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This is Why American Washing Machines Are Top Loading!

Americans are known to have interesting choices for washing machines, some of which have drawn the attention of other countries who aren’t familiar with such washers.

They prefer big washing machines, mostly because of their homes’ spaciousness. And also because of their need to do laundry in shorter cycles.

So, in this article, we’ll examine the top-load washer, why they sell so well in the U.S., and so much more.

Americans use top-load washing machines to do their laundry in large bits per cycle. This machine provides a range of cycles for cleaning, which is known to be ergonomic, fashionable, and user-friendly. Also, in the U.S., safe familiarity is preferred over change. So, manufacturers stick to this washer to stay relevant in the market.

This article provides all the information you need on these popular washers; the top-loading and front-loading washing machines.

Why Do Americans Prefer Top Loading Washing Machines?

Why are American Washing Machines Top Loading?

Most Americans prefer top-loading washers because of their cleaning performance.

If you can look past pretreat stains or moderate dirt on your clothes, top-loading washers work just fine.

A study by Whirlpool Corporation found that roughly 75% of Americans use top-loading washing machines in their households.

Most manufacturers from other countries may wonder why American washing machines are so big. 

This is because they tend to have bigger homes that can accommodate the size of the top-load washer.

Similarly, there are more reasons Americans prefer top loaders to other washing machines (such as the front-loading washing machine). 

These reasons include the following:

Affordability

Americans generally prefer top-loading washers because they’re more basic and cheaper than most washers.

Although some might argue that front-loading washing machines are less expensive, manufacturers have recently started offering high-efficiency top loaders, which are still relatively cheaper than front loaders.

Above all, if you’re on a limited budget, you can search for an on-sale top-loading washer.

Yet, you can’t do the same with front loaders since they don’t have a big market for remodeled ones.

Availability of Different Models

Top-loading washers have been used for years; they’re always more models to choose from.

From Whirlpool to Maytag, two leading washing machine manufacturers, you can find a lot of top-load models available.

Also, if you’re looking for a low-cost model, they’re a range of budget-friendly options which will offer you luxury for less.

Easy to Fix

Top-load washers, unlike other washing machines, require less maintenance. You’re less likely to get your top-load washer repaired than any washing machine.

Top-load washing machines use more common parts and techniques. So it will be easier for you to get the parts and service needed for a fix.

In addition, service persons are conversant with top-loading washers, so you’ll have more maintenance personnel to assist you.

Reliability 

One great thing about washing machines is how much time and energy they save us. But the downside is that they tend to break down from time to time.

And this can be particularly frustrating, especially if you have little or no knowledge about common repairs.

However, with top load machines, which have been around for a long time, you’re more likely to get a tried and true mechanism, which increases their reliability. 

Finally, top-loading washing machines are a preferred choice in America because of the convenience of location in their spacious apartments. 

You can find washers in bathrooms in many parts of the U.S. or in separate utility spaces.

However, you can find the front-load washing machines in the kitchen.

And this is because in the UK (where front load washers are more common), washers are kept in the kitchen due to a lack of space in most British homes.

Pros and Cons of Top Loading Washing Machines

Although top loader washers are ideal, especially because of their efficiency, there are still some disadvantages to owning a top loader.

So, below are some of the pros and cons of owning a top-loading washing machine:

Pros

  • You won’t have to bend while loading your washer, which is very helpful for people with disabilities.
  • It’s ideal for big families, as you can add clothes to your wash mid-cycle or right after the cycle starts.
  • It’s easier for water to evaporate out of the cycle, and this prevents mildew or mold buildup. 
  • They are very affordable, especially top load washers which use agitators.
  • Top-load washer models have shorter wash cycles, despite their models.

Cons

  • Models with agitators tend to take up more space and may only be able to accommodate a few clothes per cycle.
  • The twisting process of the agitators is only sometimes efficient and so may not clean your clothes thoroughly. 
  • Top-load washers consume more water and energy.
  • They tend to be rough on fabrics (because of their agitators).
  • High-efficiency models may cause your clothes to tangle in the washer due to low water levels and the fast spinning of the agitators. 
  • Top-load washers (or appliances) have fewer installation options. Their installation process may be complex depending on the model.

Are There Front Loading Washing Machines in America?

Front-load washers are rare in America and are only sometimes an ideal choice. 

However, in some parts of America, like North America, front-load washing machine designs have matured, and people are finding that it’s becoming easier to use than in the past.

Although you could primarily locate front-load washers in washrooms and commercial areas, they began to gain popularity when U.S. regulations demanded more efficient appliances.

Now, you can find more advanced cycles in front-load washers, including:  

  • Steam and sanitizing cycles.
  • Multi-faceted dispensers
  • Sensors that track energy and water use.
  • A wide variety of load sizes.

Also, when front-load washers became available in the U.S., their sale was very successful even though they were more expensive than top-load washers.

However, in some surveys of purchases of front-load appliances, researchers found that they had more issues than a top-load machine.

A typical repair for a front-load washer could cost you more. And paying more money for a less reliable machine to save on water and energy led to a market decline for front loaders.

Are Top Load Machines Better Than Front Load Machines?

Front-load washers are more efficient than top-load washers. However, if a top-load washer fits your home better than the front load, it’s always best to go for the former.

The table below shows some of the distinguishing features of these popular washers.

Top Load WasherFront Load Washer 
They’re user-friendly. Mildew and mold tend to build up in the gasket over time.
They’re high efficiency and wash more quicker. They have a more flexible installation process. 
They’re rougher on the fabric of your clothesThey’re gentler on fabrics.
Water and energy consumption are relatively higher.They use less water and electricity, which is better for environmental sustainability. 
They take more time to dry out clothes due to their slower spin cycleTheir spin cycle is 33% faster than top loaders, which dries clothes faster 

Nevertheless, it’s always best to understand what you want before purchasing a washing machine. 

Although top-load and front-load washers have their distinguishing features, considering your needs before picking between either will help you make a perfect choice.

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