What's this? This score is based primarily on washing ability, efficiency, capacity, and noise. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Price range:
$849.00 - $1,130.99
Summary:This Whirlpool Front-loader washing machine has • 2011 Energy Star qualification • Auto temp. control • Auto detergent dispenser • Auto fabric softener dispenser • End of cycle signal • Rotary dial • Push button • Stainless-steel tub • Stackable • Manufacturer recommends low-sudsing detergent. • Comes with a 1 year warranty.
The Whirlpool Duet Steam WFW9550W[W] is part of the washing machine
test program at Consumer Reports. In our lab tests, front-loading washing machine
models like the Duet Steam WFW9550W[W] are rated on multiple criteria, such as those listed below.
Washing performance:
This reflects the degree of color change to swatches of fabric that were included in an 8-pound and maximum capacity test load of mixed cotton items using the machines' most aggressive normal cycle. (We do not use special cycle or option buttons.)
Energy efficiency:
This score is based on the energy needed to heat the water for 8-pound and maximum loads using a warm wash and cold rinse. We consider both gas and electric water heaters, and include electricity needed to run the washer and energy needed for drying. Washers that extract more water are scored higher.
Water efficiency:
This score denotes how much water it took to wash our 8-pound load and each machine's maximum load. On models that didn't set the fill level automatically, we used the lowest fill setting that sufficed for the 8-pound load. We then calculated water used per pound of clothing.
About This Brand
As with Kenmore, Whirlpool has a number of lines: Whirlpool Duet HT, Whirlpool Duet Steam, Whirlpool Duet Sport HT, and Whirlpool Duet Sport. In the coming year, Whirlpool will be promoting and advancing the use of steam on more of its models across the line. Prices range from $800 to $1,600. Whirlpool washers are known for the wide range of model choices and the variety of features on those machines.
Features & Specs - Whirlpool Duet Steam WFW9550W[W]
Energy star The federal Energy Star program, administered by U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, identifies a wide range of home appliances that use 10-50% less energy and water than standard models. These appliances can help you use less energy at home and save money on your utility bills.
Energy star
Yes
Stainless-steel tub Tubs constructed of stainless steel are likely to be more durable than plastic or porcelain, and they allow for higher spin speeds. Plastic is the next most durable choice.
Stainless-steel tub
Yes
Auto temp. control This feature automatically mixes hot and cold water to reach the chosen wash temperature (which differs on various makes of washers). It's a good way to compensate for normal variations in tap-water temperature and prevents problems caused by water that's too cold, which keeps detergent from working properly.
Auto temp. control
Yes
Auto bleach dispenser Automatic Bleach dispenser releases the bleach at the proper point in the cycle, giving the detergent additives sufficient time to work.
The circuit board failed immediatly after 3 months. Then it stopped working alltogether. No one seemed able to fix it. It is a piece of junk!!!
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By Angie
from Ottawa CA.
1.0
Piece of c..p
11/4/2012
Pros
Cons
Noisy
Shakes/Moves
Best Uses
Comment:
Bought this machine at SEARS kept it for two weeks and send it back.<br />Impossible to use high spin cycle with a medium load or any load because of the shaking.<br />In medium spin cycle the machine would stop spinning because of the shaking then try to rebalance<br />the load. it does it number of time during the washing cycle making a 55 minute cycle sometime last<br />as long as 1 1/2 hour.<br />I spent hours trying to level it,trying different load size to no avail, after 10 days the darn thing<br />moved 6 inches from the original position.<br />I must point out that that because of my job I am very knowledgeable in levelling and installing<br />appliances.<br />Do not consider buying this c..p
How long have you owned it:
A month or less
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
By Tony
from Helena, Mt.
1.0
Watch out for Whirpool and this machine
9/25/2012
Pros
Cons
Breaks Down
Noisy
Best Uses
Everyday Clothes
Comment:
We purchased this machine last year and within 3 weeks the Master Controller board blew out. It was under warranty so they replaced the machine with another one -- same model. Then 13 months later the whole circuitry in the new machine malfunctioned, rendering it useless. Repair estimates were over $600. Same problem with both machines -- faulty circuitry and electronics. We contacted Whirlpool Customer Service who informed us they would do nothing to assist us in terms of providing a significant break on repairs or replacing the machine because it was beyond warranty. Whirlpool basically refused to stand by their product. We are out $900 in one year and are now faced with buying a new machine; we're going with LG. Whirlpool is no longer the great and dependable American company it once was. It refuses to back up its products and it fails to serve its customers.
How long have you owned it:
More than six months
Bottom Line
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
Other User Reviews
1.0
(based on 1 reviews)
By
laurenwolf
User has 3 Years of experience with this product
1.0
Whirlpool Duet front loading washing machine not reliable nor is customer service
02/03/2013
Strength
Weakness
Ripped our clothing; very loud; customer service knows about these problems but does not stand behind its product.
Weve owned the Whirlpool washing machine for just under three years. Initially performance was average. It didnt take long, however, for problems to start happening: first the noise-very loud, spinning out of balance regardless of the size of the load. The next problem is what I call the end. It started to rip our clothing. Not on seams-our clothing came out looking like Swiss cheese. My husband now has only 3 pairs of underwear left-I am getting ready to head out to the laundromat. My appliance repairman, who is certified and very reliable, said they could repair it but the cost would most likely equal or exceed the cost of a new machine. I contacted Whirlpool customer service. They offered me a new drum at a 50% discount. Tell me. Should this happen after just 3 years? My GE profile lasted almost 12 years, and was replaced more for efficiency than anything else. My search of others experiencing this problem indicated that this is not a lone problem. Funny, I cant wear my clothing to work looking like this. The machine probably destroyed $1,000 worth of clothing, not to mention towels, bedding. I am so unhappy with both the machine and the company I would also recommend staying away from Maytag, owned by the same company.