How Does a Front-Loading Washer Differ From a Top-Loading Washer?
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Placement
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Of all the modern appliances that seem to be necessary at home, a washer and dryer are near the top of the list. If space for another appliance is a concern, then a front-loading washer would be the way to go. While a front-loader is usually deeper than a top-loader machine, it can be stacked with a dryer to save a great deal of space. The area that used to take up two machines now is home to only one, making room for something else.
Performance
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The most important thing about a washer is how it performs. Front-loading washers have a round drum that houses the clothing. The drum spins and tumbles the clothes while water pours in on them. Top-loaders stand upright and have an agitator in the center of the machine, which takes up a considerable amount of room. Since front-loaders do not have the agitators, a greater amount of clothing can be washed at one time. Washing larger loads means that a fewer number of total loads needs to be washed, saving energy and money in the long run. Another benefit to the "toss method" of a front-loader vs. the agitator is that it saves wear and tear on the clothes, allowing them to look new for a longer period of time.
The spin cycle on a front-load washer is much faster than a top-load, which takes more water out of the clothing. This in turn creates less time in the dryer, saving money on drying time.
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Pricing
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When you first look at the price of a front-loading washer vs. a top-loading washer, you may immediately think that the price of the front-loader makes it less of a bargain. However, when you add up the savings that come with the front-loader it more than pays for itself in the long run. Larger load capacity makes for fewer loads and it uses several fewer gallons of water, both of which save money and natural resources. Front-loaders also have an energy-star rating, which means they score high in being energy efficient.
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Resources
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