Front Loading verses Top Loading Washing Machines

Introduction: If you are planning to buy a new washing machine you probably want to know which one is the best machine on the market. There are basically just two different types to choose from; the top loading washing machine and the front loading washing machine. There is a large difference between these machines. You should get familiar with these differences before you make your choice.

Prior to the streamlining of manufacturing processes and consolidation of manufacturers, there were approximately thirty five different companies that manufactured washing machines. Now there are less than a dozen. Many of them advertise their product as the best. Buyers often get confused as to which is the best washing machine to buy, a front loaded washing machine or a top loader.

Most manufacturers make outstanding machines so the easiest way to decide is to choose a model that is reliable, easy to install and user friendly. Consumer Report is a good place to get data on washing machines. You should select a machine that uses less water, less detergent, and is energy efficient.

Types of Washing Machine:

There are two types of washing machines available on the market:

·       Semi Automatic Washing Machine: These machines are top loading machines which mean that you have to load all the clothes to be washed from the top.

·       Fully Automatic Washing Machine: These machines can be top loading or front loading.

A top loading washing machine is one that is opened from the top. All the dirty clothes are put in the machine from the top and it is easy to add more clothes in the middle of a wash cycle. These washing machines come in portable models and permanently installed models. Hooking them up to a water and power supply is quite easy.  The portable models simply hook to a sink spigot.  These washers take less time to clean clothes and consume less water. They are also less expensive as compared to front loading washing machines. However, they consume a little more electricity.

Front loading washing machines are those that are loaded from the front. They consume less water and are energy efficient. They use a tumble wash action that does a better washing job and clean clothes better but take more time to complete a cycle. They require permanent plumbing for water supply. They are fixed in one place and are not considered portable. All front loading machines are fully automatic and are gentler on the clothes than a top loading machine. The machine door cannot be opened during the wash cycle. They are more expensive than top loading machines.

Compare Front Load Loading Vs Top Loading Washing Machines:

Advantages of the Front Loading Washing Machine:

·       Front load washing machines need less water than top loading washing machine.

·       They cause less wear and tear on cloths during washing cycle.

Disadvantages of the Front Loading Washing Machine:

·       You have to bend down to put the cloths in. This may not be good for elderly people.

·       They take more time to wash clothes.

·       They wash clothes well with most quality washing powder or detergents.

Advantages of Top Loading Washing Machine:

·       They take less time to wash.

·       They are easier to load.

·       These machines work well with less powerful washing powder or detergents.

Disadvantages of Top Loading Washing Machine:

·       They cause more wear and tear to clothes. Select the best suitable settings from the control panel of the washing machine to avoid wear on clothes.

·       They use a lot of water.

·       They are noisier.

Before purchasing a washing machine check with Consumer Report for the differences in quality ratings and then select the machine that works best for you.

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