General

Top 3 Classic Washing Machine Brands | History | Maintenance

It is important for people to know and understand different brands in the market to pick the right product. Below mentioned are some of the brands, who offer the best front loading washing machines without compromising on the quality.

Roper Washing Machines

Roper has a Super Capacity Washer model with seven cycles, three temperatures, and three water levels. These appliances are manufactured by the Whirlpool Corporation and are competitively priced when compared to others in the same category.

Roper’s History

Roper’s history begins in 1874 when it began manufacturing kerosene stoves. From then, Roper grew to be a Fortune 500 company producing a huge range of affordable home appliances. About a century later it was taken over by the Whirlpool Corporation who now continues to make the Roper brand of washing machines. The North American operation for Roper is based in Canada.

Special Features of Roper Washing Machines

Roper washing machines are well known for their sturdy build and long lasting performance. They come with a range of possible wash options, including variable water levels that help in water conservation. The liberal drum sizes result in large capacity washers that allow for doing large loads, which saves energy, time and water.

Maintenance of Roper Washing Machines

The Whirlpool Corporation provides some maintenance instructions for Roper washing machines.

Fill hoses: The fill hoses that conduct water to the machine need to be replaced periodically or when they show bulges and bare spots. They need to be replaced every five years, regardless.

Periods of non-use: the washing machine is not going to be used for a considerable period of time, Whirlpool advises turning off the tap to avoid leaks from excess water pressure in an unsupervised machine.

Mold: To avoid mold, ensure that the machine does not stay wet in warm, damp, or humid conditions. Stagnant water caused by leaks may, over time, cause mildew and unpleasant odors, especially in enclosed spaces.

Energy Efficiency and Roper Washing Machines

The Roper brand offers a number of energy efficient appliances; however, its single washing machine is not an energy rated product.

Roper’s Warranty

Whirlpool offers a one-year warranty including parts and labor charges for their washing machine. They also provide toll-free customer service assistance to ensure customers get the best advice in the event repairs are required.

Zanussi Washing Machines

Zanussi washing machines come in a convenient range of designs to suit single users as well as large families. They are now manufactured by Electrolux and are competitively priced. The Zanussi brand of appliances is available in the United Kingdom and other European countries.

Zanussi History

The Zanussi brand of household appliances was the brainchild of Antonio Zanussi, who began his career fixing stoves and similar apparatus in Pordenone, Italy, in 1916. His enthusiastic entrepreneurship soon saw the inauguration of Officina Fumisteria Antonio Zanussi, a thirty square meter workspace with 3 employees engaged in the production of kitchen ranges. By the 1960s, the company was manufacturing a variety of commercial and domestic appliances including washing machines. In 1984, the Zanussi brand merged with Electrolux and became part of the larger European domestic appliances market.

Special Features of Zanussi Washing Machines

Zanussi washing machines are manufactured to encompass a range of consumer requirements, and therefore, come with capacities ranging from a compact 3kg to a massive 7kg wash load. The different models also come with various programming options to suit different needs. Models such as the ZWF16581W automatically figure out the type of fabric and its most appropriate wash cycle. It also has a Night Wash program which operates at a very low noise level making it ideal for nighttime usage. The louder spin cycle may be turned on the next morning to complete the wash. A recent innovation is the Jet System which gives clothes a power shower that washes out every last vestige of detergent.

Maintenance of Zanussi Washing Machines

Electrolux recommends preventative maintenance available through local sales representatives to ensure a long life for appliances. They also suggest that appliance owners regularly check components such as hoses for signs of wear and tear. If replaced when necessary, rather than waiting until a problem occurs, some leaks and flooding may be avoided.

Zanussi washing machines are repaired and maintained by the Service Force in the UK. Elsewhere consumers can contact the local Electrolux dealer for maintenance, repairs, and spare parts. Appliance manuals are available online at the Zanussi website.

Zanussi Warranty

All Zanussi washing machines come with a standard Electrolux limited warranty of 1 year.

Fisher & Paykel

Fisher & Paykel offers EcoSmart and AquaSmart top load washing machines with capacities from 3.7 to 4.2 cu ft. Most units are white in color and qualify for the highest level (tier 3) of the Super Efficient Home Appliance Initiative.

History of Fisher & Paykel

When Fisher & Paykel first began manufacturing products in 1930, it did so under license to other companies. In an effort to increase efficiency, the company turned to technology and as a result was the first to commercialize insulated polyurethane foam refrigerators.

In 1960 Fisher & Paykel saw the need to produce short runs of its models using common machinery. This was another breakthrough that opened up export opportunities.

In 1980 Fisher & Paykel introduced the first appliance using Brushless Direct Current Motors. Based on that technology their leading product, the SmartDrive clothes washer, was developed.

Fisher & Paykel Washing Machines Features

Some of the features of the Fisher & Paykel washing machines include:

  • 330, 670, 1000rpm spin speeds
  • Adjustable alert beeps
  • Auto out-of-balance correction
  • Lint disposal
  • Bleach option
  • Controlled cold function at 68° Fahrenheit (20° Celcius)
  • Load sensing which automatically sets the correct wash action
  • Delayed start capability

Fisher & Paykel Washing Machines Maintenance

  • To keep your machine in good working order, the following points are recommended:
  • Ensure faucets are turned off after the cycle to reduce flooding due to a hose burst
  • Unplug the washer when not in use and when cleaning the machine
  • Use only a damp cloth to wipe surfaces and clean the machine exterior
  • Remove the washer lid to allow more efficient cleaning
  • The detergent dispenser should be cleaned with a damp cloth as needed, avoiding the use of harsh chemicals.

Fisher & Paykel’s Warranty Information

Fisher & Paykel offers a one-year manufacturer’s warranty on its washing machines.