example, front loaders can be stacked on top of others, while top loaders can be placed next to each other.

Costs and maintenance

Because of their advanced features and technologies, you can expect front-loading washers to have a higher initial cost than top-loading washers. And with these advanced features, you can also expect a higher maintenance bill.

If you’re in the habit of repairing broken appliances yourself, you should know that front-load washers are generally more difficult to repair than top-load washers. Front loading washing machines are more complex in construction and it takes more effort to find and replace these parts, or keep clean.

Here’s an overview of the common problems you can expect from both types of washing machines:

• Drum does not rotate: Usually this comes from an overloaded drum. Try taking off clothes to see if this helps. If not, your drain pump may be clogged.
• There are leaks: This is most likely the cause of a disconnected or worn hose or worn seals.
• Drum not filling: If your drum is not filling with water, there may be a blockage in the hose.

Ease of use and accessibility

The easiest type of washing machine to use and access, especially if you have mobility issues, is a top-loading washing machine. This type of washing machine does not require you to bend over and you can easily dump your clothes into it. The only time you will experience any discomfort is when you get clothes that have fallen to the bottom of the drum.

Where front loaders beat top loaders is newness in features and smart technology. Both types of washing machines feature a locking mechanism that keeps the door closed during the wash cycle, but you’ll find that front-loading washing machines offer additional capabilities such as smart technology features and extra wash cycles.

So if you are looking for a washing machine that offers a range of features, a front loader is the better choice. If you’re okay with a standard washing machine with basic features, top load is the way to go.

Durability and longevity

The last aspect to consider with a top load versus front load washing machine is of course the lifespan. After all, you don’t want to make an investment only to have to replace your device within a few years. Top loaders have an average lifespan of 15 years, while front loaders have 11 years due to the problems with mold growth.

In general, top load rings are the best when it comes to reliability. Because they are simpler in design and not as complex as front loaders, they last longer and are easier to replace if a part should ever fail.